Books Like The Teacher's Funeral
Families who loved The Teacher's Funeral by Richard Peck often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved The Teacher's Funeral by Richard Peck often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child expresses frustration with the constraints of school or dreams of a life far away from their current responsibilities. It is a perfect choice for the student who feels that the classroom is a cage and that their 'real life' is waiting for them elsewhere. Set in 1904 Indiana, the story follows fifteen-year-old Russell Culver, who hopes the death of his teacher will finally mean the end of his education and a ticket to the Dakotas. Instead, his older sister Tansy takes over the one-room schoolhouse, forcing Russell to confront his own potential and the value of hard work. At its heart, this is a story about the transition from childhood rebellion to mature ambition. Richard Peck uses humor and historical detail to explore themes of sibling dynamics, community expectations, and the unexpected ways a good teacher can change a person's trajectory. It is age-appropriate for middle schoolers, offering a witty but grounded look at the importance of showing up for one's own life, even when it feels mundane.
