A Life of Gratitude

Book Summary
In this fascinating autobiography, years in the making, Robert D. Snater tells his
personal story of his acquired German-Dutch heritage, raised by a single mother during
the Great Depression and World War II, in the small town of Ackley, in east-central
Iowa. Relive your own youthful experiences while enjoying the adventures of the author
and his friends. Follow his expanding horizons while attending Drake University, and the
discouraging realities he encountered in the early stages of his career. But, witness his
sustained and persistent nature which determined the direction of his life. A good
marriage and family life helped in maintaining a wholesome and balanced career. Finally,
learn of his challenging and rewarding experiences during his 30 plus years in the field of
education.
The book is divided into two parts. Part One traces his early years. Book Two
describes his professional life as an educator. The first half of his career tells his climb
from a discouraging beginning to a very satisfying and rewarding conclusion. His leap
into school administration followed years of night school and summer schools to obtain a
Masters degree in School Administration. A most challenging career followed. His
interest in organization and curriculum development will provide food for thought.
Finally, he finished a Specialist degree that enabled him to serve as superintendent of
schools. He ended his career with the satisfaction of a job well done.