Comments
The reader enters Miss Oliver's with the first word. Stephen Davenport's novel is a fascinating look at not only the inner workings of a private girls' school, but also the multiple layers of human motivation. Mr. Davenport deftly invites us to care about his characters as we learn what they think, what they do, and then very cleverly, how others are responding to that thinking and doing. Mr. Davenport writes with integrity as he develops his characters. It seemed clear that he cares deeply for his characters as they struggle through the changes at Miss Oliver's. I loved the way the novel illuminates the assumptions these characters make and how this affects their actions and intentions. It was a fun and fascinating read. As a former trustee of a private (non-boarding) school, I am somewhat familiar with school challenges. And yet, I felt I entered a whole new world in this book. Couldn't put it down.
C. Wood
I first saw "Saving Miss Oliver's" in the Edgartown library - couldn't resist the cover. The note in it from the previous reader: 'Started this marvelous book at 5pm; finished it a 4am.'Then I read it and have now ordered eight copies!Everyone in and out of education would enjoy this book. Thank you for writing "Saving Miss Oliver's.
-- Mari Harman, Edgartown, MA
--- Davenport does an excellent job of weaving the lessons of organizational development, leadership and change into a fictional story where the reader cares about the characters, and can actually relate to and sympathize with each of their situations.
How unique it is to find such lessons in a novel, let alone a novel so well crafted that the reader walks away inspired to be a better manager, teacher, student and leader.
-- Barbara Hines, Book Review editor, QUILL AND SCROLL, Howard University
From the very first paragraphs, "Saving Miss Oliver's" is an engaging novel and is very highly recommended to all general fiction readers, particularly those intrigued by the inter-political struggle of modern private and preparatory school systems.
-- The Midwest Book Review,
This first novel is a winner. It is spelled out on the cover -"For Everyone Who Has Ever Loved a School"- and Stephen Davenport's first novel, "Saving Miss Oliver's" does not disappoint. The plot is terrific, the characters come alive under Davenport's pen. Having been part of a university campus for several years, I found the book rang so true I couldn't put it down.
-- Joyce Laabs, Book Review Editor, The Lakeland Times
My copy of SAVING MISS OLIVERS arived a few hours before we set sail for Hawaii, a long awaited holiday. I replaced THE WORLD IS FLAT with it and, once begun, I couldn't put it down. It was as if the novel was a wire attached to my brain, my memories, my very soul.
-- Stephen Waters, Deering, N.H.
Please send me 100 brochures for this terrific book. We have run out!
-- David Mallery, Philaderlphia, PA
I finished SAVING MISS OLIVER's in about two days, because I couldn't stop reading it. Although Davenport clearly knows and understands the world of schools, it is even more clear that he understands the problems that well intentioned humans have in interacting with each other. There were no villains or heroes, just realistic people who get a little messed up trying to do the right thing.
-- Grace Quam, Black Mountain, NC
I loved SAVING MISS OLIVER'S, and I could not put it down. Every now and then, I would have to stop and think of various times and situations during my own teaching career. I am happy to say that I have known several heroes like Fred Kindler. I will share this book with others who will find it meaningful. I send praise and admiration to Stephen Davenport.
-- Betty O'Regan, Arden, DE
This is a wonderful novel, full of humor, warmth and wisdom, with a well-paced, intricate plot. Stephen Davenport not only knows the world of independent schools inside and out, he understands the complexities and contradictions of the human heart.
-- Linda Lancione Moyer
I thought this was a wonderfully written book, couldn't put it down. Davenport really understands human character and the difficulties it can get us into when we make assumptions!
-- Karen, Berkeley, California
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