Category: Book Reviews

Well Played: Building Mathematical Thinking

Why play games in math class? The authors of Well Played have the answers, as well as classroom-tested games and puzzles detailing objectives, assessment tips, differentiation ideas and more. Teacher Linda Biondi also likes the suggested online game resources.

Help Students Discover Voice in Complex Text

Nancy Dean has created mini-lessons to help students come to a deep understanding of the often misunderstood concept of “voice.” The lessons are solid & implementable, using familiar excerpts from complex & engaging literature, says reviewer Sarah Shah.

Motivating Struggling Learners for Success

Barbara Blackburn provides easily executable concrete examples, stories and strategies for teachers to help students become more motivated, connected and successful in school. Special education teacher Laura Von Staden’s favorite story: the Blue Ribbon Ceremony.

How Connected Educators Use Social Media

Reviewer Susie Highley put what she learned in What Connected Educators Do Differently to work in organizing an edcamp and remotely attending ISTE this summer. She highly recommends the book to newly connected and veteran social media users.

Write Now! Kate Messner on Teachers & Writing

Kate Messner’s 59 Reasons to Write helps teachers who want to write get started and keep at it. Educator Kevin Hodgson reports every chapter is knee deep in advice from Messner and other teachers and writers. And the book is packed with opportunities to write.

A Comprehensive Guide to Peer Coaching

Pam Robbins’ Peer Coaching offers recent research, broad questions and discussions, and practical applications which coach Holly Foley believes can advance student achievement while supporting professional growth and contributing to positive school culture.

Nonfiction Strategies To Engage Students

Lori G. Wilfong’s Do This–Not That take on nonfiction can guide teachers as they enhance their repertoire of strategies to help students think deeply and synthesize what they are reading. The activities and action steps make this book a keeper, says Linda Biondi.

How Expert Principals Make Tough Decisions

Dionne V. McLaughlin’s process of continually directing the reader through the decision making process with guidance from 21 expert principals is what makes this book a useful tool for any novice or aspiring principal, says assistant principal Bret Olson.