Mr. Keating and me five or so years ago, holding each other’s first published book.
Just rediscovered this picture. I think about him most days I sit down to teach or write.
In honor of National Teacher Appreciation Day, we’ve curated six thoughtful gifts for the ultimate summer recharge. At the top of our list is a book that every educator will appreciate:
1) THE OPTIMISTS by @brian.platzer is the perfect companion for a quiet afternoon.
2) A Weighted Bookmark for hands-free reading.
3) A Bookmark Keeper to organize their collection of literary placeholders.
4) A Reading Lamp to help them dive into a story long after the school day ends.
5) A Cozy Blanket to create the perfect reading nook.
6) A "Currently Reading" Scented Candle to signal to the household that the teacher is officially on a break.
Give the gift of a great read and the essentials to truly unwind with it.
National Teacher Appreciation Day 2026; Brian Platzer; THE OPTIMISTS; Gifts for Teachers; Educator Gift Guide; Summer Reading List; Reading Accessories; Bookish Gifts; Page One Media.
Brian Platzer’s The Optimists understands that memory doesn’t move in a straight line, and that time in fiction doesn’t need to either.
We had a great conversation with Brian about the novel’s structure, the real-life friendship behind it, and what it means to be optimistic even at the end of a life.
Read our reflections and watch the full interview on the Author & Co. Substack! Link in bio.
This conversation is part of the Author & Co. interview series, where we speak with authors about the themes of time and weather in their writing.
#authorinterview #theoptimists #substackreads #newfiction #littlebrown
On today’s episode of Books Are My People: a podcast for book lovers, I speak with Brian Platzer of the recently published, The Optimists. We discuss who influenced the creation of his protagonist, whether or not optimism can be taught and a great many other topics such as the anxiety-inducing exam I was assigned in sixth grade.
Rebecca Lehmann, author of The Beheading Game shares a guest author recommendation. Scroll through my recent posts for a chance to win a copy of her novel.
And Sheila Yasmin Marikar, author of Incidentals also recommends a favorite read.
Do you think optimism can be taught? Did you have a teacher who changed your life?
Link to listen in bio.
@brian.platzer ’s novel THE OPTIMISTS was just reviewed in the New York Times Book Review. I interviewed him live at the Whitby about his beloved teacher, who fell victim to a stroke and whom he visited for years afterwards. Tune in today.
Your next favorite novel has arrived. THE OPTIMISTS by @brian.platzer is now available!
Follow the ambitious, big-hearted story of Mr. Keating and his star student, Clara Hightower, as their lives intertwine over three decades. From the classrooms of lower Manhattan to the heights of Silicon Valley, this novel is a profound meditation on learning, legacy, and the lessons that stay with us forever.
Swipe through our Reviews Spotlight to see what critics have to say!
Photo: @seansime
The Optimists; Brian Platzer; New Fiction 2026; Book Reviews; Literary Fiction; Silicon Valley Stories; Teacher Student Legacy; Must Read Books; Novel Recommendations; Modern Literature; Manhattan Authors; Book Carousel; Review Spotlight
