The Teachers I Loved Best
What’s inside...
An inspiring collection of essays and poetry that pays homage to the impact of educators and explores the intricate art of teaching. Educator and acclaimed poet Taylor Mali honors the magic of teachers and mentors in this joyful, energetic, uplifting gift book. 'Easy teachers who gave easy tests are not the teachers I loved the best.' The book is perfect for teacher appreciation gifts and graduation. It presents an inspirational, rhyming picture book ode to extra-special teachers remembered years later. Children and adults alike will enjoy the scenes bursting with positivity, highlighting academics, sports, drama, art, music, and community involvement. Teachers will appreciate the depiction of their honored profession with love and gratitude, accompanied by gorgeous, whimsical illustrations by Erica Root, celebrating the commitment and diversity of special people who mentor, lead, and inspire our children.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do the teachers in the book have that make them memorable? How do those qualities affect the students?
Can you think of a teacher who has made a positive impact on your life? What similarities do they share with the teachers in this story?
How do the teachers in the book show they care about their students?
Why do you think the author chose to highlight these particular teachers? What message do you think the author is trying to convey?
If you could give a message to one of your favorite teachers, what would you say and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child about their current or past teachers and what makes them special. This will help them connect more with the themes of the book.
Encourage your child to think about how their favorite teachers have helped them grow, both academically and personally.
After reading, discuss the different teaching styles mentioned in the book and ask your child which style they think works best for them.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of compassion, patience, and understanding in teaching and learning.
Encourage your child to express gratitude to their teachers by writing a thank-you note or sharing their feelings verbally, inspired by the stories from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of appreciation
Explanation: Through the eyes of various students, the book showcases how each teacher impacted their lives positively, emphasizing gratitude towards educators.
Real-World Application: Children can practice expressing thanks to their teachers and others who help them, fostering a culture of appreciation from a young age.
Example Lesson: Recognizing diverse teaching styles
Explanation: The book highlights different teachers with unique teaching approaches, helping children understand and value diversity in educational methods.
Real-World Application: Children learn to adapt to various learning environments and respect different viewpoints, enhancing their flexibility and empathy.
Example Lesson: The impact of positive reinforcement
Explanation: Stories in the book underline how teachers’ encouragement greatly boosts student confidence and motivation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply positive feedback to their peers, promoting a supportive community among classmates.
Example Lesson: The power of passion in teaching
Explanation: Teachers in the book are depicted as passionate about their subjects, which in turn inspires the students.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to pursue their interests with enthusiasm, understanding that passion can lead to success and fulfillment.
Example Lesson: Value of lifelong learning
Explanation: The book showcases teachers as continuous learners which impresses upon kids the importance of education throughout life.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to remain curious and embrace learning opportunities, seeing education as an enjoyable and ongoing journey.