First, does it surprise anyone else that Levine even had a gun? For some reason it doesn't fit the picture I have of him...with his exotic birds and fancy dinner parties. I think he fancied himself the "gentleman of the estate". Just a bit curious.
I've also wondered what was done concerning Gajdusek's work when his proclivities were made known. I've yet to read much at all about his many "adopted" sons who supposedly went on to great success. He studied the disease kuru, and I believe his work was groundbreaking. He just had to spoil it all and take a little sidetrack over towards pedophilia along the way.
Lastly, I sent an email to our high school's vice principal and the director of special ed. I wanted to make certain that they are aware of these issues so they can check their libraries. I think it's an excellent idea to place a caveat inside the cover of his books. I suggested that in my email.
As a mother of a number of different learners, I would have to agree that Levine's communication with parents was his strongest suit. His anecdotes and light-hearted way of approaching learning were enticing. Isn't that strange as it seems not to fit the man who has been unmasked. But if you ever get a chance to look at his books or even read some of his articles on the web, you'll see what I mean. Please remember that his words of encouragement came in a dark time. Educators were giving up on "crack babies", those with MBD (minimal brain damage), and children who were on the spectrum. Just the very phrase "different learner" gave us hope.
But that was then and this is now. The veil has been parted and his work is forever tainted, in my eyes.
If anyone reads this thread who has a connection with special ed or even has the time to talk to the local librarian, I feel it's worth a heads up.
