Winter break is a crucial time for educators to rest and recharge because of the demands of the teaching profession that requires significant physical, mental, and emotional energy. Taking time to kick back and relax is essential for overall well-being, long-term effectiveness, and longevity in the field. A rejuvenated teacher creates a positive and dynamic learning environment that benefits everyone involved.
While this break presents a time to relax, it can also be one for educators to find inspiration and encourage their own professional growth. Here’s a curated list of excellent nonfiction education-related books to read this winter break (and any break!):
Professional Growth and Teaching Philosophy
The Courage to Teach by Parker J. Palmer
The Courage to Teach is a profound exploration of the inner life of educators and the personal dimensions of teaching. Palmer argues that effective teaching goes beyond mastery of content or techniques—it requires deep self-reflection, authenticity, and the courage to be vulnerable in the classroom. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, Palmer emphasizes the importance of connecting with students on a human level and creating a learning environment rooted in trust, passion, and integrity. The book encourages educators to embrace their inner values and find the courage to bring their whole selves into the teaching process, fostering both personal growth and meaningful connections with students.
Teach Like a Champion by Doug Lemov
Teach Like a Champion provides a practical guide to classroom management and effective teaching strategies. Drawing on research and real-world observations, Lemov presents a collection of techniques that help teachers maximize student engagement, promote high expectations, and create a positive, structured learning environment. The book offers actionable tips for everything from maintaining control of the classroom to ensuring student participation and fostering academic rigor. Aimed at both new and experienced educators, Teach Like a Champion is a resource for improving teaching practices and achieving excellence in the classroom.
The First Days of School by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong
The First Days of School is a comprehensive guide for teachers on how to create a positive, productive classroom from the very first day. Focusing on the importance of classroom management, the book outlines strategies for setting clear expectations, building relationships with students, and establishing routines that promote success. It offers practical advice on everything from lesson planning to discipline, with a focus on fostering a supportive environment where students feel safe and motivated to learn. This book is a valuable resource for both new and seasoned teachers looking to start the school year with confidence and clarity.
Understanding Students, Learning, and Brain Science
Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain by Zaretta Hammond
Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain is the foremost expert text on the intersection of neuroscience and culturally responsive teaching practices. Hammond examines how students’ cultural backgrounds influence their brain development and learning processes, offering practical strategies for educators to engage diverse students effectively. The book provides insights into how educators can create inclusive, responsive learning environments that promote equity, foster cognitive development, and support student success. By integrating brain science with culturally responsive teaching, Hammond empowers teachers to meet the needs of all learners, especially those from marginalized communities, and build strong, meaningful connections with their students.
How Children Succeed by Paul Tough
How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character highlights the crucial role of character traits such as perseverance, curiosity, and self-control in determining children’s success. Drawing on research in psychology, neuroscience, and education, Tough argues that non-cognitive skills—often overlooked in traditional academic measures—are key to helping children thrive, both in school and in life. The book explores the importance of building resilience, fostering a growth mindset, and supporting children through challenges to help them develop the inner qualities that lead to long-term success.
Mindset by Carol S. Dweck
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success explores the concept of “mindset” and how our beliefs about our abilities can profoundly impact our success. Dweck distinguishes between two types of mindsets: the fixed mindset, where individuals believe their abilities are static, and the growth mindset, where individuals believe they can develop their abilities through effort and learning. Through research and examples from education, sports, and business, Dweck demonstrates how adopting a growth mindset fosters resilience, motivation, and a love of learning, leading to greater achievement and personal growth.
Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel
Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning is all about evidence-based strategies for effective learning. Drawing on the latest research in cognitive science, the book debunks common myths about learning and offers practical techniques that promote long-term retention and deeper understanding. The authors highlight the importance of active learning, spaced repetition, and retrieval practice, showing how these methods can be applied to improve academic performance and learning in everyday life. Make It Stick provides valuable insights for both students and educators seeking to optimize the learning process.
Racial Equity in Education
Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? by Beverly Daniel Tatum
Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? is a deep dive into the complexities of race, identity, and belonging in American society. Drawing on her expertise in psychology and education, Tatum examines how racial identity develops, particularly during adolescence, and why students of different races often segregate themselves in school settings. The book delves into the impact of racism, stereotypes, and societal structures on young people’s sense of self and their interactions with others. Tatum provides insights into how educators, parents, and communities can foster open dialogue, understanding, and inclusivity to bridge racial divides and promote empathy and equality.
Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Monique W. Morris
Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools examines the unique and often overlooked ways Black girls are disproportionately disciplined, criminalized, and marginalized in the educational system. Drawing on research, personal stories, and case studies, Morris reveals how school policies, cultural biases, and systemic racism contribute to the mistreatment of Black girls, leading to higher rates of suspension, expulsion, and involvement with the criminal justice system. The book calls for a reevaluation of educational practices and advocacy for reform, urging educators and policymakers to create more equitable and supportive environments for Black girls.
Not Light, but Fire by Matthew R. Kay
Not Light but Fire: How to Lead Meaningful Race Conversations in Classrooms offers practical guidance for educators on how to engage students in meaningful and productive conversations about race. Drawing on his own experiences as a teacher, Kay provides strategies for creating a classroom environment where race can be discussed openly and respectfully. The book emphasizes the importance of fostering critical thinking, empathy, and self-reflection while addressing racial issues and challenges. Kay encourages educators to become active facilitators of race dialogues, helping students understand their own identities and the impact of race in society.
Restorative Practices and Building Relationships
Better Than Carrots or Sticks by Dominique Smith, Douglas Fisher, and Nancy Frey
Better Than Carrots or Sticks: Restorative Practices for Positive Classroom Management highlights restorative practices as an alternative to traditional disciplinary approaches in schools. The book emphasizes building strong relationships, fostering community, and addressing misbehavior through understanding and accountability rather than punishment. It provides practical strategies for creating a positive, supportive classroom environment where students are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions, repair harm, and learn from their mistakes. By focusing on empathy and connection, the authors offer a transformative approach to managing behavior and promoting social-emotional growth.
Discipline with Dignity by Richard L. Curwin & Allen N. Mendler
Discipline with Dignity: New Challenges, New Solutions by Richard L. Curwin and Allen N. Mendler offers a comprehensive approach to managing student behavior in a way that respects both the teacher’s authority and the student’s dignity. The book provides practical strategies for addressing misbehavior without resorting to punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of building positive relationships, setting clear expectations, and using proactive techniques. By focusing on respect, accountability, and collaboration, Discipline with Dignity encourages educators to create a classroom environment where students feel valued and motivated to succeed.
Teaching with Love and Logic by Jim Fay and David Funk
Teaching with Love and Logic: Taking Control of the Classroom presents a practical and compassionate approach to classroom management. The book focuses on fostering responsibility, accountability, and respect through clear boundaries and empathetic communication. By combining love (care and support) with logic (consequences and problem-solving), educators can create an environment where students feel both valued and responsible for their actions. It offers strategies to engage students, manage behavior, and encourage self-discipline, helping teachers build strong, positive relationships while maintaining control in the classroom.
Looking for more reading inspiration? Read our other professional learning reading-based blogs:
- 5 Education-based Memoirs to Inspire Teachers Over the Summer
- 10 Impactful Reads for Educators this Native American Heritage Month
- 15 Classic Novels with Social Studies Themes
- 12 Contemporary Novels with Social Studies Themes
Learn about the ways Social Studies School Service can support your professional development
This listicle was written as a collaborative effort by the team at Social Studies School Service. It has been edited for clarity and length.