Three new books!
Not mine. I've written enough for now.
I love getting books in the post, especially when they have been written by brilliant people who want to know what I think of them. Recently, I received three on the trot and I have been diving in to them. Rather than just do a general thank you, I want to share them with you so you can also see how fabulous they are.
I am well aware of the time and effort it takes to write any kind of book. The process is long and pernickety.
Hannah Wilson - Cultivating Belonging in Schools (Sage)
Hannah’s book is part of the ‘Little Guides’ series by Sage and, as with all the books in the series, it packs a punch in a small package. Hannah skilfully explores the topic of belonging in schools, guiding readers to examine their own positionality and to question what belonging looks like in their contexts.
Clocking in at around 14,000 words, it manages to cover definitions, the legal responsibilities of schools regarding equalities, the possibilities of belonging in classrooms and in staff rooms, as well as in society as a whole. It is precise and impactful, and filled with practical tasks that readers can complete.
I have had the pleasure of watching Hannah deliver training on belonging. This book encompasses her practical approach and personal stories that bring the topic to life. It’s a must have for leaders in schools.
Sarah Wordlaw - M is for Misogyny
I first came across Sarah’s work on the publication of her first book in 2023, Time to Shake Up the Primary Curriculum (Bloomsbury). Her second offering is just as brilliant. This time, she explores how leaders can identify and address misogyny in schools in a book that is beautifully researched and practical too.
At a time when misogyny is on the rise, teachers need this kind of guidance - accessible, reasoned and rooted in deep passion to support our young people. Sarah is an experienced school leader and, fortunately for us, also a brilliant writer. Her book will open your eyes - but also reassure you that we can tackle misogyny together.
Mixed, by Emma Slade Edmondson, is a banger of a book about mixed race identity, written for young people. It includes the voices of public figures who have a mixed race identity, who provide advice and guidance about the implications of living in a society that doesn’t understand difference particularly well.
I was sent a copy as I am taking part in a webinar on the book. I found myself smiling and nodding throughout the reading of it - and immediately wanted my mixed race nephew to read it because there is so much he might want to know about navigating this space.
My own children are mixed race - this book has given me a framework to talk to them about their identity. For that I am truly grateful. I want all educators to read it so that they can help their charges to belong in this world.
I love reading books written by educators. I will be trying to outline some over my favourites over the next few months. Keep reading!