Sticky Notes: Memorable Lessons from Ordinary Moments

From bestselling author and middle school teacher Matt Eicheldinger, a collection of 100 true, uplifting short stories from the classroom that capture the meaning behind everyday encounters and the small lessons woven in-between.

USA TODAY BESTSELLER

What if the moments that shape our lives are the ones we almost overlook?

When middle school teacher Matt Eicheldinger had a student who wouldn’t speak at all, he decided to leave her a sticky note on her desk every day, each one with a funny cartoon or encouraging message. Years later, she returned to share she had saved every sticky note he had left her, leaving Eicheldinger to wonder what other extraordinary moments he missed from seemingly ordinary interactions and inspiring him to revisit the countless stories he had recorded throughout his teaching career

Sticky Notes presents 100 true stories drawn from years of Eicheldinger’s classroom experiences, unexpected encounters, and everyday moments that revealed extraordinary lessons about kindness, resilience, friendship, grief, and hope. Filled with humor, heart, and insight, these short, memorable vignettes remind us that small gestures often leave the greatest impact and that every person has something to teach us if we're willing to pay attention.

Whether you're a teacher, parent, mentor, caregiver, or simply someone searching for a little more hope in the world, Sticky Notes offers a powerful reminder that meaningful moments happen every day and that every story is important. Every single one.

• 100 true stories inspired by real classroom and life experiences
• Insightful observations from years spent working with students and families
• Encouragement for educators, parents, mentors, and lifelong learners
• Memorable reminders that small actions can create lasting change
• Stories that inspire reflection, gratitude, and hope

Open to any page, discover a story that stays with you, and find new appreciation for the ordinary moments that shape extraordinary lives.

Matt Eicheldinger is a middle school teacher, author, public speaker, and storyteller. His stories on social media have amassed more than 50 million views as he takes viewers through hundreds of memories he has collected over the years, many of which are from his teaching career. But these are not just stories for teachers. Through his reflections and insights, Eicheldinger shows us there is always a greater message within a story, we just need to be ready to see it.