Spitwad Sutras, by Robert Inchausti. This book inspired me to be a teacher a long time ago, but upon a recent reading it mostly inspired bitterness in me. In truth, that bitterness is actually a reaction purely from within me, as I can honestly say that the amount to be learned in this book is immense. For teachers or otherwise, the thoughts regarding language and social interaction are valuable in practical, every-day situations. The style of the prose is very down to earth and easy to read, and in the back are sections of interesting maxims and aphorisms, and a wonderfully detailed list of suggested readings.

We used to do this at the diner when it was slow between breakfast and lunch, but with less aesthetic effort and more flavored syrups and stomach aches