There are so many homeschool books and products out there that it is impossible for me to evaluate them all. Therefore, I only review relatively new and/or unique products that work well with The Checklist and multi-level teaching. Occasionally, I have other experienced, currently-homeschooling moms who help me with book reviews. I hope these reviews will help you choose homeschool books and learning products that will meet your family's needs. I do not put bad reviews on my website. If it's not here, it's either because I don't like it or I haven't seen it yet.

Note to Publishers: I do not accept advertisements. However, if you would like your product to be considered for this Web site, please email me at: cindy@oklahomahomeschool.com. Cindy Downes

Listed in Alphabetical Order:

• All American History, Uniting America's Story, Piece by Piece by Celeste W. Rakes.

When I first received Volume 1 of this curriculum, I thought it was going to be just another history textbook. However, I was pleasantly surprised! This one is unique and worth considering for your children.

The reader is excellent and the information is well presented. I think students will enjoy the text. Each unit includes easy-to-read text, illustrations of famous people and events, maps, and a section on the impact of the unit's events on our nation. The illustrations, however, are black and white which makes it somewhat less interesting than a similar book in color. Maybe a future edition will add color illustrations

What I like the most is the activity book! Each unit includes activity worksheets to accompany the text. The fun part is that Celeste has included small images of famous people and flags to cut out and paste on the worksheets. Visual learners and your younger children will like this part and it will help them to remember what they learned. The worksheets also include a fill in the blank and multiple choice quiz to check older student's memory, as well as map work and additional ideas and resources for further study.

This curriculum comes in three parts: The Student Reader, a Student Activity Book, and the Teacher Guide with Answer Key. Normally, I don't like having to purchase a separate teacher book, but in this case, it's not that expensive ($16.95) and it is well worth purchasing. It includes a lot of background information as well as additional activities that will make multi-level teaching a lot easier. For instance, in the lesson on the Revolutionary War, students will make invisible ink secret messages, create a newspaper, make candles, go on a nature hike to identify trees and animals, learn how to fly and store a flag, and much more.

I particularly recommend this to parents who have visual learners and who have to teach multiple grade levels at one time. The author recommends it to be used for grades 5-8, but I would not be afraid to use parts of it with younger children.

• Ancient China, To the Great Wall and Beyond by Judy Wilcox.

I am extremely impressed with Ancient China, To the Great Wall and Beyond by Judy Wilcox. Judy has created a resource that is fun, easy-to-use, and chock full of information about China (from ancient time to modern day). It was written to be used with K-6 grade, but I believe it would make a terrific supplement for 7-12 also. There is enough "meat" in this unit that your teens will learn as much or more about China from this than from most junior or senior level textbooks. The best part is that they will have fun doing it!

The unit is scheduled for a twelve week period and is divided into daily lesson plans. Each lesson includes a reading in the book and timeline information. Projects are included with each lesson that involve research, reading, composition, map work, art, music, science, hands-on activities (crafts, models, recipes, etc), and field trip ideas.

The lessons begin with the geography of China, then progress through history by dynasty, and conclude with information about modern China. At the end of the book, there is a test for the unit as well as a glossary, a list of books for further study, timeline figures, and maps.

From the moment I picked up this book, I was "hooked." I read the book cover to cover, wishing the whole time that I was still homeschooling or that I had had a chance to be exposed to this kind of learning when I was a young student. The information is presented logically and simple enough that anyone can understand it. I particularly liked how Judy integrates Christianity into the curriculum and includes projects that has students compare the religions of China to that of Christianity.

I can't recommend this unit enough. Ancient China has a fascinating history and plays an important role in our world today. You will be doing your children an injustice not to expose them to the history of China. Now, there is a resource that will help you do just that! And when you are done, you can check this off your copy of The Checklist.

PS: I have added an update to The Checklist to incorporate this unit. Those of you who already own The Checklist can add it to your notebook. Those of you who don't can view a sample here: Ancient China (updated September 2007): http://oklahomahomeschool.com/Cklist_Rev.html

• Ancient History Portfolio & Timeline by Barbara Shukin, Review.

During the years I ran a support group, we would have portfolio night, where everyone brought their portfolio to show off. Of course, the winners were always the ones who were scrapbookers! Their portfolios were beautiful, colorful, and exciting while ours were dull, practical, and boring. Oh, if I had only know about Barbara's book, I could have given them a run for the money! It may not be scrapbooking, but when finished, it IS a work of art!

Barbara has put together a mini portfolio for history. She has designed each page so it's neat and orderly and then gives you all the ideas you need to complete the boxes. The assignments include reports, narration, vocabulary, copy work, and timelines. You can look at her website for color pictures of sample portfolios (http://www.homeschooljourney.com/index.html).

Barbara created these resources to be used "by an individual, child or adult, and will become a unique record of the student's "journey through history", a beautiful history book of the student's own making, something to refer to later as the student's interests grow and expand, and above all, something to treasure."

I recommend this resource for those of you who have children who are Read/Write and Visual Learner (especially if they love to make booklets) and for moms who would like help in creating a portfolio of your child's history work.

• Anthony and the Magic Picture Frame by Michael S. Class.

This is an innovative book that will stimulate your child's interest in history. Although written for ages 12 and up, this can easily be used as a family read-aloud for younger children. Your child will be transported back to the time of important historicbal events using real photographs of "Anthony" superimposed on historical photos of the people he visits including Charles Lindbergh, Lou Gehrig, Thomas Edison, and Dr. Jonas Salk. While on these "visits," Anthony learns about the Apollo Moon Mission, The Great Depression, Immigration, Polio Vaccine, WWII, the Holocaust, and more. Real quotes from real people make the story come so alive that you almost believe Anthony is there!

Included in the book is a list of books, movies, museums, and music related to each topic as well as footnotes that are lessons in themselves. I also like that the author chose to include references to God and Bible scripture rather than make this "politically" correct.

The author, Michael Class, wrote the book to encourage "young people to become productive, honest, thoughtful, moral citizens—and to contribute in a positive way to American society and the world." He has done an excellent job of fulfilling this mission. I highly recommend this book for everyone, even adults.

• Balancing the Sword.

  I made a great discovery at the OCHEC Homeschool Convention - a Bible study resource called Balancing the Sword. So many times, parents ask me what they should use for Bible study and I usually tell them - the Bible! I know that seems obvious but parents are so used to doing curriculum for everything that they think they need a curriculum for studying the Bible. Unfortunately, Bible curriculums are usually structured around someone else's theology or philosophy so it's hard to hear what God is saying to you personally.

  Balancing the Sword is different. You simply read a chapter in the Bible and then refer to Balancing the Sword for questions about that chapter. You must also read the cross references listed to find all the answers. The cross references follow the theme of one verse throughout the Bible. By time you get done reading everything, you've learn so much more about the topic and all through reading the Word, not someone's commentary. it's amazing what you learn!

  For instance, in the first chapter of Genesis, I learned:

  1. God created light here on earth. There is no sun in heaven - He is the light.
  2. Night time is the beginning of the Jewish day. We once walked in darkness but now we are in the Light.
  3. God gave stars as signs for seasons, days, and years. These will remain as long as the earth remains, but will disappear at the Day of the Lord. A star was used to show the location of Jesus at His birth. Man uses stars to interpret the weather, but most are unable to interpret the signs of the times.
  4. God wants us to be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it using its vast resources in the service of God and man. God gives dominion to whom He chooses for His purposes.

  There are two volumes. Each of the two volumes cover all 66 books of the Bible but with different questions so you can go through the Bible two times using the two books. You can do it from Genesis to Revelation or start anywhere in the Bible that you want to. Although it is based on the KJV, it does not seem to require that you use that version. I use the Amplified and The Message and had no problem.

  You are given permission to make copies of the questions for your own family so you can give each child a blank sheet of questions to answer. (I would probably do this orally as a family - maybe once in a while writing the answers to keep in my portfolio as records.)

  Check it out. This might be just what you are looking for! See some sample pages here: http://www.balancingthesword.com/PDF_Files/Samples_of_Both_Volumes.pdf

• Beyond Numbers by Katherine A. Loop.

  If you want to know what homeschool graduates are doing, just look at the number of books being published by them! Beyond Numbers, written by homeschool graduate Katherine Loop, is another one that I recommend.
  
  Several years ago, I read a book called, Mathematics: Is God Silent? by James Nickel. It was so inspiring and informative that I began recommending it to everyone I could. However, it's not an easy read and most people just couldn't take the time to digest it. When I learned that Katherine had written a book which included a simplified version of a portion of Nickel's book, I was extremely anxious to read it.
  
  She didn't disappoint me! Katherine's excellent book is easy to read. It will not only help you understand God's purpose for math and how math testifies of God, but it will also give you some practical suggestions for implementing what you learn into your homeschool program. In addition, she rates current math curriculums as to how well they present math in the context of God's Word and includes a sample idea notebook for using math in your daily lives. Congratulations, Katherine, on a job well done! For more information or to order, check her website.

• Biology 101 by Wes Olson.

  Your visual and auditory learners are going to LOVE this. As a matter of fact, Biology 101: Biology According to the Days of Creation, developed by Wes Olson, is going to be enjoyed by the whole family!

  The topics covered in this 4 disc set include Defining Life and Life Classification, Plants, Aquatic Creatures, Avian Creatures, Land Animals, Mankind and Genetics. It also includes a printable 114-page guidebook and a 12-page "Course Accreditation Program."

  First, what I liked: I loved the beautiful videos; the animated graphs, charts and illustrations; the background music was pleasant and added to the learning experience. The host (also Wes Olson) was an excellent speaker and kept my attention with clearly defined definitions, anecdotes, and interesting facts. During the plant segment, he takes the viewer to a variety of places to study plants: the bakery to learn about grains, a restaurant to learn how algae is used to make ice cream and salad dressing, and the forest to watch a forester drill a tree ring sample to find out the age of a tree. He also offers memory tips like learning that stamen ends with "men" so it's the male part of the plant, and he shows how plants are used in scripture to illustrate spiritual truths. The animations are excellent and easy to learn from so everyone in the family will benefit from watching the videos.

  What I didn't like: There is no real lab work included to speak of, only a few simple projects. The "accreditation program" is not adequate for students going to college or entering any science-related field. I recommend supplementing the curriculum with additional research, composition, and lab work. The guidebook did not include much more than what is included on the videos, so it's not really that helpful. Perhaps this is a feature they will improve in the future.

  However, I liked the videos themselves so much, I highly recommend them as the foundation for a biology course or a unit study for all ages. You could teach topic by topic as in a unit study and use the videos as the "meat." Simply add additional reading, research, composition, and lab to suit, depending on grade level, interests and abilities. Much of the extras could be found on the Internet for free. The cost of Biology 101 is only $69.95/set, a full year's course that can be used by your entire family. You can't beat that!

• Bootmaker to the Nation by Dr. John Slade.

A few days ago, I received a 721 page book called, "Bootmaker to the Nation" by Dr. John Slade, to review. My first thought when looking at the enormous tome, was, "Fat chance I'll get around to reading this." I dropped it on my coffee table and forgot about it. Later that evening, I picked it up and started ruffling through, wondering who I could give it to to review for me! However, having nothing pressing to do at the moment, I began reading the first chapter. I was immediately hooked!

The book is historical fiction set at the time of the American Revolution, 1763 to 1783. The story is told from the point of view of a London boy named Benjamin and an American girl named Genevieve. Dr. Slade begins the story in London where Benjamin, an 18-year old cobbler's son, is kidnapped and taken aboard the Lively, a British frigate, to be pressed into His Majesty's navy. During the trip over he is forced to become a topman where he must climb to the top of the ship's mast to furl and set the sail. This whole section kept me biting my nails! After he lands, he is then forced to learn to become a soldier for the Redcoats. His only goal, however, is to escape and get back to London.

The story then takes us from Benjamin's story to Genevieve's story. I don't want to say much more about the plot because that's what kept me hooked! And while I was hooked, I learned about each of the battles of the Revolution, the weapons that were used, the people involved, and why we fought the war. This was much better than a history textbook!

Dr. Slade's goal in writing the book is to teach us to "love American history, understand our nation's first war, meet our Founding Fathers as people, not as wooden heroes, and look to the future with an educated eye." He definitely fulfills this goal. I highly recommend this for 9th graders and up. It's available at local bookstores.

• Cozy Grammar Review.

Let me proceed this review with some facts: My maiden name is Edwards. My favorite movie is Pride and Prejudice. I've read every Agatha Christie mystery written and I love Earl Grey tea. So, how could I not love Cozy Grammar! Cozy Grammar, produced by Splashes from the River, is a video teaching resource. Splashes from the River produces several video courses that teach basic grammar, intermediate grammar, punctuation, and essay writing. This review relates to the Basic Cozy Grammar Course.

The main character in this video is the author, Marie Rackham, an active, full-of-life, senior citizen and retired school teacher who lives in British Columbia. In her preface, the author says, "I wanted to get out of the classroom - to present grammar in an everyday setting. The coziness of a home, the familiarity of a garden, the fascination of a beach, and the ever changing moods of the Pacific Coast weather combined to make a stimulating, but non-threatening, setting for teaching a potentially dry and boring subject."

I can assure you that she did exactly that. She used the beautiful setting of her home in the Pacific-Northwest to teach basic grammar skills. For instance, in the first lesson, she teaches about the kinds of sentences while welcoming you into her home and drinking tea. In the second lesson, she teaches about subjects and predicates with a demonstration of chopping firewood, building a fire, and then relaxing in front of it. She illustrates nouns by having a dinner party with friends. She uses name plates to teach personal nouns; she sets the table to show common nouns; she serves the meal while teaching collective nouns, indefinite nouns, pronouns, etc.

I thoroughly enjoyed her slightly English accent, her somewhat "stuffy" English ways, the beautiful scenery, and the background music consisting of piano compositions from composers such as Bach, Chopin, and Beethoven. The experience was pleasant and relaxing, as well as informative. After viewing each segment, there is a worksheet to complete that reinforces what has been taught, as well as tests to be given as needed.

There are a few segments that may bother some Christian homeschooling families. One is the segment where Marie is having a dinner party and she pours red and white wine in her guests glasses. The other is when she uses a buddha and yin/yang symbol to talk about adjectives. These incidents are brief and I think so minor to the program that they shouldn't present a problem for most families, no more than seeing them in a TV ad or at the mall. I would use these segments as talking points, if desired.

I highly recommend this series for children who are visual and auditory learners. I would begin the Basic Grammar course with children who are reading fluently and ready for formal grammar instruction. The course is simple to use and is an enjoyable way to learn grammar, especially for those who dislike the traditional textboook approach.

Unfortunately, I think most teenagers are will think this series is a little too "cheesy" for them. I don't believe you'll find many of them volunteering to watch it. However, I have an idea! Why not assign your older teen to watch it with your younger child to "help him" learn grammar. That way your teen can save "face" and it would give you time to work one-on-one with another child or do housework while this is going on!

My suggestion for this company is that they should create additional sets of Cozy Grammar with new actors and call them, "Wild West Grammar" for the western folks and "Shopping Mall Grammar" for the metropolitan type. That way everyone can enjoy watching them as much as I did! For pricing and more information, log onto to their website at: www.splashesfromtheriver.com.

• Drive Thru History America with Dave Stotts.

  This resource is produced by David Barton and Nita Thomason. It describes itself as "cutting edge, entertaining, fast-paced curriculum that teaches the history of our nation from a Christian worldview" and it generally lives up to its claim.

  Included in the curriculum is a DVD and a student workbook that focus on eight historical figures: Benjamin Franklin, Dr. Benjamin Rush, George Washington, Benjamin Banneker, Haym Salomon, Abigail Adams, Noah Webster, and John Quincy Adams.

  Each segment involves watching a color, video presentation and then completing a section in the workbook. The video presentation is hosted by Dave Stotts who drives around in a Hummer as he teaches the subject. The presentation transitions back and forth from the host (sometimes dressed in historical costume and filmed on location) to a narration over drawings, artwork, or animated graphics. The host is witty and interjects a bit of humor here and there, such as wearing hideous-looking false teeth, to make it more interesting for kids.

  The workbook includes information about each person's life, as well as student activities which range from research and writing assignments to mock simulations and group discussions. Other activities include puzzles and poetry memorization as well as questions to be answered after each chapter.

  I recommend this resource for 6th grade and up, although younger children may enjoy the video. In addition to being a stand-alone curriculum in character education, it will also make a great resource for an American history unit study or to enrich a traditional American History curriculum. It is not a stand-alone American History curriculum.

  This curriculum will appeal to Visual, Auditory, and Read/Write learner. There is not much here for the Kinesthetic learner but it could certainly be used along with hands-on projects that you add yourself.

  The best part of the curriculum is that it is Bible-based and encourages good character development. The focus is on each person's achievements and how each one served because of his/her faith in God. The activities encourage the students to analyze and imitate these good character traits. There are not too many resources out there that do this well, but here is one that I recommend.

  The homeschool kit, which includes the DVD and the workbook, is $49.99. You are given permission to copy the workbook for classroom use so there is no need to buy a separate workbook for each of your children. Contact: www.dthamerica.com for more information or to order.

• Exploring the World of Mathematics by John Hudson Tiner.

Since I was taking College Algebra last semester, I picked up the book, Exploring the World of Mathematics, to read in order to supplement my understanding of math. Great choice! Not only did I learn more about mathematic principles but I learned more about the history of math, how math applies to everyday life, and even how math is used in scriptures!

I suggest that sometime during your child's 5th-8th grade years, you go through each chapter with him - maybe as a summer course or one day a week on Friday. Most kids will like the book, too, as it teaches them how to solve logic problems that can fool their friends! Like this one: Have your friend secretly choose a number from one to ten. Tell him to add six to the number, double the results, and divide his answer by four. Next subtract half of the original number. When he is done, you can tell him what his number is 100% of the time. You'll have to read the book to find out how!

• Exploring World History and Exploring American History by Ray Notgrass.

  Exploring World History comes in two volumes: Part I - Creation through the Middle Ages and Part II - The Renaissance to the Present. These are huge, spiral-bound volumes (900+ pages) that are created for use in high school but could be adapted for use with all your children in a multi-level setting.

  The companion volume In Their Words, Original Documents, Poetry, Stories, and Hymns from World History is one of my favorite parts of the Exploring World History curriculum. In this volume, Mr. Notgrass has compiled a selection of "original resources from world history that range from the Code of Hammurabi around 1750 BC to speeches by Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. It includes significant documents, speeches, excerpts from books, poems, short stories, fables, and fairy tales. A special feature are many hymns from 200 AD to the twentieth century."

  For example, during the lesson on the French Revolution, you'll be reading A Tale of Two Cities as a family read-aloud which you started at the beginning of the unit. During this particular lesson, you will also read 'The French Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen' from In Their Words. I like the way Mr. Notgrass incorporates historical documents with historical fiction, the best of both worlds - your kids will enjoy learning!

  Exploring American History comes in two huge volumes also (700+ pages): Volume I - Columbus to Reconstruction and Volume II - Late 1800s to the Present. Again these could be used for several years in a multi-level environment. In addition to the American History textbooks, you will also read from A Documentary History of the United States which includes documents, speeches, and letters from American history, The World's Greatest Speeches, and 100 Great American Poems.

  Another feature I like in both curriculums is the writing assignments. For example, during the lesson on The New Deal in Exploring American History, you will read the lesson in the textbook, read Franklin Roosevelt's Inaugural Address in The World's Greatest Speeches, begin To Kill A Mockingbird, and work on a writing assignment from a list of choices (example: Do some research and write a two-page biography of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt.) You would have to adapt this assignment for younger children - perhaps using the "Famous Person" form on my website. The World History curriculum also includes a Nation Project assignment where your student chooses one country on which to research and write throughout the course of the study along with or instead of the other assignments. Grammar points are also included with each lesson, but this will not take the place of a grammar curriculum. It is a good review, however.

  The text of both curriculums is written in a prose style that is easy to read, similar to the Apologia Science style. The World History text is easier on the eyes as it is larger print; however, the print on the American History is adequate for you younger folks! Black and white photos and maps are interspersed throughout the text to add interest. The only thing that could make this better (however more expensive) would be color.

  For those of you who use tests and quizzes, he offers an optional Quiz & Exam Book for each curriculum. I highly recommend purchasing these also, even to those of you who do not use tests, as they are wonderful resources for discussion questions after each lesson.

  The literature list in both curriculums is excellent; however, some of it is too difficult for primary-aged children. If you are teaching all grade levels, you may want to substitute something else for family reading when the assigned book is not appropriate for your younger children. Then have your older children read the assigned reading on their own.

  Scripture lessons are also included, along with questions related to the reading. This curriculum is written from a Christian point of view which makes it especially good for families who want to incorporate Bible with their history studies.

  For those of you with high school students, this could be used as a self-directed study for students who are motivated to work on their own.

  Each of these curriculums would be excellent resources to use along with my Multi-level Planning Guide for History.

• Hands of a Child.

Are you looking for a quick, easy & fun way to teach history and science? Then check out the kits at Hands of a Child. Each kit becomes a colorful, lap book made of file folders and construction paper that illustrates what your child has learned during the unit. Each kit comes with a lesson plan and printable masters. You supply paper, file folders, brads, and glue. All you have to do is copy the masters, cut out, and then have your children complete the lessons. You can even buy a kit already printed - all you do is cut out and teach!

The lessons are written from a Christian perspective and include biographies, literature, state history, science, and history. Topics range from the Human Body to Wireless Communication to the French Revolution. Each lesson is multi-level so you can use it, as is, for several grade levels or you can adapt it for PreK-12. All of the newer kits come with a study guide which gives you all the factual information you need to complete the lesson as well. For the older kits, you will need to research the factual information yourself using a textbook, encyclopedia, or the internet.

For example, In the North Carolina State history unit, your child learns state facts, geography, climate, government, economy, people, religion, important dates, major cities, colleges and universities, wildlife, and vocabulary of the state through reading of the text included. They reinforce this learning by completing "projects" that go with each lesson and are added to the folder as they progress. When completed, the folder is easy to store and makes great "memory book" of your child's school years.

These kits are perfect to use along with The Checklist and highly recommended for the Read/Write and Visual Learner or any child who likes to make booklets, color, cut out and paste. To see samples, prices, and how to order, please check the website.

History Through the Ages by Amy Pak

I love Timeline products and this one did NOT disappoint! On a scale of 1 to 5, this is definitely a 5! Amy has created a resource that can be used throughout your homeschooling career that will help you and your children make sense of history. And if you've never used a timeline, this one makes it very easy to get started. Everything you need is available from one resource.

First, the History Through the Ages Record of Time notebook. This is georgeous! The timeline pages are printed on heavy stock so they won't tear out easily and your timeline pieces won't see through the back of the page. These pages are then inserted into a 3-ring notebook (about 13' wide by 9" high) with a beautiful, full color, hard-bound cover, making this easy to store and something that will last a long, long time. Also, included are 17 maps of the ancient and modern worlds..

Second, the Timeline Pieces. The timeline pieces are purchased in sets (Creation to Christ, Resurrection to Revolution, Napoleon to Now, and America's History). They are printed on white paper, complete with a picture and a short description of the piece. Children who like to color, can color the pieces which will make your book even more colorful. The CD gives you the option to print the pieces with or without the descriptive text and in both wall and notebook size!

Last, the Suggested Placement Guide. One of the most helpful features of this set is the placement guide. This shows you where to place your timeline pieces so that all of them will fit in your notebook. Without this, you may have trouble as you create your book. If you place the timeline pieces in the wrong place, then later when you go to add others, you may find there is no space to squeeze in a piece that needs to go between two previously placed pieces.

Now you may be thinking, "that's is a lot of money to spend on a timeline" but let me assure you that it will be money well spent. How many textbooks do you buy that last for 12+ years? Or that will be used by the whole family? And that will be a treasured memory book of your homeschool days? This timeline is all that, as well as a tool that will help you teach your children the history of the world and demonstrate how these historical events work together to tell God's Story.

• Learning with the Movies.

If you do unit studies or just like to enrich your homeschool program with videos, you have to have this book by Beth Holland! This is another resource I discovered at the OCHEC convention and immediately purchased.

Learning with the Movies includes a listing of cinema movies and made-for-TV movies. The beauty of this guide is that all the movies are organized chronologically beginning with Bible Times and Ancient Egypt through 1900's. If you are doing a study on Rome, simple look through the section on Ancient Rome! For instance, in the Rome section, she has included Ben-Hur, Demetrius and the Gladiator, fall of the Roman Empire, Julius Caesar, Jupiter's Darling, Quo Vadis?, The Robe, Sign of the Pagan (about Attila the Hun), and Spartacus. There is also some blank space for you to list additional movies as you find them.

Finally, she has also included movies related to the Music/Arts (example: The Agony and the Ecstasy which is about Michelangelo), Biographies (example: Abe Lincoln in Illinois), Sports (example: Brian's Song), Science/Nature (example: Apollo 13), Horses (example: Miracle of the White Stallions), Medicine (example: The Girl in White), Literature (example: A Christmas Carol), Holidays (example: Miracle on 34th Street), and Family Films (just plain fun).

Each movie listing includes its production date, Beth's star rating, and the parental guidance rating (PG, G, etc). An alphabetical listing is in the back of the book. Highly recommended for the visual and auditory learner.

• Math-U-See, Gamma

Chaney has been using the Gamma book because I wasn't happy with her inability to remember her  multiplication table.  We really struggled but she never learned it well or understood it.  We started using the Math U See book so we could start over and try a different method.  I love the way the students are taught with the DVD lessons and that they use the manipulative blocks so that they can see as well as hear why they do things a certain way. The lessons are short and only cover the subject they work on in the workbook, so the kids don't get bored sitting through them or confused by being rushed into another subject too soon.   The teacher really knows how to explain the theory in an easy to understand language. I've already seen some understanding taking place where I think she struggled.  I am completely sold on this math and will be using it from now on. Reviewed by Joetta Wilson and family. Highly recommended for the kinethetic, auditory, and visual learner.

• Math-U-See, Pre-Algebra

As for Kalie, this has been a lifesaver.  She is using the Pre-Algebra book.  She actually enjoys her math lessons now.  I don't hear her mumble about having to do it and how hard it is.  In fact, after she watched one of the lessons, she got up and told me, "Why couldn't someone explain it to me like that before?  I understand it now."  That was what completely sold me on this math product.  Shandra is upset that we didn't have this for her because she really struggled through Algebra and never did completely understand it.  I think I will be getting the Algebra for her to do again, maybe this time she will learn something useful and understand things. Reviewed by Joetta Wilson and family. Highly recommended for the kinethetic, auditory, and visual learner.

• On the Banks of Durbin Creek: It's Bedtime for Bunnies by Loretta Hayward.

  I don't usually review many fiction books, but this one caught my eye and I just have to share it with you. Loretta, a homeschool mom, raises bunnies - as a matter of fact, she currently has 120 bunnies! And these bunnies are the subject of her book, "It's Bedtime for Bunnies." Loretta takes photos of her "dressed up" bunnies sleeping in beds, playing in gardens, and interacting with each other just as the bunnies in the Peter Rabbit books do. Only this time it's photos instead of drawings. And the photos are just plain adorable! The text is in poetry style, easy to read, and tells how mother bunny watches over her baby bunnies just as the Lord watches over us. A delightful book that everyone who loves animals will enjoy. Recommended for all ages. Check out her Web site for her bunny-photo greeting cards, too!

• Principles of Physics by Kinetic Books.

I never like physics and I still don't; but, if I had to teach physics, this is the resource I would use. Principles of Physics is a CD that you install on your computer. Each lesson is presented on an html page that you read on the computer; but, the neat thing for auditory-visual learners like me is that you click on a simulation and it explains the concept using sound and animations. This is what makes this program worth it for me. I have trouble understanding physics - probably always will - but with the added dimension of sound and animations, I know I could master the subject if I worked at it. For those of you with children who are science-oriented, I think this would inspire them to learn even more because it does use all the senses.

The program was easy to install and set up. And the cost? Amazingly cheap - only $39.95. You can't beat that for a physics course. I give this a 5 star rating! Kinetic Books offers three versions of their physics courses: Conceptual Physics is for students taking a first course in high school physics. It is algebra-based. Principles of Physics is designed for high school students who want to take the physics AP/B exam.Physics for Scientists and Engineers is a calculus-based, college-level physics course. For more info, visit their website.

• The Elements.

Most homeschool moms that I know are not particularly fond of teaching science. I guess it's a girl thing! But today, there are so many great resources that make teaching science easier that it should become more and more "girl" friendly! Here's one of those resources: The Elements published by EDGEucation Publishing. This resource is a fun way to teach your children about the 109 elements. Your children will be introduced to each element through a funny character to color and a short bio. The workbook includes test sheets and stickers to reinforce what is learned. A great introduction to the elements for all ages. Also available is The Elements Flash Cards. Colorful flash cards help children to memorize the names and facts about each of the 109 elements. For more info, check out their website.

• Time Lines, Etc.

Time Lines, Etc. produces time line figures, historical information, games and learning activities for U.S.History, Ancient Civilizations, Middle Ages, Inventions, Old Testament, New Testament, and Learning the Bill of Rights. If you have children who enjoy coloring, this is the set I would recommend. The figures are line drawings on heavy card stock so they are easy to color with any medium (crayons, colored pencils, watercolors, etc). There are some duplicate pieces that are already colored, although not the complete set. (I would have liked to have seen this complete.) For kinesthetic kids, there are a variety of ideas included to make learning fun such as: make the figures into puppets, arrange them in chronological order, use a figure as "show and tell," and much more. You could use the timeline figures as your entire history course. A short historical summary about each piece is included to help you teach about each figure. You can then use library books and the internet to add to this information. Although not as professionally done as the competition, I did enjoy the line art that makes them easier to color. They are a bit cheaper also. For more information, visit their website.

Times Tales Deluxe:

At first glance, I thought this product was going to be confusing; but, after using it awhile, I found it was not. The idea is very good because it helps younger children learn multiplication of higher numbers, something they tend to have trouble learning. When I first examined the examples used, I thought they were a little childish, but considering the age group this is written for, the use of simple, familiar items makes it easier for younger children to relate. I recommend this product on an as-needed basis for additional practice and reinforcement in lower elementary math education. Reviewed by Joetta Wilson and family.

• Science Adventures by Treasure Box Press.

I am very impressed with this kit and would highly recommend it to anyone, especially those who enjoy unit studies. It is a unit study without all the work it normally takes to find everything. Each kit comes with everything needed to do the whole unit with the exception of tape, scissors, glue, etc; in other words everything home school parents should already have on hand. This kit can be used either by itself or alongside your regular curriculum as an added tool. Chaney has really enjoyed doing this unit on stars and constellations because she is a hand-on child and learns more by using all her senses. I usually have to drag her to do her science, but since Science Adventures is so hands-on, she actually enjoys science now. Reviewed by Joetta Wilson and family.

• Signs & Seasons: Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy by Jay Ryan.

My first impression when I picked up this curriculum was - how do I read this? The author uses fonts and text that emulate the style of Colonial Almanacks. Those of you who use a Classical method of homeschooling will feel quite at home; however, for those of us who do not, it presents a bit of a challenge. Once you get past the preface, however, a majority of the text is in a modern style.

The purpose of the book is best explained by the author, Jay Ryan: "Unlike other astronomy books, Signs & Seasons is based on the Biblical purpose for which the Sun, Moon, and stars were created - for signs and seasons, days and years - as it is written in Genesis 1:14. Signs & Seasons includes extensive Bible quotes from classic authors - philosophers, poets, and historians, Christian and secular alike. . . The purpose of Signs & Seasons is to help the reader become an observer of the celestial bodies and to understand the clockwork of the heavens."

The book covers:

- why the stars rise and set
- the motion of the planets and the moon among the stars,
- the reasons for the seasons
- the names of the principal constellations
- why they seem to change with the seasons.

There are seven chapters with black and white drawings and an appendix. The appendix includes suggestions for further reading, astronomical tables, brief biographies of quoted authors "with an emphasis on their relevance to calssical astronomy," a glossary, and field activities. The section on field activities offers ideas on creating a field journal, as well as many hands-on activities that will make the unit much more meaningful. For instance, in Chapter 1, you will create a backyard compass which will be used throughout the year for observing the skies. There are also instructions on how to sketch the earth's rotation, and the sun's daily motion. A globe activity helps students understand the geocentric and heliocentric theory. Directions for creating a volvelle to illustrate the daily motion of the sun are included as well as a journal entry suggestion for a classical astronomy timeline. Also included is a pair of Eclipse Shades for safe solar viewing.

Personally, I found the quotes mixed in with the text confusing and the information more in depth than I would have taught based on my own children's learning styles and interests. However, I would heartily recommend this book to those who enjoy the Classical method of homeschooling as well as those who desire to give their children an in-depth look at astronomy from a Biblical perspective.

I don't think there is another curriculum out there like this, so it would be well worth your time to check it out and see if it will meet a need in your homeschool.

• Two Plus Two is Not Five

"Two Plus Two Is Not Five by Susan Greenwald has been instrumental in helping my children visualize math concepts. It turns a bunch of numbers on paper into something real and tangible for my children to work with. As I was teaching them some of the math tricks in this book, I realized Susan (the author) had found a simple way to explain exactly how I actually see math problems in my mind. I never could have explained it this well. This curriculum is easy enough for my 5-year-old - he loves it and asks for more - and yet is still interesting enough to help my 9-year-old fill in some gaps in her math knowledge without being bored. I highly recommend this curriculum." Reviewed by Kimberly Duell, Broken Arrow, OK. Homeschool mother of four children, ages 9, 5, 3, and 17 months.

• Walls of Jericho is fun!

  It gives you instructions to read before you play, or you can by-pass them if you know how to play. The graphics are pretty good. You use the mouse to do everything you need to do very easily. The music is ok. You can change the music also. It's basically a block game. You line certain blocks up to get the wall to fall down. I thought it was pretty enjoyable. Chaney (my 8 year old) really enjoyed it. She said she got to level three and she only played for a short time, Of course, she played it several times after that. You have to think fast to play the game but it is a good game to work on concentration. There isn't any Bible learning in it, but it is a fun game. I think it would be enjoyed by 7 year olds and up. We rated this game an 8 out of 10. Reviewed by Joetta Wilson and family.

• What Really Happened in . . ." compiled by Terri Johnson.

Terri Johnson has collected a variety of historical biographies written by various authors and compiled them into books according to time periods.

"What Really Happened in Ancient Times" includes biographies on Eve, Noah, Gilgamesh, Imhotep, Daniel, Cyrus the Great, Eratosthenes, and Constantine.

"What Really Happened During the Middle Ages" includes biographies on St. Patrick, Theodora, Alcuin, Good King Wenseslas, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Joan of Arc, Johann Gutenberg, and Martin Luther.

What Really Happened in Colonial Times includes biographies of Pocahontas, Lady Alicia Lisle, James Cook, Rachel Walker Revere (Paul Revere's wife), Admiral Lord Nelson, Catherine Ferguson, Lucretia Mott, and Narcissa Whitman.

The books are easy to read and written to interest students of all ages, whether as a read-aloud or read alone (recommended for ages 8+). These books are guaranteed to get your children interested in history! The biographies are written by current authors and even some homeschoolers! Highly recommended. I'm looking forward to reading "What Really Happened in Modern Times" coming out in Spring 2008.

• Wonders of Old, A Blank Timeline Book of World History.

If you need a resource for teaching history using a timeline and love the look and feel of a "real" book, you'll love Wonders of Old! This is more than a school book - it's a family keepsake! Terri has created this oversized, hardcover book to "help your students understand and 'see' the progression of history with interactive and engaging timelines. It includes decorative pages on which to write historical events or attach timeline figures. Terri has also included significant dates for each period and a place for notes in the back. This is a homeschool resource that will be treasured for years.

For more homeschool curriculum suggestions, check Curriculum Recommendations

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