After a full school year of lesson planning, classroom chaos, and giving 110% to your students, summer is your time. Whether you’re curled up at the beach, in bed, or on your porch with a cup of coffee, these seven books are here to help you rest, reflect, and refocus. I’ve hand-picked them based on what I’ve read and loved—or added to my personal stack for professional growth and perspective.
🌿 Reflect, Reset, and Recharge
1. Let Them by Mel Robbins
⭐ Goodreads: 4.2 / 5
This short, punchy read is a personal favourite and the mindset reset every teacher needs. Robbins encourages you to stop chasing control and let people be who they are. It’s freeing, practical, and perfect for summer reflection.
2. Educated by Tara Westover
⭐ Goodreads: 4.47 / 5
If you haven’t read this memoir yet, it’s a must. Westover’s journey from an off-the-grid childhood to earning a PhD from Cambridge is unforgettable. It speaks to the power of education, resilience, and reclaiming your voice.
3. The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter
⭐ Goodreads: 4.27 / 5
A compelling look at why modern life is too comfortable—and how stepping into challenge can help us grow. It’s a fascinating, adventurous, and surprisingly motivating read for teachers looking to shake things up personally or professionally.
📘 Professional Picks for Passionate Educators
4. The Literacy 50 – A Q&A Handbook for Teachers: Real-World Answers to Questions About Reading That Keep You Up at Night by Melissa Loftus & Lori Sappington
A practical and highly readable guide that answers the real questions teachers face around reading instruction. With a Q&A format, it’s easy to dip in and out as you prep for next term or rethink your current literacy practices.
5. Reach All Readers: Using the Science of Reading to Transform Your Literacy Instruction
by Anna Geiger
Anna Geiger brings clarity and encouragement to the Science of Reading conversation. This book is especially useful for teachers transitioning from balanced literacy and looking for evidence-based strategies that actually work in a real classroom.
🔍 Deep Dive into the Bigger Picture
6. The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Caused an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt
This important read explores how smartphones and social media have reshaped childhood—and not for the better. It’s a must-read for educators, parents, and anyone trying to understand today’s children and teens. Eye-opening and essential.
🎬 Fiction That Pulls You In
7. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins
⭐ Goodreads: 3.82 / 5
A prequel to The Hunger Games that explores the origins of President Snow and the early days of the games. It’s rich with moral complexity and tension—and makes a great “read it before you see the movie” pick for your holiday break.
8. Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez
A poignant tale of love, memory, and second chances, showcasing Jimenez’s engaging storytelling and emotional depth.
✨ Quick Tips for Summer Reading
- Mix it up: Don’t feel guilty for reading fiction alongside PD—balance is the goal!
- Set a slow pace: Even 10 minutes a day counts. No pressure.
- Highlight or reflect: Jot down thoughts or quotes that spark ideas for next term.
- Create a ritual: A cup of tea, a sunny spot, and a good book = summer bliss.
📖 Got a recommendation or loving one of these titles too? I’d love to hear from you—tag me on Instagram @TweetResources and let’s build a summer stack together!
