Why are the time-tested principles of respected 19th-century British educator Charlotte Mason so popular with homeschoolers? Because they work! Andreola shares her experiences in homeschooling the "Charlotte Mason way." Discover how to teach children to think independently, retain what they learn, and communicate clearly by narrating what they read in "living books." 384 pages, softcover from Charlotte Mason Research.

Celebrating 10 years!

Experience afresh the transforming joys of happy and obedient children and a delightfully unstuffy homeschool!

I married Karen two years after she left high school. She was a shy girl, bewildered by her education. A turning point came when, as a young mother, she began to live out Charlotte Mason’s proven learning methods with our children. It transformed all of our lives! To help other mothers realize their dreams for their children, she wrote A Charlotte Mason Companion.

That was 10 years ago. Since then, Karen’s book has become a trusted friend to nearly 100,000 moms. Many read it annually for continued support and inspiration. Over the years, Karen has made friends she hasn’t had the pleasure of meeting. I say “friends” because Karen writes so personally. Moms often say she has “a beautiful writing style that is imbued with ‘you can do this.’” Reading Companion is “like reading a pile of letters from an old friend.” She calms the spirit with “the power to encourage the most downhearted homeschooling parent.” By sharing the intimate details of her life as mother, teacher, and friend to her children, she paints a picture of a homeschool that is run both warmly and efficiently.

The instructive chapters of Companion show how to get good use out of living books and narration, and how to teach reading, composition, grammar, vocabulary, spelling, history, poetry, nature study, art, music appreciation, and Shakespeare. A compelling “why” supports each “how to.” Other chapters foster enthusiasm for mothering and child training, such as “The Atmosphere of Home,” “The Happiness of Habit,” and suggestions for picnics, handicrafts, and old-fashioned children’s games.

A few skeptics who have not tried it themselves have said that what is portrayed in her lovely book of Victorian ideals and illustrations is unattainable and unrealistic. But those who believe in the attraction of the Christian ideal have been inspired to keep walking the narrow road despite the difficulties and setbacks of our imperfect lives. Isn’t that what ideals are for?

Many who borrow Karen’s book soon come to own it, so that they can refer to it again and again and underline the parts that speak most profoundly to them. Here we invite a whole new generation of homeschool moms to glean from A Charlotte Mason Companion! 380 pages, softcover.

—Dean

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