Here’s a helpful write-up regarding searches: Understanding "Educating Esme" – And What to Know About PDFs Educating Esme: Diary of a Teacher's First Year is a powerful, funny, and heartbreaking real-life diary by Esme Raji Codell . It chronicles her first year teaching fifth grade in a challenging Chicago public school. The book is widely used in education courses, book clubs, and by new teachers seeking inspiration and practical wisdom.