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What It's Really Like
From the bestselling author of Teacher Misery, comes a collection of outrageous stories from other teachers. In this book, you’ll find a bit of everything including the usual helicopter parents and awful administration, horrendous student behavior with no consequences, and crazy-ass parents and their insane requests. But you’ll also find weirdly entertaining stories about a little kid with a foot fetish, a group of teachers chasing a naked kid around the school parking lot, and two pregnant sisters fighting over the same baby daddy on the first day of school. There’s plenty of gross stuff, like all the strange places kids put their poop and dirty maxi pads, a Barbie in a butthole, and kids who masturbate in class and hump desks. Unlike her other books, Morris included a sprinkling of tales that will break your heart and a few that will give you the warm and fuzzies we all need to keep going. This book is hilarious, shocking, heartwarming, sad, gross, and sometimes inspiring because that is what teaching is really like.
- GenresNonfictionEducation
372 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2020
6 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
Jane Morris
9 books48 followersJane started teaching high school English in 2007 with stars in her eyes and hope in her heart, ready to inspire every jaded adolescent and save the world through literature. Within the first few weeks, she realized that the job was more than she bargained for and would probably lead to her early death.
To cope with the chaos, she started making sarcastic jokes about teaching on social media, and she was relieved to find an entire community of teachers who were also outraged and miserable in a profession that was nothing like they imagined it would be.
The Teacher Misery community has grown to over 450K followers across multiple social media platforms, and four comedic teaching memoirs in print.
To cope with the chaos, she started making sarcastic jokes about teaching on social media, and she was relieved to find an entire community of teachers who were also outraged and miserable in a profession that was nothing like they imagined it would be.
The Teacher Misery community has grown to over 450K followers across multiple social media platforms, and four comedic teaching memoirs in print.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 66 reviews
November 23, 2020
Funny in sections but overall a real downer. A book of faculty room venting and gripes. My 42 years as a teacher were rarely like this. Please DON'T give to someone planning on teaching in the near future.
June 18, 2020
This book compiles a huge range of teaching stories - some horrifying and some humorous - from teachers across America. What this book does really well is effectively paint the picture of how challenging teaching can be when faced with students, parents and administrators - all with different expectations and value systems.
However, as a teacher something about this book didn't sit well with me. I think it's because I couldn't quite work out what the author was trying to do: was I meant to laugh? Be outraged? Be sad? Whilst there were many stories which I recognised from my own and colleagues' careers and could laugh at wryly, there were other parts that didn't feel appropriate - whilst they might accurately reflect what can go on in the classroom, when written alongside humorous anecdotes, the overall message was disturbing. In particular there was a story where a child exhibited sexual behaviour and the teacher chose not to report it because it was so bizarre. I couldn't work out why this kind of story was included and it made me feel uncomfortable about the choices made by the teacher - but it didn't feel like that was meant to be the takeaway of the story.
Overall I would say this is worth reading to show the challenges faced by many in schools on a daily basis, but perhaps it is too close to the bone for some teachers themselves.
However, as a teacher something about this book didn't sit well with me. I think it's because I couldn't quite work out what the author was trying to do: was I meant to laugh? Be outraged? Be sad? Whilst there were many stories which I recognised from my own and colleagues' careers and could laugh at wryly, there were other parts that didn't feel appropriate - whilst they might accurately reflect what can go on in the classroom, when written alongside humorous anecdotes, the overall message was disturbing. In particular there was a story where a child exhibited sexual behaviour and the teacher chose not to report it because it was so bizarre. I couldn't work out why this kind of story was included and it made me feel uncomfortable about the choices made by the teacher - but it didn't feel like that was meant to be the takeaway of the story.
Overall I would say this is worth reading to show the challenges faced by many in schools on a daily basis, but perhaps it is too close to the bone for some teachers themselves.
August 25, 2020
Any high school student who thinks they want to be a teacher needs to read this book. It is sooooooo spot on. You read stories about the horrible administrators and awful parents and then read stories about students who love us. Every day is that roller coaster. This profession is not for the weak.
The reason why I didn’t give it a 5/5 is because some of the screenshots were very hard to read. I’ve been teaching for over 25 years and my eyes aren’t what they used to be.
The reason why I didn’t give it a 5/5 is because some of the screenshots were very hard to read. I’ve been teaching for over 25 years and my eyes aren’t what they used to be.
July 26, 2023
I am a teacher and I truly do like my job. However, it’s not always rainbows and sunshine. I love the Teacher Misery books because they do have both the good and the bad but it it’s reassuring to know that some stuff in the field is not just me.
October 6, 2020
This is it. This is what teaching is truly like. Hilarious, horrible, and slightly makes me hurt inside from some of the bullshit teachers put up with.
July 6, 2022
If you are a teacher, want to become a teacher, have a close relationship with a teacher, have a child in school, or just want to put yourself in teachers’ shoes…read this (and Teacher Misery & More Teacher Misery if you haven’t yet)
December 30, 2020
A mixed bag of stories definitely not written for the faint of heart!! Best read in small doses due to sensory overload particularly for fellow teachers.
Bought this along with 2 others by this author and read it last. (Teacher Misery & Crap My Students Make) By comparison, her first was all bad stories that would deter many a would-be teacher from entering the profession, while this book offered a few positive stories. While true, they are one-sided, often grotesque, and very disheartening tales but are told by a teacher who is still teaching while using a pseudonym to write about her experiences. I assume mostly teachers or those in “helping professions” would probably understand why she hasn’t quit yet despite all of the “misery.” While none were fantastic, many of these anecdotes held my interest as a teacher and I could identify with some issues and quotes from parents and administrators. However, had I known what I was buying and had been able to skim these books in a book store, I probably would have just read from the Teacher Misery website or maybe just gotten this one instead of all 3. The perils of buying books online!
Don’t be fooled by the description or comedic praise online as there were only a handful of positive stories sprinkled throughout this unbalanced collection of upsetting essays, lists, emails, texts etc. I did not find it hilarious and laugh out loud funny possibly because it hit to close to home. But mostly I think because the level of disrespect is increasingly worse and I felt it as I read it.
Again as a teacher reading, I found it best to read in small doses and stop when I felt my blood boiling in frustration at the administration, parents, or students described. Particularly after many of the middle and high school stories, included verbal and physical harassment including a whole chapter on sexual harassment. The language and disrespect towards teachers is sadly not surprising but extremely appalling, disgusting, and infuriating. Perfect for bathroom reading, as are her other books.
This book is also filled with many, many essays involving a plethora of bodily functions and fluids. I don’t enjoy being repeatedly grossed out with tales of chain reaction vomiting, dirty tampons, condoms, poop, and blood. And yes I’m aware that it is happening and teachers deal with it. It’s just overload and not enjoyable to read some of this junk. As in her other books, foul language is ever-present and unavoidable though 9 out of 10 times unnecessary to the stories.
The last chapter was submitted about a month into Covid-19 quarantine/shutdown and contained some material about the pitfalls of online teaching and home/school communication during a pandemic. It dove into the complications teachers experience with their own children at home and various submitted stories about the range of responsibilities laid on teachers throughout the US. It ended with both positive and negative student/parent views of the role of teachers in our society today. (Well in March/April 2020). Something tells me she’s going to have a heaping pile of submission from Aug/Dec 2020 alone.
Bought this along with 2 others by this author and read it last. (Teacher Misery & Crap My Students Make) By comparison, her first was all bad stories that would deter many a would-be teacher from entering the profession, while this book offered a few positive stories. While true, they are one-sided, often grotesque, and very disheartening tales but are told by a teacher who is still teaching while using a pseudonym to write about her experiences. I assume mostly teachers or those in “helping professions” would probably understand why she hasn’t quit yet despite all of the “misery.” While none were fantastic, many of these anecdotes held my interest as a teacher and I could identify with some issues and quotes from parents and administrators. However, had I known what I was buying and had been able to skim these books in a book store, I probably would have just read from the Teacher Misery website or maybe just gotten this one instead of all 3. The perils of buying books online!
Don’t be fooled by the description or comedic praise online as there were only a handful of positive stories sprinkled throughout this unbalanced collection of upsetting essays, lists, emails, texts etc. I did not find it hilarious and laugh out loud funny possibly because it hit to close to home. But mostly I think because the level of disrespect is increasingly worse and I felt it as I read it.
Again as a teacher reading, I found it best to read in small doses and stop when I felt my blood boiling in frustration at the administration, parents, or students described. Particularly after many of the middle and high school stories, included verbal and physical harassment including a whole chapter on sexual harassment. The language and disrespect towards teachers is sadly not surprising but extremely appalling, disgusting, and infuriating. Perfect for bathroom reading, as are her other books.
This book is also filled with many, many essays involving a plethora of bodily functions and fluids. I don’t enjoy being repeatedly grossed out with tales of chain reaction vomiting, dirty tampons, condoms, poop, and blood. And yes I’m aware that it is happening and teachers deal with it. It’s just overload and not enjoyable to read some of this junk. As in her other books, foul language is ever-present and unavoidable though 9 out of 10 times unnecessary to the stories.
The last chapter was submitted about a month into Covid-19 quarantine/shutdown and contained some material about the pitfalls of online teaching and home/school communication during a pandemic. It dove into the complications teachers experience with their own children at home and various submitted stories about the range of responsibilities laid on teachers throughout the US. It ended with both positive and negative student/parent views of the role of teachers in our society today. (Well in March/April 2020). Something tells me she’s going to have a heaping pile of submission from Aug/Dec 2020 alone.
July 20, 2020
This book was probably the most accurate picture of teaching I have ever read. It made me laugh, cry, and feel frustrated. I saw a review that mentioned that the reader didn’t understand what the author was trying to do by placing a story that was hilarious next to one that was heartbreaking. I think I understand why she did this, though.
To me, the ups and downs in this book are reflective of what teaching really is. For example, one day last year, I spent my prep period crying after my 8th graders left because they were so rude and disrespectful. Then, the next day, they threw me a surprise party, complete with presents, snacks, and decorations based on my favorite book series. Some days, I may begin my day really wanting to quit due to the expectations of admin or parents, but that same day, a kid might bring me a friendship bracelet or a painting, and I‘ll remember why I am there. One day, my class will seem bored to tears, and I feel like I’m a bad teacher, but then the next day, my class is fully engaged and actively discussing a novel. And sometimes, when they are the most engaged, a mouse will suddenly shimmy down a wire, and everyone will need to scream and stand on their desks or try to catch the mouse.
Teaching isn’t for everyone, but I’m happy to finally have a book that doesn’t sugar-coat it. I love that the author took contributions from so many different teachers and gave a voice to people who will probably never have the time to write a whole book. I also let my mom borrow the book, and it is giving her a window into my world at school. She has a deeper understanding of what I go through each day, and that has made us even closer.
To me, the ups and downs in this book are reflective of what teaching really is. For example, one day last year, I spent my prep period crying after my 8th graders left because they were so rude and disrespectful. Then, the next day, they threw me a surprise party, complete with presents, snacks, and decorations based on my favorite book series. Some days, I may begin my day really wanting to quit due to the expectations of admin or parents, but that same day, a kid might bring me a friendship bracelet or a painting, and I‘ll remember why I am there. One day, my class will seem bored to tears, and I feel like I’m a bad teacher, but then the next day, my class is fully engaged and actively discussing a novel. And sometimes, when they are the most engaged, a mouse will suddenly shimmy down a wire, and everyone will need to scream and stand on their desks or try to catch the mouse.
Teaching isn’t for everyone, but I’m happy to finally have a book that doesn’t sugar-coat it. I love that the author took contributions from so many different teachers and gave a voice to people who will probably never have the time to write a whole book. I also let my mom borrow the book, and it is giving her a window into my world at school. She has a deeper understanding of what I go through each day, and that has made us even closer.
May 20, 2020
What It's Really Like by Jane Morris is, at times, a hilarious, heartbreaking, outrageous and terrifying look into what teachers face on a daily basis in America's classrooms. It was also a bit overwhelming to realize the current state of our education system, and the way our society has failed teachers.
The author does a good job of balancing the bad with the good, the hilarious with the horrifying, and reminding the reader that teachers are among the most compassionate and patient people in the world. I seriously laughed out loud in several places, only to be brought nearly to tears a few pages later.
The stories in What It's Really Like come from a wide range of teachers in a wide range of educational situations and circumstances, from elementary school to high school, private to public, rich and advantage to poor and disadvantaged.
My dad was a teacher when I was young, and he ultimately called it quits because of lack of administrative support and what he saw as a growing disrespect among both students and parents for the teaching profession. That was nearly 40 years ago. If this book is any indication, things have only gotten worse.
If you're a teacher, nothing in this book will be a surprise. If you aren't a teacher, this book just might change how you see the profession and the people who are called to teach.
This review is based on an advance copy read.
The author does a good job of balancing the bad with the good, the hilarious with the horrifying, and reminding the reader that teachers are among the most compassionate and patient people in the world. I seriously laughed out loud in several places, only to be brought nearly to tears a few pages later.
The stories in What It's Really Like come from a wide range of teachers in a wide range of educational situations and circumstances, from elementary school to high school, private to public, rich and advantage to poor and disadvantaged.
My dad was a teacher when I was young, and he ultimately called it quits because of lack of administrative support and what he saw as a growing disrespect among both students and parents for the teaching profession. That was nearly 40 years ago. If this book is any indication, things have only gotten worse.
If you're a teacher, nothing in this book will be a surprise. If you aren't a teacher, this book just might change how you see the profession and the people who are called to teach.
This review is based on an advance copy read.
July 27, 2020
I found this through Netgalley. I am a retired teacher. I taught over thirty years. Sometimes I still think about the things I was required to do. The money I spent on my classroom and students. The disrespect. Odd thing is I really loved my job. The kids who made me smile. The magic moment you saw a child get it. Seeing students you had become teachers. Seeing them raising families. Setting out in careers you never heard of when you were their age. Then, I think of the sad ones who died. The ones whose addiction was bigger than them. The ones sitting in jail that you knew were on that path and wouldn't change.
I left burned out. Not from the kids. From being treated horribly. From not being able to deal with the class troublemakers because they can't be denied an education while their behavior denied all the others. I worked in a Correctional setting 12 years. The guards were little help. I really liked the kids. But trying to deal with other things in my life and watching out for everyone got to be too much.
I read this to validate all the teachers who get up everyday and do it. Who lay awake and worry. Who remember to smile because yours might be the only one a child gets all day.
Everyone needs to read this.
I left burned out. Not from the kids. From being treated horribly. From not being able to deal with the class troublemakers because they can't be denied an education while their behavior denied all the others. I worked in a Correctional setting 12 years. The guards were little help. I really liked the kids. But trying to deal with other things in my life and watching out for everyone got to be too much.
I read this to validate all the teachers who get up everyday and do it. Who lay awake and worry. Who remember to smile because yours might be the only one a child gets all day.
Everyone needs to read this.
January 16, 2021
A collection of stories and anecdotes from "the other side of the desk." Many stories in this collection are humorous, but some show the sad state of affairs in the world of public education, especially highlighting the lack of support given to teachers by many parents and administrators.
As a 21-year veteran in public education, many of the incidents rang true, but there were several that made me raise an eyebrow and cringe a little, because they came across as very defensive on the teacher's part and made me sure there was a very big "other side of the story." Some of the stories clearly showed a teacher lacking classroom management skills and not supervising their students well (the story of the Kindergarten classroom which had two students under the table with their pants down - and then the teacher left the room! being one such example).
Teaching is a hard gig, and this book is a quick read for educators who will likely commiserate with many of the stories and will be able to recall similar moments of their own. There is "salty" language throughout, and again, some scenes that bordered on negligence on the teacher's part. I would not blanket recommend this to educators, but there are many who would enjoy it.
As a 21-year veteran in public education, many of the incidents rang true, but there were several that made me raise an eyebrow and cringe a little, because they came across as very defensive on the teacher's part and made me sure there was a very big "other side of the story." Some of the stories clearly showed a teacher lacking classroom management skills and not supervising their students well (the story of the Kindergarten classroom which had two students under the table with their pants down - and then the teacher left the room! being one such example).
Teaching is a hard gig, and this book is a quick read for educators who will likely commiserate with many of the stories and will be able to recall similar moments of their own. There is "salty" language throughout, and again, some scenes that bordered on negligence on the teacher's part. I would not blanket recommend this to educators, but there are many who would enjoy it.
July 3, 2020
Thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing me this eARC. If you are a teacher or planning to be a teacher, this book is highly recommended. 'What It's Really Like' by Jane Morris has a compilation of personal and anecdotal experiences in the life of a teacher. These range from hilarious to cringeworthy to sublime. Parent's remarks which range from funny to abusive to downright racist, administrators descended from hell and finally students who leave no stone unturned to make the teacher wish that she should have done something else with her life. 😀
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I requested this book because last year I read the cult classic 'Up the Down Staircase' which made me want more. The writing style is simple and funny but I wanted some more stories where children did something truly special. These instances are far and few but otherwise this is a good book for laughs. Beware you may not want to eat or drink after reading some real life instances of children being crappy, literally! I skipped these entries honestly. While this is not comparable to Up the Down Staircase, this one do have it's moments.
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I requested this book because last year I read the cult classic 'Up the Down Staircase' which made me want more. The writing style is simple and funny but I wanted some more stories where children did something truly special. These instances are far and few but otherwise this is a good book for laughs. Beware you may not want to eat or drink after reading some real life instances of children being crappy, literally! I skipped these entries honestly. While this is not comparable to Up the Down Staircase, this one do have it's moments.
December 22, 2020
The blood, guts, and glory of being an educator; the moments shared in “What It’s Really Like” may sound fictitious, but are truly what we as educators experience. There is a reason why so many teachers enter the profession ambitious and wanting to make a difference, and leave battered, bruised, and unable to recognize their former selves before they stepped foot into a classroom.
This book, in my opinion, should be distributed to all college students who are considering to become educators, and given to people currently employed as teachers. In today’s society, educators are often treated as Whipping Boys, by both parents and administration. It is my hope, with more educators opening up about their personal experiences, and treatment of personnel is exposed more publicly, dialogue can finally begin on how to solve issues collectively, where everyone is “on the same team.”
Not only does this book bring to light the treatment of teachers, but it also shares some of the funnier or more peculiar incidents that can occur when being a teacher working with children. Having education majors read this will help them understand ahead of time that you truly need to expect the unexpected, and nothing is “off limits” to what can happen in a classroom.
For me, it was a relief to hear other peoples’ stories from all areas of the U.S., so I could realize I am not alone in my feelings.
Most of all, this is a pertinent reflection on our society at this time. Along with being entertained, it is my hope people will also reflect on the behaviors described throughout the book, so positive adjustments can be made to parenting, being a leader, or being a decent person towards others.
This book, in my opinion, should be distributed to all college students who are considering to become educators, and given to people currently employed as teachers. In today’s society, educators are often treated as Whipping Boys, by both parents and administration. It is my hope, with more educators opening up about their personal experiences, and treatment of personnel is exposed more publicly, dialogue can finally begin on how to solve issues collectively, where everyone is “on the same team.”
Not only does this book bring to light the treatment of teachers, but it also shares some of the funnier or more peculiar incidents that can occur when being a teacher working with children. Having education majors read this will help them understand ahead of time that you truly need to expect the unexpected, and nothing is “off limits” to what can happen in a classroom.
For me, it was a relief to hear other peoples’ stories from all areas of the U.S., so I could realize I am not alone in my feelings.
Most of all, this is a pertinent reflection on our society at this time. Along with being entertained, it is my hope people will also reflect on the behaviors described throughout the book, so positive adjustments can be made to parenting, being a leader, or being a decent person towards others.
May 29, 2020
I LOVED this book. I need to go buy Morris's two other books immediately because I flew through this. As a teacher, I've never read anything so relatable. I just kept thinking, "YES! They get it!". The stories are this book are something else entirely. They made me cry with laughter, but some just made me cry, they were so heartwarming. This book has it all, the stories that make you want to stay, and those that make you want to never walk into a school again. There were stories in this book that blew my mind, and honestly gave me an even deeper appreciation (if it's even possible) for teachers. Some enraged me, some touched my heart. Teachers and non-teachers alike should read this book to honestly see, what it is really like. Thanks to NetGalley for the free preview in exchange for an honest review, I'm so happy I was able to review this book.
May 21, 2020
This hilarious, sometimes disturbing, collection of stranger-than-fiction accounts from teachers all over had me laughing so hard I almost cried. Dear parents who told your child that Pepito beat mom because he was bad in school, you are parenting goals. To the typical bad parents, the “not my kid” parents, the “this is your job” parents, you are the reason teachers drink. Maybe work on that a tad because your teachers don’t want to deal with this, they’re not paid enough to deal with this, and the rest of the world doesn’t want to deal with your darling when he/she is released into society as an incapable adult.
To the teachers who tolerate this kind of nonsense and keep coming back for more, I salute you!
To the teachers who tolerate this kind of nonsense and keep coming back for more, I salute you!
August 8, 2020
What It's Really Like is an often hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking compilation of stories from teachers around the country. You'll read this book and laugh when you think of some of you own school room antics. These stories are made even more hilarious by that fact that parents have been at home for months dealing with their little angels. Those same parents who have defended their children's bad behavior, often making the teacher out to be the bad guy are now seeing that teachers don't have it easy at all. This book, combined with rearing and instructing children during a pandemic should give everyone a new appreciation of teachers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2020
I did not love this book, but I think it might be a good “bathroom book” or perhaps teachers might enjoy it more.
The book is a series of very short vignettes about being a teacher.
I had thought it would be more like an Erma Bombeck book, with a single voice running through the vignettes.
It was NOT FUNNY to me, just really SAD. If you’re unsure about a teaching job, just read this book and it will 100% put you off teaching.
The things described are so unspeakable and horrid!
It was almost what I’d call misanthropic.
So I can’t recommend this, unless maybe you’re a teacher who wants validation of the horror of your profession.
I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
The book is a series of very short vignettes about being a teacher.
I had thought it would be more like an Erma Bombeck book, with a single voice running through the vignettes.
It was NOT FUNNY to me, just really SAD. If you’re unsure about a teaching job, just read this book and it will 100% put you off teaching.
The things described are so unspeakable and horrid!
It was almost what I’d call misanthropic.
So I can’t recommend this, unless maybe you’re a teacher who wants validation of the horror of your profession.
I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 19, 2020
Man what a timely read. I don’t think many people can ever know the magnitude of what teachers go through. You think you know, but you really have no idea. This book gives such a glimpse into the appalling, absurd, outrageous, precious and hilarious moments a teacher goes through
I loved mixed within the stories the e-mails and images of letters and notes sent to parents just to prove the crazy people teachers really do deal with. Teachers are on the battleground of being a vital part of raising future generations. What we don’t realize is to raise the next generations you have to wade through the madness. Teachers deserve our thoughts, love, prayers and encouragement because they are so needed.
Jane Morris did such a great job compiling these stores so the reader can have a greater idea what teachers go through but lives you with the message of why teachers are so needed. Highly recommend this book!
I loved mixed within the stories the e-mails and images of letters and notes sent to parents just to prove the crazy people teachers really do deal with. Teachers are on the battleground of being a vital part of raising future generations. What we don’t realize is to raise the next generations you have to wade through the madness. Teachers deserve our thoughts, love, prayers and encouragement because they are so needed.
Jane Morris did such a great job compiling these stores so the reader can have a greater idea what teachers go through but lives you with the message of why teachers are so needed. Highly recommend this book!
June 11, 2020
What It’s Really Like is a must read for everyone, but especially for teachers. No one truly understand the toll the job of an educator unless it’s another educator. Our tribe understands and sees how motivational and demotivational the job is. To help us not feel alone Jane Morris has collected and shared these stories of triumph and misery in What It’s Really Like. You’ll laugh, relate, and get angry at these stories, because they are true! These stories happen in our buildings in their own way, which is what makes What It’s Really Like a must read!
June 12, 2020
Shocking, encouraging, mystifying, frightening, horrifying. All words that can be used to describe this book. Chock full of short stories and observations on teaching. I thought that I had seen a lot in my own career, but holy smokes, teaching is something else! After reading this, I have a whole new level of respect for teachers. Out-of-control students, demanding or uncaring parents, and little to no support from administration; it's all in here. I honestly do not know how teachers can keep their sanity, much less their jobs. A really good read!
July 28, 2020
I really enjoyed this collection of stories. It was a fantastic mix of the good and the bad. Her previous books often painted a dark light on being a teacher (and yes I understand that there are horrible things that happen) but there is also so much good that happens too. If you want a glimpse into the reality of teaching this is a great book to read. And the perfect end of summer holiday book for teachers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2020
After 30 years as an educator I found this book amusing and sadly true. Administrations have changed over the years that are less than helpful in defending a classroom teacher. The book is a good balance of the bad vs. the humorous and good. It should be read by any student thinking of becoming an educator for a real life look at a potentially fulfilling career. Many retired teachers could add their own stories to the ones in the book. Could easily be a What It's really like,part 2, 3 etc. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 15, 2020
If I learned anything from this book, its that teachers are not paid enough or appreciated enough for all they do.
What Its Really Like is a roller-coaster of stories - some heartwarming, some hilarious, and some absolutely horrific. Teachers have to deal with entitled students, ungrateful parents and clueless administration, and absolutely do not get the praise and recognition they deserve.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the free advanced copy of this title in exchange for an honest review. ♡
What Its Really Like is a roller-coaster of stories - some heartwarming, some hilarious, and some absolutely horrific. Teachers have to deal with entitled students, ungrateful parents and clueless administration, and absolutely do not get the praise and recognition they deserve.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the free advanced copy of this title in exchange for an honest review. ♡
February 19, 2023
This was a FABULOUS peek "behind the curtain" on the world we have created for our teachers in the US. Shocking, hilarious, unbelievable, and amazing all wrapped into one.
The mace, the vending machines, and the newborn baby grabbed my attention. Just when I thought I couldn't possibly have imagined anything worse, it took another twist or turn.
Bravo to Jane Morris for giving teachers a way to bring the situation in the trenches to light!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The mace, the vending machines, and the newborn baby grabbed my attention. Just when I thought I couldn't possibly have imagined anything worse, it took another twist or turn.
Bravo to Jane Morris for giving teachers a way to bring the situation in the trenches to light!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2020
I laughed so much at most of these stories and for some I think I am still recovering from the shock of them- maybe more than the teachers who experienced them, and there are those that make you stop and question the little things we do that impact children negatively.
So, it's an all-round book and a part of me couldn't help but wonder what the tales would be around the world and not just one country...I wonder...
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
So, it's an all-round book and a part of me couldn't help but wonder what the tales would be around the world and not just one country...I wonder...
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.
June 4, 2020
I will always give Teacher Misery five stars, as I know the outlandish stories that appear to be “to good to be true” are actually heartbreakingly true. I laughed out loud and cackled with glee as I read some of these stories, only because I myself have experienced them as a seasoned teacher. If you’re thinking about becoming a teacher, have a child in school, or just interested in the educational movement happening in the US, pick up this book.
June 26, 2020
Anyone who teaches or is thinking about teaching needs to read this book! A great mix of outlandish (albeit true) stories and poignant anecdotes tell what it is really like in classrooms today. As a teacher, I was taken back to many moments of my own as I stepped inside so many other’s classrooms. You’ll laugh out loud and maybe even gasp in surprise at the everyday antics that teachers deal with, along with the moments that keep us going. Well written and a quick read.
June 28, 2020
This collection of outrageous stories from teachers had me both laughing out loud and wincing in painful recognition..
From less-than-supportive admin, to Twilight Zone classroom situations, to batshit crazy parents, this book pretty much runs the gamut. It’s a short, entertaining glimpse of the most challenging profession out there.
Not only was it thoroughly enjoyable, this book also helped reaffirm my decision to leave the classroom and pursue other things.
From less-than-supportive admin, to Twilight Zone classroom situations, to batshit crazy parents, this book pretty much runs the gamut. It’s a short, entertaining glimpse of the most challenging profession out there.
Not only was it thoroughly enjoyable, this book also helped reaffirm my decision to leave the classroom and pursue other things.
May 18, 2020
Yet another spot on reflection about teaching. Unsurprisingly I can relate to these and thankfully some are beyond my experiences (thank the lord for that)! So funny in parts that I laughed aloud. 😂glad to read that my corona teaching experience isn’t as bad as some.
Pink car was so funny.
Some of the comments I already saw on the website which made me wish for new ones.
Pink car was so funny.
Some of the comments I already saw on the website which made me wish for new ones.
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