During the first days of school the most important thing we teachers must do is bond with our students. On page 12, Routman lists eleven items that we should think about in creating a relationship with our class. I challenge each of us to post that list in a prominent place and review it regularly, especially on those difficult days when we all seem to be getting on each other's nerves. Routman reminds us that we need to share a mutual respect in our classrooms, and take the time to really get to know each other and value each member of the class as a contributing citizen. One way to do this is by sharing "Me Boxes" on the first days of school. We start to share the stories of our lives and begin to build trust and respect that will support everything we do in the classroom. My favorite quote from this chapter is on page 22, when Routman says, "If we want our students to be excited about learning, they need to have teachers who relish learning, who are passionate about reading and other interests, and who find the classroom an inspiring and thrilling place to be." Doesn't that just make you want to go out and make a difference in a child's life?