This Is How You Do It!

Okay, I have to admit that I'm feeling a bit smug right now. That feeling may not last. This morning I received an email telling me my book order was late -- for the classes I didn't know I had. I called my department office to find out what was going on, and decided to throw a few more things into the mix. The department assistant's advice was to write to the assistant dean and copy the dean. I think I found that balance I was striving for, respectful but blunt. Here is how I handled the issue I wrote about yesterday:

"I received an email from the bookstore this morning telling me that I was late with the book order for my summer classes. This was the first I knew of having been assigned summer classes! I'm happy to accept them, and will order the books as soon as possible. Here is my question: Am I required to use the same 1101 text for those courses that is mandated for adjuncts on [this] Campus? I don't know if this has been brought to your attention before, but that book (Steps to Writing Well) has errors in its MLA format section. It's difficult for me to hold my students accountable for proper MLA format when the textbook gives wrong information. 

Additionally, I am hoping that you can give me some insight into why I wasn't granted an interview for the recently-filled full-time Professor of English position. I feel that I've done a good job for [College] and have stepped up to help [this] Campus, in particular, on several occasions. I intend to apply for other full-time openings in the future, so this insight would be helpful."

The reply may not be super-helpful, but I least I said what I had to. That feels good.