It’s back to school time again, and rather than focus on school supplies, lesson planning, and teaching methods, we’d like to applaud the fabulous teachers who every year make a tremendous effort to help further education and literacy. We’ve gathered a list of our favorite literary teachers, both good and bad. Warning, spoilers ahead!
FEATURED TEACHERS:
Claudia Simon – THE MILL RIVER RECLUSE by Darcie Chan
Starting a new life isn’t easy, especially when you acquire a stalker along the way, but Claudia has a determination and loving spirit that is to be admired.
Charlie Garrett – THE HALF BROTHER by Holly LeCraw
Charlie’s life is nothing but twists and turns as he denies the woman he loves, confronts his brother’s scandalous secrets, and unweaves a hidden family history that just might dictate his future happiness.
Jason Fitger – DEAR COMMITTEE MEMBERS by Julie Schumacher
It’s the recommendation letter writer from hell, in a hilarious novel written in the form of satirical letters from disgruntled and egotistical university “Engli_h” Professor Fitzger.
Vera Lundy – WHAT HAS BECOME OF YOU by Jan Elizabeth Watson
Teaching can be murder – Vera takes special interest in a student, only to have her disappear after a series of murders, in which Vera is a suspect due to her troubled past and lack of respect for student-teacher boundaries.
Emma and Grace – ALL THE TRUTH by Laura Brodie
One terrifying night will result in a dreadful crime that will plague a college student, a teacher, and a child for years to come.
Socrates – THE REPUBLIC by Plato
What is the purpose in education? Plato’s classic work just may have the answer, as Socrates and his cohorts discuss ideas and concepts that maintain their relevance to this day.
Annie Sullivan – HELEN’S EYES by Marfe Ferguson Delano
Persistence and patience were two of the key factors that made Sullivan into a “miracle worker” as teacher and companion to Helen Keller.
Mrs. Robbins – MY TEACHER FOR PRESIDENT by Kay Winters
Timely and wonderfully illustrated, this book shows how the work of a teacher resembles the job of the president, from her quick responses to emergencies, health care stance, and ideas for keeping the peace. We’d vote for Mrs. Robbins!
Ms. Hill – JOBS PEOPLE DO: A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A TEACHER by Linda Hayward
What is Ms. Hill doing bringing 28 fish to school? Follow this fascinating teacher for a day to find out!
Lou Volpe – DRAMA HIGH: THE INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF A BRILLIANT TEACHER, A STRUGGLING TOWN, AND THE MAGIC OF THEATER by Michael Sokolove
Volpe’s students, from the blue-collar town of Levittown, Pennsylvania, go on to become Emmy-winning producers, entertainment executives, newscasters, and community-theater founders.
