"In Against the Odds, Janine Bempechat shines a spotlight on the ways in which parents affect their children's motivation to achieve in school. But, unlike previous work that disparages parents of low-achieving students?particularly those from low-income or ethnic minority backgrounds?Bempechat focuses on families whose children are succeeding, often despite poverty, racism, and inadequate schools. Written in an engaging, accessible style, Against the Odds is a valuable resource for all teachers, parents, and scholars interested in how families can promote children's achievement in school." --Susan D. Holloway, adjunct professor of education, Department of Education, University of California, Berkeley

"Bempechat's well-written book takes a fresh look at vital questions about the academic achievement of minority children. Her examination of academically successful children within several different ?at-risk' ethnic groups yields unconventional and original insights about how children are socialized for schooling. A valuable contribution to the literature on achievement and motivation in multiethnic nations!" --Herbert P. Ginsburg, Jacob H. Schiff Foundation professor of psychology and education, Teachers College, Columbia University

"Against the Odds is a wise and practical blAnd of research and experience written to be understood by teachers and parents. Janine Bempechat has written a book we all need to read, one that will stretch us in nurturing the development of ?at risk' children." --Sister Ann Dominic Roach, superintAndent of schools, Archdiocese of Boston