The books that I read mostly revolve around 3 topics: general non-fiction, parenting and homeschooling. I have a read a ton of books on homeschooling and yet, I can’t seem to stop reading more. Haha!
Here’s a list of my favorites. I will be updating this list regularly, so feel free to bookmark and come back to it after a few months!
Remember, the more you learn, the better equipped you are at teaching your kids.
1. Education: Does God Have an Opinion by Israel Wayne
Recommended for: Christians who are considering to homeschool with a Biblical perspective.
What I loved about it: The first half of the book is all about having a Biblical perspective at the core of your homeschool. The second half is a practical guide on how to apply this Biblical perspective in every aspect of your homeschool. Definitely one of my favorites and a book I’m sure I’ll reread more than once. “Education” is an easy read with a whole lot of meat!
2. For the Children’s Sake by Susan Macaulay
Recommended for: Those interested to explore Charlotte Mason’s method. It’s a great first introduction to Charlotte Mason’s principles and teachings.
What I loved about it: Charlotte Mason’s original works may be a little harder to digest for those who are just getting acquainted with her style of writing. Well, it’s been many many decades, after all! So, this book serves as a wonderful bridge for first-timers. It is also written from a Christian perspective, which I find very important.
3. When Children Love to Learn by Elaine Cooper
Recommended for: Those interested to go more in depth about Charlotte Mason’s method. Similar to #2 (For the Children’s Sake,) as it’s also a great first introduction to Charlotte Mason’s principles and teachings.
What I loved about it: Very practical suggestions on how to apply Charlotte Mason’s teachings in our modern lifestyle as 21st century parents. I loved how the chapters are divided according to each CM principle/practice (how education is an atmosphere, discipline, etc.) and each subject (Math, History, Shakespeare, Nature Study, etc.)
NOTE: I didn’t include any of Charlotte Mason’s original books here (although I definitely recommend them.) This is because I believe that if you are interested in CM, those books will already been on your list. However, if you aren’t really familiar with the CM method to begin with, then these two books may be a better first intro for you.
4. The Well-Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer
Recommended for: Those who are interested in applying the Classical method. It’s a very thick reference book that you’ll definitely be coming back to multiple times throughout your homeschool journey, if you are going the Classical route.
What I loved about it: It’s basically your handbook for Classic Education. A great introduction. It’s very well organized as well. I particularly appreciate how it is arranged according to stage (age range) and then, by subject. It runs you through all the basics and then provides you with so many practical ideas on how to incorporate the Classical method into the way you homeschool.
NOTE: This is a book that’s great to have on actual hardbound and not digital. I borrowed a copy the first time but I keep wanting to refer to it so I had a copy of the latest edition shipped. I haven’t received it yet (hence, the photo above) but once I do, I’ll update this picture. Haha.
5. Consider This by Karen Glass
Recommended for: Those who plan to mix the Classical method and Charlotte Mason’s principles. (This is me!)
What I loved about it: Because mixing Classical and CM is exactly what I plan to do for my kids, this was definitely an important read for me. I love how it explains well which parts of the Classical Method fit well with Charlotte Mason’s methods and which don’t. It gave me a better understanding of the two.
6. Minimalist Homeschooling by Zara Fagen
Recommended for: Those who want to keep it simple and focused. Also for parents practicing minimalism and would like to incorporate the practice in homeschooling.
What I loved about it: A breath of fresh air when you’re feeling overwhelmed about homeschooling. Sometimes, things can get too complicated too fast for us (too much options for curriculum, so many activities to join, etc.) Which is why it’s such a good reminder to remember the very CORE of your WHY: why you are homeschooling in the first place.
I also love the emphasis on focusing and guarding what is important and at the same time, being able to identify which ones are not. It’s a very simple, practical and quick read.
7. Unhurried Homeschooler by Durenda Wilson and Teaching from Rest by Sarah MacKenzie
Recommended for: Those who feel overwhelmed at the idea of homeschooling. Also for those who feel like they never have enough hours in a day.
What I loved about it: Lumping both books together in one item on this list because to me, they both had the same feel. Both are feel good books that would help you if you’re feeling too burnt out or if the idea of homeschooling seems very stressful for you (Hint: it shouldn’t!)
NOTE: These books are great if you’re looking for a comforting book about homeschooling. If you’re looking to learn about the basics, more info about homeschooling or generally looking for tips and ideas on how to teach, I would recommend that you’re better off reading the other books on the list above!
—
RELATED POSTS:
- How We Homeschool: 5 Years Old (Level K)
- How We Homeschool: 4 Years Old (Pre-K Level)
- Daily Schedule at Home: Life as a Work-at-Home, Homeschooling Mom
- Homeschool Room: 2020 Update