Teachers for centuries have played a big part in changing society, This is not just by teaching a child about the basics of math and science, but all teaching him the basic knowledge and ethics of life.
In India, there is a saying that if god and teachers both appear together, I will first touch the feet of my teacher and then god, since without my teacher I would not have been aware of the god
In India, Teacher's Day is celebrated on September 5th every year to honor the contributions and hard work of teachers.
This date was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a prominent philosopher, scholar, and India's second President.
Dr. Radhakrishnan believed in the importance of education and was a dedicated teacher himself before entering politics.
On Teacher's Day, students across the country express their gratitude and respect for their teachers through various activities, performances, and heartfelt gestures. It's a day to recognize the role of teachers in shaping the future of students and society as a whole.
So here are 5 books on great teachers one should consider reading
1) "The Water Is Wide" by Pat Conroy:
"The Water Is Wide" is a semi-autobiographical novel written by Pat Conroy, it was published in 1972.
The book is based on Conroy's own experiences as a young teacher on Daufuskie Island, South Carolina, during the 1969-1970 school year.
The novel offers a sad views on racial and social issues related to education, and personal growth in that period.
The story is narrated by Pat Conroy's fictional counterpart, the idealistic young teacher named Pat Conroy.
He takes up a position as a teacher on the isolated and impoverished Daufuskie Island, which is predominantly inhabited by African-American Gullah people.
Pat is filled with enthusiasm and a desire to make a difference in the lives of his students.
The central conflict of the story revolves around the racial divide and the education system's shortcomings on the island.
Pat is met with resistance from both the white authorities who disregard the educational needs of the island's black children as well as from the island's isolated black community, which is deeply distrustful of white people due to historical reasons.
Despite these challenges, Pat is determined to provide a quality education to his students and bridge the gap between the two communities.
He faces numerous obstacles, including an old and poor school building with a lack of proper resources, and a hostile school superintendent who opposes his progressive teaching methods.
However, he gradually gains the trust and respect of his students, who are eager to learn despite their difficult circumstances.
The narrative also delves into the relationship between Pat Conroy and a young girl named Barbara, who becomes one of his most dedicated students.
Through his interactions with Barbara, Pat learns about the harsh realities of life on the island, the Gullah culture, and the resilience of the people living there.
As tensions escalate, Pat finds himself clashing with the authorities and facing personal and professional dilemmas.
He is forced to confront the racial prejudices of the time and make difficult decisions that will shape the lives of his students and his own future.
Throughout "The Water Is Wide," Pat skillfully addresses themes of social justice, racial inequality, the power of education, and the complexities of cultural understanding.
The novel presents a heartfelt portrayal of characters struggling against the odds to overcome adversity and make positive changes in their lives.
In summary, "The Water Is Wide" is a powerful and emotionally charged novel that draws from Pat Conroy's own experiences as a teacher.
It offers readers a thought-provoking exploration of race, education, and the human spirit's capacity for growth and empathy. The book's enduring relevance lies in its ability to inspire conversations about social justice and the transformative potential of education.
This is one best books on teacher you can read this teacher Day.
2) To Sir, With Love" by E.R. Braithwaite
"To Sir, With Love" is a novel written by E.R. Braithwaite, first published in 1959.
The book is a semi-autobiographical work that draws from the author's own experiences as a black teacher in a racially divided post-World War II London. The novel explores themes of race, education, social change, and personal growth making it one of the must-read books on teachers.
The story is narrated by Ricky Braithwaite, an educated black man from British Guiana (now Guyana), who served in the Royal Air Force during World War II.
After the war, he faces difficulty finding a job in his field of engineering due to racial prejudice. As a last resort, he takes up a teaching position in a rough East End London school.
Ricky is faced with a classroom of rowdy and disrespectful students who come from working-class backgrounds.
The school is known for its poor discipline and low academic standards. Despite the initial challenges, Ricky is determined to positively impact his students' lives.
He believes that education and respect can help bridge the gap between racial and social divides.
As he navigates the complexities of teaching and dealing with the students' attitudes, Ricky employs unconventional methods to gain their attention and respect.
He treats his students as adults, engaging them in discussions about life, manners, and societal expectations.
Through his teachings, Ricky aims to prepare his students for the real world, imparting valuable life lessons beyond academic subjects.
Throughout the novel, the relationships between Ricky and his students evolve.
They gradually shed their rebellious behavior and begin to see Ricky as a mentor and a role model. He challenges their prejudices and biases, urging them to rise above societal limitations and pursue their aspirations.
The novel also delves into Ricky's interactions with his colleagues, some of whom are skeptical of his unconventional teaching methods.
He faces criticism from both the school administration and parents for his approach, but he remains steadfast in his belief that education should be more than rote learning.
"To Sir, With Love" explores the personal struggles Ricky faces as well. He navigates his own feelings of frustration, disappointment, and loneliness, all while maintaining his professionalism and commitment to his students.
The title of the novel comes from the culmination of the student's transformation. At the end of the school year, the students surprise Ricky with a touching farewell gift, demonstrating the genuine appreciation and respect they have developed for him.
In summary, "To Sir, With Love" is a compelling and impactful novel that addresses themes of racism, education, and personal growth.
It offers a thought-provoking exploration of the power of teaching, human connections, and the potential for positive change in the face of adversity.
The book's enduring popularity speaks to its ability to inspire conversations about equality, education, and the enduring impact of a dedicated teacher.
3) "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom
"Tuesdays with Morrie" is a memoir written by Mitch Albom, first published in 1997.
The book is an emotional and heartwarming account of the author's real-life relationship with his former college professor, Morrie Schwartz.
It is centered around the valuable life lessons Mitch learns from Morrie as he introspect his own career and personal challenges.
The story begins with Mitch Albom reconnecting with Morrie Schwartz, his sociology professor from college, after seeing a television news segment featuring Morrie's battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a terminal illness.
The news triggers Mitch's desire to visit his old professor, leading to a series of meetings that take place every Tuesday, from which the title of the book is also derived "Tuesdays with Morrie."
As the book unfolds, the reader is taken on a journey of friendship, learning, and reflection.
The story alternates between the present-day meetings and flashbacks to Mitch's college year when he was a student in Morrie's class.
These flashbacks helps in providing context for their relationship and highlight Morrie's impact on Mitch's life even before their reunion.
The heart of the book lies in the conversations between Mitch and Morrie during their Tuesday meetings.
Morrie, facing his own mortality, imparts a wealth of wisdom and life lessons to Mitch.
These lessons cover a wide range of topics, including love, family, work, aging, death, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.
Morrie's insights are not only thought-provoking but also deeply moving, as he shares his perspectives on what truly matters in life.
As the weeks go by, Morrie's health deteriorates, but his spirit and wisdom remain strong.
Mitch becomes not only a student but also a caregiver, helping Morrie with daily tasks and cherishing their time together.
Through Morrie's vulnerability and openness, Mitch learns to confront his fears, reassess his priorities, and appreciate the simple joys of life.
The story ends with Morrie's passing, but his legacy lives on in the lessons he imparted to Mitch.
The book concludes with Mitch's commitment to carrying forward Morrie's teachings and sharing them with the world.
In essence, "Tuesdays with Morrie" is a moving exploration of the human experience, the value of relationships, and the significance of embracing mortality.
Mitch Albom's writing skillfully captures Morrie's wisdom and warmth, inviting us to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make.
The book's universal themes of love, compassion, and the pursuit of a life well-lived have resonated with readers around the world making it one of the bestsellers and a must-read book on teachers
"Tuesdays with Morrie" is not just a story about a teacher and his student; it's a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the potential for personal growth, even in the face of life's greatest challenges.
4) "The Freedom Writers Diary" by Erin Gruwell
"The Freedom Writers Diary" is a non-fiction book by Erin Gruwell, first published in 1999.
The book is based on the true story of Erin Gruwell's experiences as a young teacher working with at-risk students in a racially divided and economically disadvantaged high school in Long Beach, California.
The book is a collection of the personal writings of Gruwell's students, known as the Freedom Writers, as they chronicle their struggles, triumphs, and personal growth.
The narrative is framed by Erin Gruwell's journey as a novice teacher who is assigned to teach English to a group of students deemed "unteachable" by many of her colleagues. The students come from diverse backgrounds and have experienced significant hardships, including gang violence, poverty, and racial tensions.
Gruwell is determined to make a difference in their lives by engaging them in the power of literature, writing, and empathy.
In an effort to connect with her students and encourage self-expression, Gruwell introduces them to books that tackle social justice issues and themes of tolerance.
She also encourages them to keep journals in which they can express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
As the students begin to share their stories, they discover common ground and newfound empathy for one another.
They find strength in their shared struggles and form a bond that transcends racial and cultural divides.
The students refer to themselves as the "Freedom Writers," drawing inspiration from the civil rights movement and the idea that their words have the power to effect change.
The book is structured as a collection of journal entries, essays, and personal reflections written by the Freedom Writers over a period of four years.
Their writings provide a raw and unfiltered glimpse into their lives, covering topics such as violence, family dynamics, discrimination, and personal growth.
Through their writing, the students find a platform to confront their past traumas, express their dreams, and redefine their identities.
As the Freedom Writers gain confidence in their writing abilities and their collective voice, they embark on a journey of advocacy and social change.
They undertake various projects to raise awareness about issues affecting their communities and strive to break the cycle of violence and despair.
"The Freedom Writers Diary" is a testament to the transformative power of education, empathy, and the written word.
Erin Gruwell's dedication to her students and her innovative teaching methods inspire the Freedom Writers to rise above their circumstances and strive for a better future.
The book showcases the remarkable resilience of young people in the face of adversity and highlights the potential for positive change when individuals come together to share their stories. Its one of the inspiring books on teachers one should Definity read
Overall, "The Freedom Writers Diary" is a moving and inspiring account of how a committed teacher and a group of determined students can overcome challenges and make a lasting impact on each other's lives.
The book emphasizes the importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment where students' voices are heard and validated.
5) "Teacher Man" by Frank McCourt:
"Teacher Man" is a memoir written by Frank McCourt, and published in 2005.
It is the third book in his autobiographical series, following "Angela's Ashes" and "'Tis."
The book offers a humorous, insightful, and sometimes poignant account of McCourt's experiences as a teacher in various New York City schools, exploring his challenges, triumphs, and reflections on education.
The narrative chronicles McCourt's journey as he transitions from being a student to becoming a teacher.
After struggling with unemployment and various odd jobs, he finally lands a teaching position in a vocational school in Brooklyn.
With his lack of formal training and unorthodox methods, McCourt enters the classroom with uncertainty but also with a deep desire to connect with and inspire his students.
"Teacher Man" explores the ups and downs of McCourt's teaching career, touching on his interactions with students from diverse backgrounds, his struggles to maintain discipline and order, and his evolving teaching techniques.
McCourt's unique approach to teaching, characterized by storytelling, humor, and an emphasis on personal experiences, sets him apart from his colleagues and resonates with his students.
Throughout the book, McCourt shares humorous short stories and heartwarming moments from his time in the classroom.
He vividly portrays the challenges of teaching in underprivileged neighborhoods, where students often face poverty, difficult family situations, and limited educational resources.
Despite these obstacles, McCourt maintains a deep commitment to fostering a love of learning and critical thinking among his students.
The memoir delves into the personal and professional struggles McCourt faces, including clashes with school administrators, the changing landscape of education, and his own internal battles.
He candidly shares his experiences of burnout and the occasional disillusionment that can come with teaching, offering readers an honest portrayal of the complexities of the profession.
"Teacher Man" ultimately celebrates the transformative power of education and the lasting impact teachers can have on their students' lives.
McCourt's ability to infuse his teaching with his own life stories and to see the potential in every student reflects his dedication to nurturing young minds and encouraging them to reach their full potential.
In summary, "Teacher Man" is a candid, witty, and reflective memoir that provides a unique glimpse into the life of a dedicated educator.
Frank McCourt's storytelling skills and his insights into the challenges and rewards of teaching create a compelling story that resonates with both educators and those who appreciate the profound influence of teachers on their students' lives.
CONCLUSION
Great personalities like Bill Gates and APJ Kalam have always talked about the roles of teachers in their overall success.
Their stories serve as powerful reminders of the role teachers play in shaping individuals and, by extension, society as a whole
Although nowadays we see many teachers discriminating against their students based on religion, caste, and color all the above books remind us that despite the challenges we face, there are educators out there who continue to uphold the true spirit of teaching, nurturing young minds without prejudice and working towards a brighter, more harmonious future.
As we celebrate Teacher's Day, let us remember the teachers who have touched our lives and continue to inspire us to learn, grow, and make a positive difference in the world.
Reading these books is a wonderful way to pay tribute to the educators who have shaped us and to honor the noble profession of teaching. Happy Teacher's Day!