Back-to-School Reading for Educators, Students, and Families in 2025
With rapid advancements in A.I., constantly shifting social trends, and students taking a more intentional approach to screen time, 2025 is shaping up to be an impactful year for students, educators, and families alike. To help everyone start the school year informed and inspired, we’ve curated a back-to-school reading list filled with thought-provoking books that spark meaningful conversations. From essential reads on A.I., digital, and media literacy to uplifting stories about identity and human connection, these suggestions are resonating with students, educators, and families around the world:
Books for Educators on A.I., Self-Care, and the Power of Modern Life Skills
Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with A.I.
As A.I. continues to reshape classrooms, careers, and conversations, Co-Intelligence by Wharton professor Ethan Mollick stands out as a must-read for anyone navigating the fast-evolving digital world. Instead of a scare and restrict approach, Mollick offers a practical, grounded guide to working with A.I., whether you’re a student, educator, or parent. With insights on how A.I. can serve as a “co-teacher, co-worker, or even creative partner,” this book empowers readers to approach A.I. with curiosity, caution, and optimism.
The book’s real-world examples help educators imagine how A.I. can be used as an assistant and thought-partner, so they can focus more on relationships and less on repetitive tasks.
“This is an interesting and useful book, and if you’re an academic or educator who’s trying to find a good strategy for dealing with the A.I. revolution, then I strongly recommend reading it.”
–Manny, Online Review
The Burnout Cure: Learning to Love Teaching Again
Teaching is one of the most rewarding jobs, but some days it can be overwhelming. In The Burnout Cure, educator and speaker Chase Mielke blends personal stories, psychological research, and practical strategies to help teachers reignite their passion for the classroom. Mielke doesn’t sugarcoat the hard parts of teaching. Instead, he offers humor, vulnerability, and tools for setting boundaries, building resilience, and rediscovering joy in everyday teaching moments.
With burnout rates rising across education, this book is a lifeline for educators who want to care for their students without losing themselves in the process.
“A great resource for educators, and humans, in general. Helped me get into a positive mindset going back to school – especially during the pandemic!”
– Vicky, Educator
The A.I.-Powered Classroom: A Practical Guide to Enhancing Teaching and Learning with Artificial Intelligence
As A.I. reshapes education at lightning speed, The A.I.-Powered Classroom offers educators a clear, hands-on roadmap for integrating artificial intelligence into everyday teaching. This practical guide demystifies A.I. tools and shows how they can personalize instruction, streamline administrative tasks, and support diverse learners, all while maintaining ethical and equitable practices.
“The A.I.-Powered Classroom is an exceptional resource that brilliantly bridges the gap between traditional teaching methods and the innovative potential of artificial intelligence. As an educator constantly seeking ways to enhance my teaching practices and engage my students more effectively, this book has been a game-changer.”
– Dustin, Online Review
Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection
By bestselling author Charles Duhigg, Supercommunicators dives into the subtle art and science of effective communication: the key to building trust, fostering collaboration, and unlocking leadership potential in any environment, especially schools. Drawing on decades of research in psychology, neuroscience, and real-world stories, Duhigg reveals how mastering communication goes beyond words: it’s about understanding emotions, intentions, and unspoken signals.
For educators, this book is a powerful tool to strengthen relationships with students, colleagues, and families. It offers actionable strategies for creating deeper connections, resolving conflicts, and inspiring positive change within the classroom and beyond.
“A guide to better conversation and deeper human connection. If you want to improve your communication skills at work and in life, this book is the place to start.”
– Arthur C. Brooks, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author
BONUS: Ready For Now: How A.I., Media, and Digital Literacy are shaping K-12 student learning and well-being
A.I. Literacy has quickly become a major focus in K-12 education, as some schools are advancing to support and align their communities, while others feel left behind. Read The Social Institute’s white paper, How A.I., Media, and Digital Literacy are shaping K-12 student learning and well-being, to discover a positive and proactive approach to A.I. Literacy that empowers school communities to move beyond passive, or even unethical, A.I. use, and toward purposeful, future-ready learning.
Books for Students
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business
Ever wondered why you scroll through your phone without thinking? Or why certain routines, good and bad, just seem to stick? The Power of Habit dives into the science of how habits are formed, and how you can rewire them to your advantage.
By breaking down real-life stories and brain science, author Charles Duhigg helps readers understand the “habit loop” (cue → routine → reward) and how tiny changes in your daily choices can lead to major growth. Whether you’re trying to build better study habits, spend less time on your phone, or become more productive, this book gives you the tools to take control of your actions.
“Just finished reading, and I highly recommend! Information is presented in a clear, useful way. Life stories demonstrate application. Well worth the investment of time and cost of purchase. NOT boring and dry; interesting, engaging and informative.”
– Lucene, Online Review
Connected & Engaged: How to Manage Digital Distractions and Reconnect with the World Around You
Let’s be real: distractions are everywhere. From text messages to TikToks, staying focused feels harder than ever, especially when your phone is always just a tap away. In Connected & Engaged, psychologist Dr. Lori Whatley helps students recognize how constant digital distractions are affecting their focus, relationships, and well-being, and what they can do about it.
This book isn’t about ditching tech altogether. Instead, it empowers students to build healthy habits, reclaim their attention, and become more present in everyday life. With tips grounded in psychology and simple action steps, Connected & Engaged is the perfect read for students who want to find more balance and still stay connected.
“Dr. Whatley’s book was quite an eye-opener for me in regards to how technology has become such a huge part of my family’s day-to-day lives. We will be implementing some new limits on the amount of time given to cell phones, gaming systems, and even TV.”
– Lorie, Online Review
The Four Agreements
The Four Agreements breaks down four powerful life principles that help you build stronger relationships, feel more confident, and stay true to who you are, even when things around you feel stressful or uncertain. Based on ancient wisdom, the book encourages students to think about the way they communicate, treat others, and talk to themselves.
The language is simple, but the ideas stick with you:
- Be impeccable with your word: Speak kindly and honestly, especially to yourself.
- Don’t take anything personally: What others say and do is more about them than it is about you.
- Don’t make assumptions: Ask questions instead of jumping to conclusions.
- Always do your best: Your “best” might change from day to day, and that’s okay.
“I read this book years ago, but the teachings in it still hold very true today. I recommended this book to my teen daughter, who loved the simple-to-understand, yet impactful lessons this book teaches. I would highly recommend this book to anyone of any age, but I feel it’s most impactful for those in middle and high school.”
– Parent of two
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
In a world full of distractions and pressure to do everything, Essentialism teaches a powerful truth: you don’t have to do it all, you just have to focus on what matters most. This young readers’ edition breaks down the art of saying “no,” making smarter choices, and creating space for the things that truly matter to you.
Whether it’s juggling school, extracurriculars, social life, or screen time, students will learn how to stop spreading themselves too thin and start using their time and energy more intentionally.
“In Essentialism, Greg McKeown makes a compelling case for achieving more by doing less. He reminds us that clarity of focus and the ability to say ‘no’ are both critical and undervalued today.”
– Jeff Weiner, CEO, LinkedIn
BONUS: Brain Rot!
If your student or child seems lost in the scroll and is looking to cut down on their screen time, Brain Rot! is the wake-up call they’ll want to read. This gripping illustrated adventure by Casper Pieters reveals how social media platforms use A.I.-enhanced algorithms to grab our focus and impact our emotions and identity. As Bindi and her friends battle a mind-twisting app, readers uncover the ‘why’ behind digital addiction and how to take control. No lectures, just a story. Engaging, empowering, and relatable, Brain Rot! turns passive screen time into active self-awareness. An optional educational guide extends the impact with questions and activities perfect for sparking real conversations at home.
“BRAIN ROT! instantly hooked my students—within two pages, they were all in. The characters felt real, the story felt urgent, and the tech-fogged world hit way too close to home (in the best way). But what truly made this book a standout teaching tool was the educator’s guide. It helped me turn every chapter into a springboard for discussion on digital distraction, emotional awareness, and even ethical tech use. We weren’t just reading; we were decoding our own lives.”
– Ms. Lauren C., Middle Grade Librarian
Books for Families
Digital for Good: Raising Kids to Thrive in an Online World
Instead of leading with fear, Digital for Good empowers parents to help their children become responsible, confident tech users. Written by CEO of the International Society for Technology in Education, Richard Culatta, this book reimagines screen time conversations, shifting from “how much” to “how well.” Culatta offers practical advice on how to guide your child toward using social media and tech to connect, create, and contribute.
“I read this book in an afternoon! It’s an enjoyable, sane, and totally do-able look at how to manage the fact that our kids WILL use the internet and WILL be active participants in this increasingly digital global society.”
– Mollie, Online Review
Growing Up in Public
Today’s kids are growing up in a world where almost every moment, from selfies to school achievements, can be captured, posted, and shared. In Growing Up in Public, digital parenting expert Devorah Heitner offers thoughtful, realistic guidance on how to help kids navigate this new normal with confidence, empathy, and strong values.
This book goes beyond screen time limits. It’s about teaching kids how to build a positive reputation online, recover from online missteps, and make smart choices in a world where privacy is limited but pressure is high. Heitner encourages parents to move from helicoptering to huddling, helping kids develop the critical thinking skills they need to thrive online and offline.
“Devorah Heitner provides a common-sense attitude that focuses on mentoring young people in the appropriate use of devices, social media, and online activities. Parents and educators can learn from the perspectives of young people, and develop plans for how to help kids manage the positives and negatives of life online.”
– Karen, Online Review
The Self-Driven Child
In a world of high expectations, fast-evolving technology, and nonstop notifications, students are more overwhelmed than ever. The Self-Driven Child offers a powerful reminder: when students feel a sense of control over their own lives, they become more motivated, more resilient, and mentally healthier.
Written by a clinical neuropsychologist and a test prep expert, this book uses science and real stories to show how parents can shift from helicoptering to huddling. It offers practical strategies to strengthen students’ self-agency, manage stress, and build confidence, at school and beyond.
“As a psychologist and mom of teens, I highly recommend this sensitive and science-based perspective on why empowering our kids to take control of their lives is so vitally important. Through straightforward and easy-to-understand discussions, along with relatable and humorous anecdotes, the authors take the reader by the hand and show us how easy it can be to help kids face their life, and their challenges, with more courage and drive.”
― Alicia, Parent and Psychologist
ChatGPT for Parents: How I Became a Healthier and Happier Parent With the Help of A.I.
In her thoughtful guide, Anastasiia Bartalevich explores how ChatGPT can alleviate stress, spark creativity, and foster deeper connections with kids. By treating A.I. as a smart sidekick, not a replacement, she shows how parents can regain mental space while staying intentional.
“This book is a refreshing and invaluable resource for anyone curious about how A.I. can enhance family life. Unlike most books about artificial intelligence that focus on technical details or theoretical concepts, this book is incredibly relatable and practical.”
-Gloria, Online Review
BONUS: Setting Family Standards
Every family has their own set of standards and ideas when it comes to screens and tech, which is why we encourage families to huddle together as a “team” and discuss which guidelines work best for them. Use this Family Standards Agreement to do just that and empower everyone in your family to set (and stick to!) high standards!
Books We Love
The Let Them Theory
In The Let Them Theory, author Mel Robbins popularizes a simple but powerful mindset shift: when people show you who they are or behave in ways outside your control, let them. This quick, impactful read encourages readers to stop over-functioning, over-explaining, and overthinking, and instead focus on protecting their own peace. For educators, students, and parents juggling competing expectations, this book offers a freeing new lens on boundaries, relationships, and emotional well-being.
“I loved reading The Let Them Theory! It taught me how to release control over what others say, do, or choose. A simple but powerful shift that promotes mental wellness and stronger self-respect. This theory applies to really every relationship we have with others. Highly recommend!
– Colleen, TSI Team Member
Brave New Words: How A.I. Will Revolutionize Education (and Why That’s a Good Thing)
What if artificial intelligence could make learning more personal, more creative, and more meaningful? In Brave New Words, Khan Academy founder Salman Khan explores how A.I. has the power to transform education for the better by supporting students, empowering educators, and opening up more opportunities for all learners.
With clear examples and an optimistic outlook, Khan explains how tools like A.I. tutors, personalized feedback, and smarter lesson planning can help every student succeed, all without replacing the essential human connection between teachers and students. The book emphasizes that the future of learning is not about choosing between people and technology, but about using both wisely to unlock potential.
“A.I. isn’t going anywhere, and we can’t ignore it. While it may have its challenges, it also offers great benefits for students, educators, and parents alike. This book gives educators and students so many actionable strategies for using A.I. as a thought partner to further their teaching and learning, and I think that is amazing!”
– Lydia, TSI Team Member
Curious about what is impacting your students online? Stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to our newsletter for weekly insights on the latest trends in tech and social media. In the meantime, check out The Social Institute’s Instagram @thesocialinst for tips, trends, and highlights when it comes to social media.
The Social Institute (TSI) is the leader in equipping students, families, and educators with modern life skills to impact learning, well-being, and students’ futures. Through #WinAtSocial, our interactive, peer-to-peer learning platform, we integrate teacher PD, family resources, student voice insights, and more to empower entire school communities to make positive choices online and offline. #WinAtSocial Lessons teach essential skills while capturing student voice and actionable insights for educators. These insights help educators maintain a healthy school culture, foster high-impact teaching, and build meaningful relationships with families. Our unique, student-respected approach empowers and equips students authentically, enabling our solution to increase classroom participation and improve student-teacher relationships. Through our one-of-a-kind lesson development process, we create lessons for a variety of core and elective classes, incorporating timely topics such as social media, A.I., screen time, misinformation, and current events to help schools stay proactive in supporting student health, happiness, and academic success.