Each One Must Shine - by Alan Leslie Cockerill (Paperback)

About the Book

Each One Must Shine is an account of the life and work of Vasily Sukhomlinsky (1918-1970), one of the most influential educators of the twentieth century. Sukhomlinsky's writings inspired millions of Soviet school teachers, and continue to inspire educators in Russia, Ukraine, and China, where he is one of the most influential foreign educators.

Book Synopsis

Each One Must Shine is an account of the life and work of Vasily Sukhomlinsky (1918-1970), one of the most influential educators of the twentieth century. Sukhomlinsky's writings inspired millions of Soviet school teachers, and continue to inspire educators in Russia, Ukraine, and China, where he is one of the most influential foreign educators. Sukhomlinsky's idealistic vision of human development and his deep love for children led him to develop a holistic system of education that emphasised the moral and aesthetic dimensions of a child's development as well as the physical, intellectual and vocational. He was the principal of a rural school in Pavlysh, in central Ukraine, for twenty-two years, and wrote about his experience in numerous books and articles. His school was visited by thousands of educators from the length and breadth of the Soviet Union and beyond, and his books have been read by millions. Each One Must Shine is the first major study to present Sukhomlinsky's legacy to an English-speaking audience. It is addressed to parents and educators, as well as specialists in the field.

Review Quotes

Alan Cockerill's book on Ukrainian educator, Vasily Sukhomlinsky, is a must read for any teacher interested in the humanist tradition in education. Dr. Cockerill offers a multi-faceted look at this educator and his philosophy. He provides critical biographical information as well as an insightful historical perspective to enable the reader to gain a better grasp of this outstanding educator. Dr. Cockerill portrays Sukhomlinsky as a teacher, who understood the complexities and variables in the educational process; Sukhomlinsky was a major innovator in recognizing the role of neuroscience, health, field trips, parental guidance, and working together in each child's development. Dr. Cockerill's book is a major contribution to international education, and brings to light the teachings of a unique educator. I cannot recommend this book too highly. Robert M. Weiss, translator of an adapted version of Sukhomlinsky's I Give my Heart to Children.

This book is a revelation to all those of us who saw the communist period in Russia as all about the repression of political freedom and independent thought. It shows that there were progressive thinkers who were more idealistic and willing to take action to model a different way of educating children.
Sukhomlinsky is brought to life by Alan Cockerill who has produced a very readable but thorough study of this neglected progressive educator from Russia. He writes about the importance of an education based on positive values including the idea of service to the community.