School Readers

What are teachers reading? Sal Flint talks to Jackie Houghton

Consililum Education library specialist, Sal Flint continues her column – School Readers – in which she talks to educators about their favourite books. This month’s Reader is Jackie Houghton, Principal of Garden International School in Rayong, Thailand.

Why ‘School Readers’?

We all urge kids to read, but how has reading shaped our own personal and professional lives? I want to know which four books have most influenced the people I talk to – an unforgettable children’s book, a novel, a work of non-fiction and a ‘go-to’ book about education.

This month’s School Reader is Jackie Houghton. Jackie was born and educated in the United Kingdom. She holds a B.Ed (Hons) in Biology and Educational Studies from Liverpool University, as well as a PGCE in Educational Studies International from Oxford Brookes University.

Jackie is a highly regarded educator with over 30 years of experience in senior leadership positions at three great international schools in Thailand. She is currently the Principal of Garden International School, Rayong. She is an instructional leader who is passionate about promoting child-centred education, where students are given the opportunity to learn from first-hand experience.

Jackie and I hit it off right away when I first arrived at work in Bangkok. Our families quickly became great friends, and we’ve shared countless laughs, adventures and holidays together. Our children have grown up side by side, and we continue to cherish the close bond we’ve formed over the years.

Jackie’s ‘four books’

(Click the book cover to follow the link to Amazon)

1. Gail Honeyman: Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine

“I loved the characters in this book. I firmly believe that character drives the plot and not the other way around. Eleanor was strong, vulnerable, flawed, and wise all at once. I’ve seldom come across a book that could make me laugh and cry within a few pages. If you haven’t read this book, it is well deserving of its accolade as book of the year.”

What it’s about:

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine follows the story of the titular character, Eleanor, who is anything but fine. She is a socially awkward and routine-driven woman who works in an office and leads a solitary life. As readers, we observe her struggles with her past and empathise with her, as she finds it difficult to navigate social interactions. As the reader follows Eleanor’s journey towards self-discovery and healing, the narrative explores themes of loneliness, trauma, mental health, and the importance of human connection.

2. Jung Chang: Wild Swans

‘’This book is truly beautiful. It’s only now, as I reflect on my choices that I realise it’s completely character-driven too. Wild Swans offers profound insight into a crucial period in history through the eyes of three female characters: Grandmother, Mother, and Daughter. It describes their strength and determination in the face of horrendous adversity. This is the kind of book that leaves an indelible mark and is impossible to forget.’’

What it’s about:

Wild Swans by Jung Chang is a true story that spans three generations of Chinese women: the author, her grandmother, and her mother. It provides an intimate portrayal of their lives from 1909 to 1978, offering profound insights into Chinese history, society, and the extraordinary challenges they faced during that time. The narrative weaves together personal experiences with historical events, creating a fascinating account of resilience and determination.

3. Brene Brown: Dare to Lead

“Choosing this book took careful consideration, given its popularity and accessibility. Although I briefly considered opting for something more highbrow and academic, I ultimately decided to share this gem for its outstanding qualities. Brimming with common sense, wisdom, and profound respect for risk-takers, it proved to be incredibly inspiring on every page. Whenever I have a moment of self-doubt about my role as a leader, it is a book I return to, with the guarantee it will provide guidance and inspiration. One of my favourite quotes is: “Clear is Kind. Unclear is Unkind.”

What it’s about:

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown focuses on the concept of daring leadership and the skills required to become a brave leader. It emphasises that leadership is not about titles or power, but about the willingness to lead with courage and wholeheartedness. The central theme revolves around embracing vulnerability, trust, values, and resilience as crucial leadership qualities.

4. J.M. Barrie: Peter Pan

“Peter Pan is the first chapter book that I ever read. To this day, I can remember the sense of accomplishment and achievement when I turned the final page. The themes of good winning out over evil and the importance of family are as dear to me now as they were to me then. I often share my love for Peter Pan with my students and constantly encourage them to read. Reading is, without doubt, the key to success.”

What it’s about:

Peter Pan is a story about a mischievous boy who can fly and refuses to grow up. The character was created by J. M. Barrie. It first appeared in his novel “The Little White Bird” in 1902. The story begins in the nursery of the Darling household in London, where Peter Pan and the fairy Tinker Bell surprise the children, taking them to the magical world of Neverland. The character of Peter Pan has become a symbol of youthful innocence and escapism.

What Jackie is reading at the moment:

Fiction: The Women by Kristin Hannah

Non-Fiction: Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff and It’s All Small Stuff by Richard Carlson

Teaching WalkThrus Five-Step Guides to Instructional Coaching by Tom Sherrington and Oliver Caviglioli

Sal Flint, is a Senior Consultant specialising in school library development at Consilium Education.