This is an account of a teacher and her class as they undertake a life changing odyssey toward understanding and racial tolerance. Shocked by the teenage violence she witnessed during the Rodney King riots in Los Angeles, Erin Gruwell became a teacher at a high school rampant with hostility and racial intolerance. For many of these students - whose ranks included substance abusers, gang members, the homeless, and victims of abuse. Teacher Guide available; please contact the Media Center via email to request a copy to be sent with your order. (media@e2ccb.org).