Ebooks MN Highlight: "Sticky Notes: Memorable Lessons from Ordinary Moments"

Available in Ebooks Minnesota, "Sticky Notes: Memorable Lessons from Ordinary Moments," is a USA Today bestseller written by Matt Eicheldinger.  Eicheldinger is a Minnesota-based author, former middle school teacher, and storyteller who gained national recognition for his humorous and heartfelt writing. He is best known for the Matt Sprouts series, a semi-autobiographical middle-grade collection that draws from his childhood experiences and classroom storytelling. His debut, Matt Sprouts and the Curse of the Ten Broken Toes, was initially self-published in 2021 after over a decade of rejections. The book later caught the attention of Andrews McMeel Publishing and became an instant New York Times and USA Today bestseller upon its 2023 re-release.

Eicheldinger taught middle school language arts for 15 years in the Wayzata School District, where he was known for using personal stories as a teaching tool. His storytelling approach resonated with students and eventually inspired his writing career.  In addition to his writing, Eicheldinger has become a prominent figure on social media, amassing over 100 million views on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where he shares engaging stories and insights from his teaching career. He currently lives in Minnesota with his wife and two children, and continues to write, speak, and connect with audiences nationwide.

"Sticky Notes: Memorable Lessons from Ordinary Moments" comprises 100 true, uplifting short stories drawn from his 15 years of teaching middle school, highlighting the profound impact of everyday interactions. The title originates from a poignant experience with a student who was nonverbal; Eicheldinger left her daily sticky notes with cartoons and encouraging messages. Years later, she revealed she had saved every note, underscoring the significance of seemingly small gestures. This incident inspired Eicheldinger to document similar moments, resulting in a collection that explores themes of friendship, grief, joy, and personal growth.

Each story stands alone, yet collectively offers insights into the subtle lessons embedded in daily life. Eicheldinger's reflections emphasize the importance of recognizing and valuing these moments, suggesting that deeper messages often lie beneath the surface of ordinary experiences. The book resonates with educators, parents, and readers who appreciate heartfelt narratives celebrating the human spirit and the transformative power of kindness and connection.