I think the teachers who choose Stewart books don’t necessarily know how to teach down very well, so that would probably be reflected in their lectures, too. In multi-variable calculus I had a Stewart book and the professor put me to sleep. I spent a lot more time figuring it out on my own than I should have.

I was too naive to do so, but if anyone out there is in a class and the official suggested book doesn’t help you, ask the Internet for a respected alternative.

I had good teachers and Stewart and did pretty well (2001-ish, not sure how that translates, just one counter point - sorta)