The Learning Curve

by Melissa Nathan

I read this book many years ago when I was still teaching and really enjoyed a light hearted story about school teachers. Although it might appear a little dated in places, those of us who taught pre 2006, when the book was published, will have fond memories of some of the teaching subjects and strategies mentioned.

Before describing the storyline, I must warn readers of the acknowledgements which are at the beginning rather than the back of the book. They had me in floods!  Melissa was diagnosed with breast cancer early in her writing career.  A strong character, she refused to let the illness dominate her life and remained positive throughout. She was a writer of romantic comedy and wrote 5 novels before she sadly died at the age of 37, leaving behind a 3-year-old son.  The Learning Curve, her 5th and final book, was written at a time when she knew her life was coming to an end and that the book would likely be published posthumously. It was actually published just 2 months after her death. In her honour, a writing award was established to recognise quality comedy romance writers and this is presented annually.

Nicky Hobbs is a dedicated 30-year-old, much loved and ambitious teacher. She is idolised by her class, particularly 10-year-old Oscar Samuels. Nicky lives for her work but is beginning to crave a bit more adult company. She is surprised to be unexpectedly given the opportunity of becoming co deputy Head by her eccentric boss Miss James, alongside Rob, someone she shares a past romantic history with. Both are up for the challenge, but when Miss James announces her upcoming retirement, Rob is particularly determined to take over the mantle of running the school and it seems he will do whatever it takes. Although rather cold to Nicky in the past, putting his own desires above hers and making her feel small at times, Rob’s attitude suddenly changes, with talk of re-igniting their romance, marriage and babies leaving Nicky confused by his intentions and attentions!

Ten-year-old Oscar is a highly intelligent, moody little boy, but a favourite student of Nicky’s. He lives with his dad who works hard to provide an affluent lifestyle but this means he is rarely there for his son. He is a harassed single father doing his best but totally unable to see that Oscar isn’t bothered by expensive gifts and experiences – he just wants to spend more time with his dad.

Nicky believes Oscar’s Dad to be a heartless workaholic. Oscar’s Dad believes Nicky to be an interfering busybody, so what will happen when they finally meet?  Will sparks fly?

The book is quite long but filled with colourful characters and many reasons to smile, such as the community jigsaw challenge and how Rob manages to complete his task so easily! The storyline is a little predictable but a lovely light hearted gentle read.  What will Nicky do?  Will she fall for Rob’s change of attitude and interest? Will she put herself first and focus on her career rather than the marriage and family she secretly wishes for or will something happen between her and the workaholic neglectful father – Mark Samuels?

This book is a slow burn romance with an insight into various life choices and an interesting dilemma for Nicky.

Other books by Melissa Nathan – all of which I have enjoyed are: Pride, Prejudice and Jasmin Field, Persuading Annie, Acting up and The Nanny.