What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedAbbott Elementary
Quinta Brunson · Series · 2021
If you loved Abbott Elementary, start with Elemental (Peter Sohn, 2023) — a film on the same thread. Below: 4 books, 4 films and 2 podcasts, each matched to Abbott Elementary across media.
You loved Abbott Elementary for how it finds profound community and resilience amidst the systemic challenges of a broken institution.
Books on the same thread
Lessons in Chemistry
Bonnie Garmus · Book · 2022
Explores: Feminism, Sexism, Gender Roles.
Like the determined teachers in Abbott Elementary, Elizabeth Zott challenges the rigid conventions of her workplace while fighting to make a meaningful impact despite institutional resistance.
Black Schoolmaster
Hawke Jarry · Book · 1970
Shares 2 threads with Abbott Elementary: Education, Community.
This story mirrors the heartfelt mission of Abbott Elementary, focusing on a passionate educator navigating the complexities and structural hurdles of the public school system with hope.
The Hill We Climb: An Inaugural Poem for the Country
Amanda Gorman · Book · 2021
Explores: Hope, Unity, American Identity.
This poem captures the same spirit of resilience and collective optimism that defines the staff of Abbott Elementary as they strive to improve their community every day.
The Other Black Girl
Zakiya Dalila Harris · Book · 2021
Explores: Microaggressions, Code-switching, Workplace Politics.
If the workplace politics of Abbott Elementary resonated with you, this novel offers a sharp, satirical look at the microaggressions and challenges faced by Black women in professional environments.
Films on the same thread
Elemental
Peter Sohn · Film · 2023
Explores: Opposites Attract, Cultural Differences, Finding Common Ground.
Much like the diverse faculty at Abbott Elementary, this film explores the beauty of finding common ground and community while navigating the pressures of different cultural expectations.
Wonder
Film · 2017
Explores: Empathy, Bullying, Inclusion.
This film highlights the transformative power of a supportive school environment, reflecting the same empathy and dedication to student success found within the walls of Abbott Elementary.
School of Rock
Richard Linklater · Film · 2003
Explores: Underdog Story, Fish Out of Water, Improvisation.
Fans of Abbott Elementary will appreciate this unconventional teacher who, despite his unorthodox methods, brings a newfound sense of purpose and joy to his underfunded classroom.
The Devil Wears Prada
Film · 2006
Explores: Workplace dynamics, Ambition, Fashion industry.
The demanding office dynamics and the struggle to maintain one's integrity in a high-pressure environment will feel familiar to anyone who enjoys the workplace satire of Abbott Elementary.
Podcasts on the same thread
Nice White Parents
Serial Productions & The New York Times · Podcast · 2022
Explores: systemic inequality, educational reform, privilege and power.
This investigative series provides a deeper, real-world look at the systemic inequalities and power dynamics that shape the public school system featured in Abbott Elementary.
The Preamble
Sharon McMahon · Podcast · 2026
Explores: Critical thinking, Media literacy, Civic engagement.
If you admire the civic engagement and dedication to public service portrayed in Abbott Elementary, this podcast offers essential clarity on the complex issues defining our future.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is Abbott Elementary a workplace comedy?
Yes, Abbott Elementary is a workplace comedy. The series follows a group of dedicated teachers and their principal as they work together in a Philadelphia public school, focusing on their efforts to help students succeed despite the challenges of an underfunded environment.
What is the setting of Abbott Elementary?
The setting of Abbott Elementary is a public school located in Philadelphia. The show depicts the daily lives of teachers and staff who are passionate about their work, even when they face significant obstacles like limited funding and the challenges of the school system.
Who created Abbott Elementary?
Abbott Elementary was created by Quinta Brunson. The show premiered in 2021 and centers on the lives of public school employees who remain committed to their students despite being outnumbered and working within an underfunded educational system.
What is the main conflict in Abbott Elementary?
The main conflict in Abbott Elementary involves the teachers and their tone-deaf principal working in an underfunded Philadelphia public school. The staff must overcome the odds stacked against them to ensure their students succeed, balancing their love for teaching with the difficulties of their workplace environment.