Mr. Browne’s determination to encourage kindness and empathy among his fifth-graders is a source of inspiration for many teachers who’ve read this story of a boy with facial differences entering mainstream school for the first time.

In this classic, Matilda is in dire need of a teacher who recognizes her talents—someone like Miss Honey. And in many classrooms today, there are students just like Matilda who are yearning for attention, and teachers just like you who are willing to give it to them.  

Teachers easily relate to Mrs. Granger’s sly teaching methods in this book about the power of words and evolving language.

We’re stretching a bit with an entire series, but “The Boy Who Lived” had many amazing teachers during his eventful years at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. And we know most teachers relish in the exploits of those standout professors and their star pupil.

Teachers recommend this book as a humorous reminder to look for—and encourage—the creativity and other strengths of students with disabilities.  

This moving collection of short stories explores issues of race, discrimination, and the importance of education. For many teachers, it’s been instrumental in helping them better understand the experiences of their Latinx students.

A lyrical story of Vietnamese refugees’ experiences leaving home, coming to America, and growing as a family as they learn to adapt to a foreign place, this book also gives teachers a window into the anger and frustration immigrant kids experience when they’re unable to effectively express themselves in a new language.

A classic that's introduced countless teachers to important themes of race and privilege, this book helps educators navigate the strong emotions that naturally arise when discussing such important topics. 

This book is the perfect reminder that children typically don’t intend to drive their teachers crazy. It may even help you become more patient and forgiving with the Bradley Chalkers you encounter!

Even when Joey Pigza gets into sticky situations that frustrate his teacher and the other adults around him, he doesn’t mean to cause problems. Many teachers see Joey’s story as a window into the mind of a student with ADHD, and they credit this book as one that helps them better understand the world their students live in.

Forgotten what it’s like to be young, hopeful, and passionate about a cause, yet summarily dismissed by many adults in your life? Carl Hiaasen’s Hoot, and other novels, are here to remind you just what kids can achieve when the right teacher is there to support them.