"Inspired by his own travels, screenwriter and author LaPoma's narrative is raw and edgy, effectively anchored by two protagonists whose brio and "same sense of adventure" keep the story alive . . . Entertaining and authentic look at the troubled American educational system, courtesy of two men propelled by perseverance and adventuresome spirits."

--Kirkus Reviews, Recommended Review

"Should be required reading for anyone who is considering or has ever considered teaching as a career . . . most highly recommended."

--Jack Magnus, Readers' Favorite

"Not a read for prudes, but for those with an open heart, mind and admiration of satire. Jonathan LaPoma has adeptly captured the darker sides of teaching in Miami public schools and also experiencing the high (in all senses of that word) life in local bars and beaches. His raw, honest and rhythmic voice kept me going to the very end. I taught in inner city schools for over twenty years and I'm sorry to say that I know many of the stories he tells are not entirely fiction."

--Jill G. Hall, author of The Black Velvet Coat and The Silver Shoes

"Incredibly artistic . . . The vast majority of college grads will relate with themes of alienation, addiction, and misguided hopes . . . Filled with drama and drugs, this novel is raw and endearing. It teeters on the edge of obscene, but really stays true to the life of an early 20-year old, amidst the drama and guise of self-discovery. Instead of idealizing public schools or idolizing functional drug addicts, it just lays out the truth."

--San Francisco Book Review

"Not for the faint of heart, Developing Minds will either have you furiously flipping the pages or fearfully enrolling your kids in home school."

--Will's Weekend Wrap-Up, NoiseTrade

"Poignant, engaging . . . a frighteningly accurate depiction of inner-city schools . . . a full-bodied work of fiction that will ring true with both students and teachers and provide a point of hope in an industry that has become increasingly profit-minded and complex."

--Red City Review

"Developing Minds is a raunchy, yet captivating story of two best friends, one gay, one not, who decide to spend a year teaching in the dysfunctional Miami school district . . . Jonathan LaPoma is an extraordinary writer."

--Stargazer Literary Prizes (Winner: Visionary & Metaphysical Fiction)

"In many ways, the novel was spiritual, as well as coming-of-age . . . plenty of action and adventure, as well as some poignant soul searching . . . Anyone who enjoys realistic fiction, with a gritty edge will enjoy this novel. The characters are extremely well written and believable, and the dialogue is perfect. Despite the serious matter, the book is also very humorous, visual and vibrant to read."

--Chantelle Atkins, Underground Book Reviews

"Sometimes the meat of a title lies not in fire and flames, but in simmering passion. Such is the nature of the coming-of-age experience depicted in Developing Minds, which offers a multi-faceted exploration of growth, maturity, and eventual transformation on the parts of all involved."

--D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review