🧡 The Myth of Normal by Dr Gabor Mate What if whatever we were feeling (both physically and emotionally) could be attributed to our socioeconomic situation? How have multiple social ills contributed to our health and well-being? Where do addictions come from? What can we do to raise healthier kids and keep mental illness at bay? The renowned physician and trauma specialist talks about this and much more in his seminal work on what it means to navigate the current social, economic and medical environments. Each chapter is as thought-provoking as it can be, so for me the best strategy is to approach it in installments. 🧡 An Introduction to Evidence-Based Teaching in the English Language Classroom by Lethaby, Mayne and Harries Can we actually measure the impact of our interventions in class? Can we say what definitely works and what doesn't? And what does science have to say? For instance, marking essays with green pen instead of red, does it make the difference? (Please, talk to me in the comments- red pen yay or nay?) The much-sought book for teachers and trainers alike, miraculously shared by a colleague, is a must-read. I've already dug evidence for some of my upcoming conference talks and anticipate more insights. 🧡 The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley One of those cozy detective stories that will put you into the British countryside with its afternoon tea, half-delapidated mansions and uptight gentlemen. Seen from the point of view of an 11-year-old wizz kid, the murder will unravel, among other things, the history of Penny Black, the first-ever postal stamp from the Victorian times. This is something you can read late at night or whenever you are tired and crave some distraction. I especially appreciate the subtle British tongue-in-cheek humor.