When I started school in the fall of 1979, my parents gave very little thought to where I would go. I went to the nearest public school, just like everyone else. We lived in a small town with only one private, Catholic school, so around 98% of the kids attended public school. Today, many parents consider a range of options. There are public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, private schools (religious and secular), homeschooling, and even combinations of public or private schools with homeschooling. When my son started kindergarten three years ago, I struggled with this decision. We have an excellent public elementary school nearby, but I seriously thought about homeschooling as well. In the end, we chose public school…for now. Every year, I rethink this decision, and I wouldn’t hesitate to make changes in the best interest of my child.
In her new book, Love in a Time of Homeschooling, Laura Brodie tells about the decision she made for her own child. Because she felt her daughter Julia was struggling in the regimented public school setting, Ms. Brodie decided to homeschool Julia for her fifth grade year. While striving to maintain and exceed the fifth grade standards for math and English, Ms. Brodie hoped to free Julia from the monotony of filling in blanks and bubbles and give her a year of exploration and discovery.
What the author realized, however, is that the student is not the only one who explores and discovers! As the mom and teacher, Ms. Brodie learned a great deal about history and science while learning even more about herself and her daughter. Love in a Time of Homeschooling describes the mother/daugher journey and explores the lessons learned, as well as how the year of homeschooling affected family life and schooling in the future.
If you are interested at all in homeschooling, I highly recommend this book. I have read many books about homeschooling, and the one aspect of this book that I truly appreciated is the author’s brutal honesty. Ms. Brodie and Julia had some wonderful experiences along with some horrible experiences, and both are shared candidly. As a former public school teacher, I smiled when I read about the “dismal days of February.” Homeschoolers can rest assured that many public school teachers have similar feelings during the winter months!
I know that many families choose to homeschool for religious reasons, so I will point out that religion played no part in the author’s decision. I believe, however, that this book is relatable to anyone interested in homeschooling. No homeschooling experience is perfect. All families will experience moments of wonder and times of great satisfaction during the year. On the other hand, I am sure that all families experience times of frustration and doubt as well. Love in a Time of Homeschooling is a story about a homeschooling experience, but at its core, it is a story about love and about finding the paths that are right for our children. That is something any parent can relate to, regardless of where your child learns his ABC’s!
For another take on this book, be sure to check out Carrie’s review at Reading To Know. Carrie was homeschooled, so she brings years of experience to the table.
If you would like to win a copy of Love in a Time of Homeschooling, please leave a comment on this post. We will announce the winner on June 2nd.
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Lauren is a wife, a mother of two, an avid reader. She blogs at Baseballs and Bows. Thanks to Harper Collins for providing the review copy of the book.
Upstatemomof3 says
We homeschool and I am still finding my way in the homeschooling world. I am always happy to read a new book that will guide or encourage me.
Carrie, Reading to Know says
Hey,
I didn’t know you were a former public school teacher, Lauren! I learned something new today!
I thought your review was very interesting and insightful. It was fun hearing your thoughts on this one.
Thanks for sharing!
Renee' says
This sounds like a really interesting book. Thanks for hosting this give away!
edj says
Well I love the title! And it sounds like a different kind of book about homeschooling.
sheila sudlow says
hi i thought you may like to read our blog posts on home education see cheekychums on wordpress dot com
Amy says
I am a homeschool mom and enjoy reading books about homeschooling. this book sounds like a different perspective. Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy.
Amy says
Sign me up! I want to read this one!
Julia says
As a homeschooler I would really love to read this book!
Dianna says
sounds like a great book.
stephanie says
I’d be interested in read this … we are finishing our first year of kindergarten homeschool, but like you, we are planning on rethinking every year to see what we need to do. 🙂
Becky says
This book sounds lovely! Thanks for the giveaway!
katklaw777 says
Looks interesting, thanks.
Stephanie's Mommy Brain says
I’m another home school mom. Sounds like an interesting book.
Page Turner (Heather) says
I’m a second-generation homeschooler, and I love to hear other people’s stories. Thanks for hosting this giveaway!
Hailey says
sounds interesting. count me in!
Seth says
I’m definitely game for a copy, though I suspect I’d have to wrestle my wife for it.
Sherry Early says
I’d like to read this one.
Sarah at SmallWorld Reads says
I’d love to have a copy of this for our HS support group’s library!
Margaret says
I homeschooled my grown sons. Now they are having children. I still love everything about homeschooling, though I am teaching in a private school. This would be a wonderful book to read and to pass along to those thinking of homeschooling.
Marci says
I’ve heard a lot of good things about this book – I’d love to read it, so thankful for the chance to win! I appreciate it.
Steph says
I am homeschooler myself and I think this book looks fantastic. It has been quite a journey for us and is the best decision we ever made.
Jennifer (5 Minutes for Books) says
I’m reading this right now (well, I was reading it, and put it aside, but I’m picking it back up again. It’s pretty interesting).