Elementary school teacher Done (Close Encounters of the Third-Grade Kind) mines his 33 years of experience for colorful stories and sound advice in this spirited teacher's survival guide. He focuses on integrating spontaneity and fun into the classroom as a way to foster passion and creativity, and lays out a wealth of "teachers truths" to do so, among them putting stuffed animals near books to make reading areas more enticing for younger students; making writing practice an "every day routine," which can be made more enjoyable by playing soft music in the background; and making geography lessons more personal by using such questions as "Where on the map have you been?" He offers wisdom on how to set up a classroom (making it comfy is key, so bring in a couch), and, for dealing with parents, establishing email boundaries is a good idea. Done emphasizes that the most important part of teaching is establishing a connection with students; instead of teaching a grade level, he writes, "eventually you realize that what you really teach is children." Well-crafted examples and pithy prose drive his points home. Done's experience will hearten those in the trenches and be a tonic for young teachers. Agent: Janis A. Donnaud, Janis A. Donnaud & Assoc. (July)

An award-winning teacher shares tips and stories from his 33 years in the classroom. After three decades teaching elementary school, Done has amassed hundreds of interesting stories about his students, and he demonstrates a strong grasp of what works (and doesn't) in the classroom. His goal for readers, especially new teachers, is "to encourage, enlighten, and empower--to offer advice, guidance, and maybe even a little wisdom from the perspective of an experienced teacher." The author shares amusing snippets of his interactions with students that show his deep compassion and consideration for each child. The only drawback is there are so many children that readers won't feel deeply connected to any child in particular--unlike Done, who obviously remembers each individual he taught with great affection. Interspersed with his recollections, the author offers practical tips on the art of teaching. These include getting to know your students by asking about their pets; how to handle recess, lunch duty, and show-and-tell presentations; and the importance of greeting children each day at the door. Done explains how to make a classroom warm and welcoming through furniture choices, lighting, and indoor plants, and he evenhandedly discusses the complex mechanics of working with parents. He also shares ample advice on lesson plans on a variety of subjects, including reading, writing, math, art, singing, and geography. Given the author's highly successful career, it's clear that his methods are proven to work. For teachers seeking inspiration, Done provides numerous stimulating concepts that can be incorporated into any lesson plan; for prospective or aspiring teachers, the author has plenty of insights into the ups and downs of teaching young children. All readers will have no doubt that Done chose the right profession. "If you are a teacher, or learning to become one," he writes, "my wish is that you also will have a rich and rewarding career." A well-rounded, satisfying look at the daily life of a teacher. Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Done, a veteran elementary teacher with 33 years in the classroom, shares his journey through the decades and explores the realities of what it means to teach from the heart. Each chapter focuses on a different teaching perspective: children, classroom, curriculum, craft, people, and challenges. Part memoir and part handbook, Done's work seamlessly blends tips and strategies with stories that will tug at readers' heartstrings. Though the title might remind readers of numerous introductory education books, this one is a treasure. Done is honest and raw and shares his successes and failures. He doesn't sugarcoat teaching. But somehow, he manages to highlight the most important part of the job: connecting with students. In his chapter about children, Done states, "And yet teachers know that love is a vital part of education. Good teaching is infused with it. The most successful classrooms are brimming with it. Love is the reason people go into teaching--love for a subject and love for children." VERDICT Whether readers are considering teaching as a profession, are mid-career, or are looking toward retirement, this book will inspire and remind many why teaching is still a fulfilling and rewarding profession.--Corey Hall