The Teachers I Loved Best by Taylor Mali, illustrated by Erica Root - ESSENTIAL

The Teachers I Loved Best by Taylor Mali, illustrated by Erica Root. PICTURE BOOK Penguin Random House. 2023. $19. 9780593565230

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Multiple children tell of the teachers they loved best and why. Teachers who inspire, push you to work hard, and demand in a positive way. Teachers, librarians, crossing guards, and principals who make you want to be better than plain good. Teachers who are not always the center of attention, coaches who fortify and fire, teachers who promote confidence, and learning, and go above and beyond. The most important, teachers who love and give what is needed, have their student’s backs and push them gently. These are the best teachers that are loved.

Illustrations by Root are very simple, clean, and descriptive. The way they depict the classroom, gym, playing field, science lab, art room, or choir room is so realistic and engaging. The characters are multicultural and disabled, demonstrating that ALL children can thrive with hard work, love, and devotion. A charming book for any elementary library and school counseling staff.  The characters are multicultural and show children with physical disabilities. 

Deanna M. - Elementary Media Tech