Books + Films for Teachers This Summer

(Because your brain deserves rest and a recharge)

You’ve made it. The classroom is empty. Your inbox is blissfully quiet. You’re finally free to read something without a red pen in your hand.

Whether you're stretched out on a sun lounger or stuck under a washing pile thinking “this is my relaxation time”, here’s a round-up of three brilliant books and three film picks to feed your teacher soul this summer.

3 Books That Will Make You Think Differently – About Thinking

These aren’t education textbooks. They’re fascinating, readable, and full of insights that’ll change how you see your students, your decisions, and your day-to-day.

1. Thinking, Fast and Slow – Daniel Kahneman

If your brain ever feels like it has two modes—“GO GO GO” and “Wait… what?”—this book explains why. Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman explores how we make decisions, how bias creeps in, and why slowing down might just be your teaching superpower.

Perfect for: Curious minds who love a deep dive.

2. Blink – Malcolm Gladwell

This one’s all about snap judgments—and when they’re secretly smarter than slow thinking. Gladwell shares wild stories (think: art forgery scandals and war games) to unpack how our instincts work, and how to hone them.

Perfect for: Teachers who rely on gut feeling and want to understand it better.

3. Why Don’t Students Like School? – Daniel T. Willingham

Despite the slightly savage title, this is a warm, practical read from a cognitive scientist who wants teachers to understand how students learn—and why they sometimes don’t. It busts myths, offers real strategies, and reminds you that learning is a psychological process, not just a curriculum one.

Perfect for: Anyone planning lessons and wondering “why aren’t they getting it?”

3 Films to Watch If You’re Ditching the Books

Sometimes, your brain just needs popcorn. These three films all include powerful neurodivergent stories or meaningful self-care messages—and they’re brilliant to watch alone or with family.

1. A Brilliant Young Mind (2014)

Also known as X+Y, this British drama follows a young autistic maths prodigy navigating grief, competitions, and connection. Gentle, heartfelt, and beautifully acted.

Why watch: A tender portrayal of difference, struggle, and human connection.

2. Temple Grandin (2010)

Claire Danes stars as Temple Grandin, an autistic woman who revolutionised livestock handling in the US—and challenged perceptions about what neurodivergent people can do. It’s powerful, visual, and inspiring.

Why watch: A reminder of the brilliance that can emerge when we adapt systems, not people.

3. Inside Out (2015)

Yes, it’s animated. And yes, it might hit you harder than expected. This Pixar gem explores emotions, memory, and the importance of letting kids feel all their feelings. Also great if you’ve got children at home asking questions about why summer makes people “weird”.

Why watch: A sweet self-care story with sneaky life lessons for all ages.

Need Something Practical?

While you're in recharge mode, don’t forget your free Welcome Back Teacher Checklist – a tool to help September You stay calm, collected, and maybe even slightly less caffeinated.