Outstanding teachers offer their students new ways of looking at the world, and outstanding fictional teachers offer the same to their readers. Some, like Anagrams' Benna, delight with zany wordplay. Others, like Dracula's Van Helsing, can even strike fear into the undead. If NYPL gave report cards, these teachers would earn top marks.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Julian Morrow's erudition and charisma attract students to study the Classics, but he can't stop his students from murder.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
The eponymous heroine of this classic novel is a teacher-governess by trade until she gets to know her employer.

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
Miss Stacy always has a kind word and a twinkle in her eye for her students, especially the precocious Anne.

Anagrams by Lorrie Moore
Benna may make mistakes, like sleeping with an adult student, but she is also one of the funniest community college professors around.

The Woman Upstairs by Claire Messud
Nora Eldridge is angry, frustrated, and sometimes frustrating - but she goes above and beyond for her prize student and his family.

Changing Places by David Lodge
His ego and paycheck may outstrip his teaching skills, but Professor Morris Zapp has wit on his side.

Dracula by Bram Stoker
When there are vampires on the move, the monster-hunting Professor Abraham Van Helsing is the best guy to have on hand.

The Magic School Bus series
Ms. Frizzle is an eccentric and intelligent 4th grade science teacher who guides her students through adventures to teach them scientific concepts in this beloved book and television series.