What I’m Reading as a Teacher on Summer Break
This site contains affiliate links, view the disclosure for more information.
As a teacher, summer break is the perfect time to slow down, recharge, and finally read those books that have been sitting on your night stand.
And while I will most definitely be catching up on all of the 🌶 romance novels on my TBR list, I also like to use the summer to dig into some books that will make me a better and more engaged educator.
This post is all about books teachers should read on summer break and summer professional development for teachers.
Whether you’re lounging on the porch with an iced coffee or stealing a few quiet moments during nap time (fellow moms, I see you), this list of powerful summer reads will reignite your passion for teaching and deepen your understanding of your students.
From inspiring memoirs to game-changing pedagogy, these books are chosen with heart and purpose—focusing on culturally responsive teaching, equity, and instructional impact. I’ve included a mix of books I’ve already read and absolutely loved, along with some I’m eager to dive into this summer. Let’s grow together—one page at a time.
3 Books I’ve Read That Make Me a Better Teacher
The Wild Card by Hope and Wade King
This book truly lit a spark in me. It reminded me that student engagement doesn’t have to be complicated—it just requires heart, intention, and a little creativity. I loved how it gave me permission to be bold in my classroom and helped me rediscover the fun in teaching.
2. Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
This was one of the most accessible and powerful books I've read on the history of racism in America. Jason Reynolds’ voice drew me in, and I appreciated how deeply this book challenged my thinking. It gave me both language and perspective to begin having more intentional conversations with my students.
3. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah’s memoir made me laugh, cry, and think deeply about language, privilege, and race. I loved how his personal stories highlighted the complex beauty and brutality of apartheid-era South Africa while showing the resilience of his mother and the importance of identity. It’s a book that lingers long after you finish.
If you haven’t read one of those books, I HIGHLY recommend that you do!
Books on My Current Summer Reading List for Teacher Professional Development
4. Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain by Zaretta Hammond
I’ve heard this is a must-read for every teacher seeking to build deeper connections with students while also strengthening instruction. I’m particularly excited about how it blends research in neuroscience with practical classroom strategies to support equity.
5. Street Data by Shane Safir and Jamila Dugan
This book is all about listening deeply to students—especially those whose voices are too often ignored. I’m curious to learn how to collect and act on meaningful “street-level” data that can reshape instruction and policy.
6. The Art of Going Slow by Damon Zahariades
This book is a powerful antidote to the go-go-go mindset so many of us fall into—especially as teachers juggling endless to-do lists. Zahariades offers practical strategies for slowing down with intention, reclaiming your time, and focusing on what truly matters. I’m including it on my summer list because I want to enter the next school year more grounded, less reactive, and more in control of my time and energy. It’s a gentle but necessary reset for any teacher feeling like life moves too fast.
7. Happy Teacher Habits by Michael Linsin
Written by the founder of Smart Classroom Management, this book focuses on simple, actionable habits that help teachers feel calmer, more confident, and happier at school. I’m adding this to my summer stack because I’m always looking for ways to create better boundaries and protect my joy throughout the school year—and this one feels like it delivers on both mindset and method.
I hope this list gives you something to look forward to this summer—whether you're reading on the beach, in your backyard, or curled up on the couch after finally getting the kids to bed. These books were picked with heart: some to challenge us, some to inspire us, and some to just help us slow down and breathe a little deeper.
Teaching is hard. Life is full. But we’re not in it alone. So grab a book (or three), refill your iced coffee, and take some time to feed your mind and your soul this summer. You deserve it. 💛
Xoxo, Alexa
