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Two, four, six, eight… Who do we appreciate? TEACHERS!

Let's face it, our teachers are the real MVPs, tirelessly shaping the minds of the future generation day in and day out. Whether it's guiding us through quadratic equations or igniting our passion for Shakespeare, they're always there, going above and beyond.

With US teacher appreciation week coming up May 6th it's our chance to turn the spotlight onto these unsung heroes and shower them with the gratitude they deserve. But how do we possibly show how much appreciation we have for all that our teachers do? Well we think that books make the perfect meaningful gift!

From celebrating your teacher’s sense of humor, the impact they have on students’ daily lives, or just saying a simple thank you teacher, these books for teachers make the perfect teacher appreciation gifts.

Share a Laugh:

Want to get your teachers laughing out loud? Then look no further than these wacky, hilarious picture books. Perfect to enjoy themselves or share with their classrooms, get ready to hear them chuckling.

1. The World’s Best Class Plant by Liz Garton Scanlon and Audrey Vernick

Room 107 has a cockatiel. Room 108 has a chinchilla. Even the Art Room has a bearded dragon. But in Room 109, Arlo's classroom, there is a plant. A mostly green, slow-growing, unmoving plant. One day, Arlo decides to give the plant a name: Jerry. As the class learns to nurture Jerry, he begins to flourish—becoming greener, taller, and more intricately twisted. Before long, it becomes evident that something extraordinary is blooming in Arlo's classroom.

2. How to Get Your Octopus to School by Becky Scharnhorst

Getting your octopus to school won't be easy. He would much rather stay home with you and play hide-and-seek or dress-up. But you know your octopus will love school if he gives it a chance. But you just have to find him first…

3. A Funny Thing Happened After School… by Davide Cali

Homework has gotten a little harder to do. Maybe because Henry and Ali are in space! They want to get their homework done—they really do! But how are they supposed to study the solar system when they seem to be swept up in an endless series of interstellar surprises?

Share Expert Tips:

Empower your teachers to reach their full potential inside and outside the classroom. With heartwarming stories and inspiring narratives, show your appreciation for your most valuable employees by investing in their future.

4. The Art of Teaching Children: All I Learned from a Lifetime in the Classroom by Phillip Done

After over three decades in the classroom, Phillip Done decided it was time to retire but not before sharing his wealth of experience in a book for educators. Through practical advice and heartfelt stories, Done delves into the messy, rewarding world of teaching offering a comprehensive yet inspiring guide for anyone involved in children's education.

5. The Learning Game: Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves, Embrace Challenge, and Love Learning by Ana Lorena Fábrega

Ana Lorena Fábrega challenges the traditional schooling system, urging us to reconsider how we approach education. She offers actionable strategies to foster independent thinking, risk-taking, and a love for learning, providing practical tools to prepare children for life beyond the confines of traditional schooling.

6. The Magical Place We Call School: Creating a Safe Space for Learning and Happiness in a Challenging World by Dr. Kathleen Corley

Veteran educator Dr. Kathleen Corley offers a fresh perspective on education amidst today's complex challenges. With humor and insight, she delves into the value of education, children's learning needs, and societal issues impacting them, providing a heartfelt glimpse into the magic of schools and a valuable perspective from the front lines of learning.

Share Some Inspiration:

What better way to share a heartfelt moment with your teachers than to show them the power they have to change the lives of their students. Inspire them to continue doing the amazing job they are doing with these empowering, heartwarming stories.

7. Lila Greer, Teacher of the Year by Andrea Beaty

Lila Greer is full of worries. So when her family makes a big change - moving to a new town- the worries only grow. In her new home, everything is strange. The new kids, the new smells. Lila feels alone and invisible. But there’s one person who sees her: Lila’s teacher, Ms. Kern. Ms. Kern finds a way to make Lila feel welcome and open to new experiences.

8. The Teachers: A Year Inside America’s Most Vulnerable, Important Profession by Alexandra Robbins

Alexandra Robbins delves into the realities of teaching through the experiences of three educators: Penny, Miguel, and Rebecca, sharing their challenges and triumphs in the classroom. This sheds light on the crucial role teachers play in our communities and offers ways to support them.

9. Lessons Learned and Cherished: The Teacher Who Changed My Life by Deborah Roberts

Educators not only open our minds to new ideas, but they also help us recognize our potential and our passions. However, rarely do they get credit for the life-changing work they do. Deborah Roberts curates a collection of essays and musings from celebrity friends and colleagues alike that share how teachers changed them, imparted life lessons, and helped them get to where they are today.

Share a Thank You:

When wondering what to get your teachers, never forget the power a simple thank you can have. These books say just that and are like giving your teacher a big hug with these pages.

10. The Berenstain Bears: We Love Our Teacher! by Mike Berenstain

Brother and Sister Bear are very excited to be going back to school! But they have Miz Bearly as their teacher, known for giving lots of homework, loving pop quizzes, and always looking a bit grouchy. But the cubs soon realize that Miz Bearly can also make learning fun, and if they just give her a chance, they may even find this tough teacher is a big softy at heart.

11. Look How Much I’ve Grown in KINDergarten by Vera Ahiyya

Mason feels overshadowed by her friends' progress in kindergarten until her teacher, Ms. Perry, introduces a unique growth chart concept. As students set personal growth goals, Mason learns that everyone shines in their own way, embracing the support and encouragement around her.

12. Why We Need Teachers by Gregory E. Lang

Want to celebrate the work teachers do in schools everywhere? Say thank you to your favorite teachers with this sweet picture book filled with genuine sentiment, adorable animal illustrations, and gentle, heartfelt rhymes. This is the perfect thank you gift for the teachers making a difference opening minds and touching hearts every day.

Share a Classroom Read-Aloud:

Your teachers’ classroom libraries are never too full! It’s a special time when teachers and students get to read together so why not give some titles just for this time. Filled with kind and empowering characters your teachers will be smiling just as much as the students.

13. Miss Edmonia’s Class of Wildfires by Victoria Scott-Miller

Miss Edmonia and her class of elementary-­aged WILDFIRES are spending the day at the art museum. Follow Kara-Clementine and Attilio as they explore the museum's collection and discover the character traits that make them special. Perfect to read with your kiddos to explore concepts of self-discovery, identity, empowerment, and the power of art.

14. I Am More Than by Lebron James

This second slam-dunk picture book from NBA champion and cultural icon LeBron James motivates readers to remember they can accomplish their goals when they believe in themselves! Perfect for shared reading in the classroom and to show their students how special and powerful they are.

15. The Reflection in Me by Marc Colagiovanni

This is a story of self-love that teaches children that their physical layer is just that — one layer — and below it lies a rich tapestry of attributes that make them unique and wonderful. The Reflection in Me serves to empower children and readers of all ages to find the courage to look inside and love themselves just as they are.

We hope that you are able to find some gift inspiration from these fun titles. If you are still looking for more titles we have our teacher gift guide ready on standby! Or if you have a specific title in mind and aren't seeing it on our website then connect with one of our book experts and we would be happy to help you out with your request! We can’t wait to hear how you celebrated teacher appreciation week with your teachers!