"Zing! is a wonderful book that encourages others to be creative by sharing what has worked for Pat Mora in all of her creative efforts."
—Camila A. Alire, Dean Emeritus
University of New Mexico

"In a series of letters to teachers written with her signature poetic grace, Pat Mora gently reminds us of the potential in ourselves and our students."
—Lee Galda, Professor
University of Minnesota

"In this era of mandates, accountability and adherence to canned curricula, Mora reminds us that great educators are fueled by passion and creativity."
—Gary Bloom, Superintendent
Santa Cruz City Schools, Soquel, CA

Cultivate your own creativity and the creative potential of all your students!

Zing! Seven Creativity Practices for Educators and Students is a beautifully written guide that offers seven powerful practices for personal creativity and professional inventiveness. For each of the seven practices, author Pat Mora proposes seven symbols and presents parallel exercises for teachers and students. Evocatively written in the form of letters to teachers and librarians, this book:

• Helps educators access their creative selves and, in the process, become better teachers
• Nurtures students in expressing themselves through writing and other creative pursuits
• Includes activities at the end of each chapter

This moving and inspirational volume serves as a reminder that inventive teaching is truly an art form that enriches lives and transforms teachers and students.

You can watch Pat Mora speak about honoring educators, the importance of reflection, and writing letters to educators all as ways to improve teaching practice through creativity.


Pat Mora was named one of the "Fifty Most Inspiring Authors in the World" by Poets & Writers magazine. Click here to see the full list.

Written by a prominent author of books for children and adults, Zing! Seven Creativity Practices for Educators and Students was designed to help teachers:

• Access their creative selves and, in the process, become better teachers.
• Nurture students to express themselves through writing and other creative pursuits.
• Value their students' and families' unique backgrounds.
• Set high expectations for every student