How Do I Choose Good Books for Our Homeschool?

Finding books for homeschooling can be quite a task. With many options available, it can feel like searching for treasures. This guide is here to help you navigate the selection and discover books that are enjoyable to read and enriching for your learning journey.

Why Books Matter

Books are more than ink on paper. They have the power to transport you to adventures, provoke thoughts, stir emotions, and educate you about diverse people and places you may have never encountered before. Like keys, they unlock worlds, ignite your imagination, and provide fresh perspectives.

Defining Your Learning Goals

Consider your objectives. If history captivates you, delve into Number the Stars by Lois Lowry—a captivating tale that offers a child's perspective on World War II. Alternatively, if enhancing your comprehension of narratives is your aim, explore Holes by Louis Sachar—a gripping story filled with plot twists.

Discovering Your Preferences

When it comes to choosing books, your interests play a role. If you're fond of mysteries, we recommend The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin. If space captivates your imagination, you might find The Martian by Andy Weir a good read. Books that revolve around your subjects are more likely to keep you engrossed.

It's always good to mix things up when it comes to reading. Like trying various types of food keeps things interesting, exploring various genres of literature can do the same for your reading experience. If you're in the mood for a captivating fantasy story, The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis could be a choice. How about reading A History of Everything by Bill Bryson for those seeking knowledge and facts? If you're looking for a real-life autobiography, we highly recommend I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai.

Age-Appropriate Books

Choose books that are just right for your child's age. Middle schoolers may find The Giver by Lois Lowry particularly engaging, while high schoolers might enjoy the thought-provoking tale of To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Don't hesitate to seek recommendations from teachers, parents, or librarians who can suggest books that align with your age and interests.

Remember that quality matters more than quantity when it comes to reading material. A few extraordinary books can leave a lasting impact compared to others. Consider exploring classics such as Mark Twain's timeless tale The Adventures of Tom Sawyer or try award-winning works, like Neil Gaiman's captivating masterpiece The Graveyard Book.

Exploring Literature from Around the Globe

Discovering stories from cultures can be incredibly enlightening. Consider The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho to experience Brazilian storytelling at its finest, or delight in Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, The Good Earth by Pearl Buck or Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton. 

Embrace the Library and Bookstores

Libraries and bookstores are treasure troves of possibilities. Librarians are adept at recommending literary gems, and wandering the aisles of a bookstore might introduce you to books you never realized would capture your heart.

Enjoy the Excitement of Selecting Great Books

Curating a collection of books for your homeschool journey can be an exhilarating adventure. By considering your aspirations and personal preferences and embracing a variety of genres, you'll create a reading list. Each book you select becomes a gateway to embark on an expedition.

Remember that every book holds the promise of an odyssey. Trust your instincts when making choices, relish hand picking your books, and immerse yourself in the captivating adventures they offer!