Great teachers in children's books

We believe that teachers do not get the appreciation they so often deserve. That’s why we’ve put together this booklist of our favourite teachers in children’s fiction. From the magical staff of Hogwarts to the gentle Miss Honey, this list is sure to help kids appreciate their teachers that little bit more.

  • Heave Ho

    by Sally Anne Garland 

    2025 3 to 5 years 

    • Picture books

    Cub has lots of big feelings. A simple and charming story about how play can help to manage overwhelming emotions. 

  • Olu’s Teacher

    by Jamel C. Campbell, illustrated by Lydia Mba 

    2024 4 to 7 years 

    Olu’s nervous about going to nursery – but luckily his teacher is the very cool Jay! A reassuring, gentle story to allay any worries about this first step. 

  • Super Goat Girl

    by Tracey Baptiste, illustrated by Dapo Adeola 

    2025 4 to 7 years 

    • Picture books

    In this comic-inspired picture book, Super Goat Girl realises she’s not like the other heroes in her new superhero school. As chaos ensues in the playground, it’s up to Super Goat Girl to discover what makes her super special and save the day.

  • This That What

    by Katy Ashworth, illustrated by Colleen Larmour 

    2025 4 to 5 years 

    • Picture books
    • Early Learning
    • ADHD
    • Neurodiversity

    An insightful book about creative, fizzy brains but also specifically children with ADHD, This That What presents a relatable heroine for many children who find focus difficult but have tremendous creative abilities. 

  • Planet Omar: Incredible Rescue Mission

    by Zanib Mian, illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik 

    2020 5 to 14 years 

    • Chapter books
    • Funny

    Omar and his friends launch a mission to rescue their favourite teacher and make a disturbing discovery: she has undoubtedly been abducted by aliens!

  • The Worst Witch

    by Jill Murphy 

    2013 5 to 9 years 

    • Classics
    • Fantasy
    • Funny

    Long before Harry Potter first went to Hogwarts, trainee witch Mildred Hubble embarked on life at Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches…

  • Matilda

    by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake 

    2016 5 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Classics
    • Fantasy
    • Funny

    This modern fairy-tale with a brilliantly inspiring young heroine is one of Roald Dahl’s best loved stories.

  • First Term at Malory Towers

    by Enid Blyton 

    2016 5 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Chapter books
    • Classics

    We’re rooting for Darrell Rivers as she starts boarding school, and learns to cope with her fiery temper and decide for herself which friends are genuine.

  • One Time

    by Sharon Creech, illustrated by Sarah Horne 

    2022 9 to 14 years 

    • Chapter books
    • Coming-of-age

    An inspirational teacher and a neighbour with a welcoming smile open up a world of new possibilities for Gina Filomena.

  • Ember Spark and the Thunder of Dragons

    by Abi Elphinstone, illustrated by Kristina Kister 

    2024 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Fantasy

    A cracking fantasy adventure featuring devious baddies, a golden flying bathtub, a host of magical creatures, a conspiratorial teacher, a heartbroken baby dragon and even an encounter with the Loch Ness Monster. 

  • Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

    by J K Rowling 

    1997 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Classics
    • Coming-of-age
    • Fantasy

    After the misery of life with his ghastly aunt and uncle, Harry Potter is delighted to have the chance to embark on an exciting new life at the Hogwart’s School of Wizardry and Witchcraft.

  • Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief

    by Rick Riordan 

    2013 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Chapter books
    • Fantasy
    • Funny
    • ADHD
    • Disability
    • Dyslexia

    In this leftfield comic fantasy novel, 12-year-old Percy Jackson discovers that the Greek gods of Olympus are alive and living in modern-day New York.

  • Vanya and the Wild Hunt

    by Sangu Mandanna, illustrated by Kristina Kister 

    9 to 14 years 

    • Fantasy
    • ADHD

    11-year-old Vanya is catapulted into a world of magic and monsters when she joins the enchanted school of Auramere. There, she must battle against the forces of the Old Ones and a dark family secret.. 

  • The Blockbusters!

    by Frank Cottrell-Boyce, illustrated by Steven Lenton 

    2025 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Around the world
    • Chapter books
    • Funny

    When Rafa swaps places with a film star, he embarks on an extraordinary adventure, which takes him all the way to Hollywood on a private jet. Bursting with humour, this larger-than-life tale is a compelling read. 

  • When the Storm Comes

    by Polly Ho-Yen 

    2025 9 to 14 years 

    • Thriller

    Four misfit students and their teacher are trapped in school during a flood. They must work out their differences and come together to save the day in this emotional and gripping story about friendship. 

  • Running My Own Race

    by Abena Eyeson 

    2025 9 to 14 years 

    • Coming-of-age

    Kofi earns a scholarship to a prestigious private school and must overcome bullying and academic pressures to achieve his dream of becoming a professional athlete. A moving and important story.