This collection of 29 unusual and interesting articles in 19 chapters addresses the issues of urban education from several provocative angles. The book outlines how cultural traditions of minority groups can be the fulcrum for positive educational change, and the special challenges of growing up as a male from a minority background. Some articles provide insight into the role of the urban teacher and the characteristics necessary to succeed with students in city schools. The author and the other contributors explore many successful and innovative approaches to the problems of urban schools, including the following: (1) year-round schooling; (2) rites of passage; (3) conflict resolution; (4) holistic student development; (5) vocational and technical training; (6) gender equity; (7) Afrocentric curriculum; (8) positive use of gangs; (9) culture and multimedia; and (10) educational centers. (Contains numerous references.) (SLD)