I'd never heard coconut used as an epithet. Larry, I admire your standing up for your beliefs and that there are outlets for your opinions. You back them up in a rational way. I checked amazon.com and didn't see any books by you. One would be a breath of fresh air. I remember when Bill Cosby was reviled because of his views about education. As a white teacher, I saw students, black and white, rejecting education and it was heartbreaking. These were the kids who still came to school but refused to learn (going into Algebra class without a pencil or paper and refusing to take any) so there was some hope they would change their minds. It was the large percent who had already dropped out that I worry about most. I used to tell parents and students that you can't learn to read by reading only when a teacher gives you an assignment and monitors it. If you want to learn, you have to do most of it yourself by reading, listening, observing and doing. I look forward to your future columns. Thank you.

Michael Jackson was black? Are you sure? (My grandmother actually asked this question in all seriousness...and I can't blame her, frankly.)

larry your column and advice should not be taking serious i cannot see a sane or intelligent person taking you or your advice serious. thats my word and i am sticking to it.