The Truth about Teaching
If you are looking for a book to rip your heart out and make you cry, let me introduce you to The Things That Matter Most by Gabbie Stroud. Before we begin, and this probably goes without saying with an introduction like that, but please check the trigger warnings.
I will also add that I have been recommending this to all of my teacher friends, and one of them found this very confronting and triggering. I do think all teachers should read this book, and also all of those people who are in any way connected to the education system. I also think our politicians would benefit from reading this one! This book is about the Australian system but I think there are many lessons and insights for those of us in New Zealand. I don’t think you could read this book and not feel huge compassion for all the teachers.
Right.. let’s jump in! The Things That Matter Most is a profound and deeply moving exploration of the challenges and triumphs of modern teaching. Stroud, a former teacher herself, brings a raw and authentic perspective to the story, highlighting the systemic issues in the education system while also celebrating the resilience and dedication of teachers. Through this book we learn about many of the systemic challenges faced by teachers, such as overwhelming administrative demands, standardised testing pressures, and lack of resources. Despite these hurdles, she vividly portrays the deep connections and moments of triumph that make teaching a profoundly rewarding profession. The book balances critique with hope, advocating for a more compassionate and holistic approach to education that prioritises the well-being and growth of both students and teachers. Stroud's narrative is a heartfelt call to action for meaningful reform in the education system.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to convey the emotional and psychological toll that teaching can take. This could be a good book for anyone considering teaching as a profession. Stroud does not shy away from discussing the burnout, frustration, and sense of inadequacy that many teachers feel. She provides a stark look at how those things mentioned above - standardised testing, administrative pressures, and lack of resources - can undermine the joy and purpose of teaching. Her candidness is both refreshing and heartbreaking, as it paints a vivid picture of the realities many teachers face.
I loved the writing of this one – it was difficult to put down, despite the difficult (at times) subject matter. I was well and truly hooked! The characters were also engaging and relatable, without being stereotypes. And of course, this book had me in tears, so prepare the tissues! It is difficult to delve too much into the plot without giving away spoilers, so trust me with this one and add it to your TBR because life is too short to read bad books.