The bustling demands of the holiday season may not offer teachers that much of a vacation, but once things settle down, there may still be time to catch up on professional development books by the fire. 

Education Dive has offered teachers seven educational books, "covering the latest trends and issues in education" that teachers can take advantage of during the holiday break.

"In recent months, a number of books on topics ranging from charter schools and education in the inner-city to flipped and personalized learning crossed the Education Dive desk," Education Dive said. "There's a little something for everyone at all levels of education, so here's a rundown of each."

The first book, "A Light Shines in Harlem" by Mary C. Bounds, "chronicles the story of New York's first charter school, Sisulu-Walker Charter School in Harlem."

"Founded by equity fund manager Steven Klinsky, the school underwent a number of challenges, from gaining approval and applicants to establishing curriculum and finding enough space to operate — which is where minister Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker, a close friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., came in," the article said. "Walker allowed the school to initially operate in his church's community building. Ultimately, the school's success following its opening in 1999 helped fuel the education reform and charter movements, so this book is crucial reading for anyone on either side of the fence."

A second book, "You Can Do This: Hope and Help for New Teachers" by Robyn R. Jackson, " a former teacher and school administrator who now heads professional development provider Mindsteps Inc. — provides both in a clear and concise manner, sharing her own personal stories while detailing best practices and warning about bad advice and other pitfalls in a grounded, personalized manner."

"Everyone entering a new profession can probably use some help and some words of encouragement," the article said.

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Article by Kassondra Granata, Education World Contributor