Name: Susan Palzer
School: Paterson, NJ

 

How do you use Shmoop?

Shmoop is my go-to site for supplemental information on literature in order to provide in-depth information on a lighter note. Teaching in an urban high school (ever see Lean on Me?—that's my school) presents many challenges for resources for my kids. They love the videos that present brief yet thorough summaries of novels and plays we are about to read. I also use Shmoop for SAT and PSAT prep which these kids so sorely require. Love you guys. Thanks, Shmoop!

"We all need somebody to lean on."

What is the coolest experience you've had using Shmoop?

The coolest experience I've had using Shmoop was when one of my most challenged students came to me on a Monday morning expressively relating an experience he had over that weekend when he turned to Shmoop for help with Catcher in the Rye and told me how he now understood Holden's obsession with the Central Park ducks. He was able to manage to explain his interpretation of it, based on the help he got from Shmoop. It was a very emotional moment for me.

Aw, this is emotional for us, too.

If you could read only three books for the rest of your life, which would you choose?

My three books would be To Kill A Mockingbird, The Catcher in the Rye, and Angela's Ashes.

Solid, solid, and solid.

What song do you know all the lyrics to?

I know all the lyrics to all Beatles songs (ask my kids; we have Kanye vs. the Beatles battles at least twice a week!).

Best wrong answer you've ever seen on a test?

"Answers may vary."

Well, students' answers certainly tend to.

Anything else to add?

I just want to thank you for acknowledging how important and valuable teachers are.

Any time, Susan. We love teachers.

 Do you know a Shmooperstar educator who should be featured on Shmoop? Have them apply. Or, you know, nominate yourself.