Tim Gunn: The Natty Professor

Gunn (Tim Gunn's Fashion Bible) shifts from providing fashion commentary to making an appealing and passionate paean to teaching and mentoring. Along with glimpses behind the scenes of his various reality TV series, including "Project Runway" and "Under the Gunn," Gunn offers separate sections dedicated to the five key factors he feels define outstanding educators: truth-telling, empathy, asking, cheerleading, and hoping for the best%E2%80%94not coincidentally, the acronym is "teach." He skillfully explores each topic, drawing examples from his own career as an educator at Parsons School of Design, his therapy sessions, and his experiences as both a student and teacher. Gunn also liberally sprinkles in other people's tales of teachers who have profoundly influenced their lives. He frequently imparts "life assignments," where he challenges readers to apply the lessons to themselves. For fun, Gunn includes a chapter on notable films that deal with teaching and learning. His empathetic tone encourages educators and students alike to listen to his sensible, time-tested advice, and his frank advice makes clear that he's learned many of the lessons he's imparting through tough trial and error. Gunn's unique view of the world and genuine desire to help others are apparent on every page of this must-read. (Mar.)