Lesson Learned

Sarah Lavely is a fifth-grade teacher whose heart is even bigger than her favorite coffee mug. Sarah is determined to help the class bully find a sense of belonging, even if it means giving up her prep time to sponsor yet another school club. Thankfully, Owen Gardner, the teacher across the hall, is always there for a vent session or a shared slice of cheesecake.

Meanwhile, Owen is struggling to balance teaching with his increasingly popular STEM podcast. When the prospect of becoming principal falls into his lap, he has a difficult decision to make: should he play it safe and accept the position, or take a risk and make the podcast his full-time gig? Becoming principal would eliminate any chance of ever turning his crush on Sarah into something more.

Everybody seems to have an opinion about their complicated friendship, from Sarah's boyfriend, Eli, to meddling students playing matchmaker. But nobody is as confused by their relationship as Sarah and Owen themselves. This year, things start to get a little messy, forcing them to address their unspoken feelings once and for all.

Contains mature themes.

© 2025 Tantor Media (Audiobook): 9798331951566

Release date

Audiobook: July 29, 2025