We all have that favorite book or movie we always go back to, and so do teachers! From mysteries that will keep you hooked until the very last page to heartening comedies to make you laugh out loud, here are some of the books and movies that PCS teachers are into.
When you think of an English teacher, “reading” is probably one of the first words that come to mind. Well, Ms. Abi is no exception — when it comes to books, she has a long list of favorites, from well-known classics to contemporary authors. At the top of said list is a novel that you have probably heard of before — The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. One of the reasons that she particularly enjoys this book is because of the writing style of the author; she explained that “[o]f all the authors of the 20s, Fitzgerald’s writing has always stood out to [her] as being both simple and nuanced, clean and full of artistry.” He is a unique writer with a distinct voice, as “he writes with both directness and feeling, which is a rare combination.” Moreover, Fitzgerald’s writing lingers with readers long after the last page has been turned, to which Ms. Abi can testify — quotes such as “within and without the inexhaustible variety of life” will stay with her for a long while. Additionally, The Great Gatsby reflects our society today; it is a “deeply American book [that is] still as relevant 100+ years later.” It highlights what we, as individuals and as a society, will do and risk for things like dreams, image, and wealth. Lastly, Ms. Abi also notes that ”the true antagonist is carelessness, another very American trait that is and always has been our own worst enemy.” Fitzgerald addresses these themes of The Great Gatsby “in a way which is poignant, elucidating, and timeless” — ultimately allowing individuals such as Ms. Abi to continue to appreciate this literary masterpiece today.
Whether you are taking her class or have just seen her around campus, you can probably put a face to Ms. Calame, PCS’ long-standing — and beloved — instrumental music teacher. But have you ever asked yourself what she does when she isn’t busy conducting the orchestra, teaching beginning band new notes, or jamming it out with Jazz band? After a long day at work, Ms. Calame likes to sit back with some favorite authors such as Robin Hob and Matt Haig, or explore the broad genre of Young Adult fiction. More recently, she read A Short Walk Through a Wide World by Douglas Westerbeke; it reminded her of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab as they were both “a continuous story. . . [but] told through a series of vignettes.” In particular, she liked how both of these books “show a single person making meaningful connections with a variety of people, even though they know that these relationships will necessarily end.” According to Ms. Calame, stories such as these remind us that “life is all about changing and growing. . . there is something worth celebrating in the impermanence of our experiences.” Ms. Calame enjoyed reading both A Short Walk Through A Wide World and The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue — and she recommends you try them, too!
Ever wonder what Mr. Gersh does when he gets a chance to relax at home and do something fun—like reading or watching movies? Maybe you can relate to some of his favorites, such as The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. His connection to this classic runs deep; many years ago, a friend from Tonga told him that “Tolkien first told the stories in The Lord of the Rings series to his own children.” Mr. Gersh was fascinated by the image of Tolkien “telling his children bedtime stories of the Hobbit and the dwarves battling Smaug” and figures that “[t]hey must’ve been absolutely enraptured; probably also terrified!” Ever since hearing this, he has resolved to, someday, share these stories with his own children — which is why he holds The Hobbit so close to his heart.
Hopefully, you now know a little more about what these teachers like to entertain themselves with — and, who knows, maybe it turns out that you have similar interests. So if you are ever on the hunt for a new book or movie, maybe take a moment to check these out!
