Book List – Reference Books

These are my most treasured reference books.

Some are invaluable for planning.  I refer to others  for solutions, activities and suggestions.  Some are relevant for junior children, while others are excellent reference books for high school learners.  Many of these books are so comprehensive that they form the foundation of much of my curriculum planning.

I’ve included the devotional books that are precious lamps to our path as we continue our homeschool journey.

You are welcome to look at other inspirational books on my Book List Page.

	An Easy Start In Reading ISBN 0-940319-00-4 An Easy Start In Language ISBN 0-940319-02-0 An Easy Start In Arithmetic ISBN 0-940319-01-2 Ruth Beechick’s “3 R’s” These 3 little gems are an essential “must-have” for new homeschool moms or for moms with young children.  They have pages of  practical ideas and basic principles.  I have found enough material in each book to use as she suggests that I did not need a single workbook or curriculum package for these subjects!  Easy to read and apply her ideas – and they work!
	You an Teach Your Child Successfully Grades 4-8 Ruth Beechick ISBN 0-940319-04-7 This book takes moms beyond the basics of her three R’s (above) and covers reading, writing, arithmetic, as well as all the other subjects through middle school.  Again Ms. Beechick outlines all the principles and basics and describes very practical applications and exercises to develop all the necessary skills. A homeschool mom’s “How-to-Bible”.
	The Essential Spelling List by Fred J. Schonell A basic book of spelling lists, ranging from beginner 3 letter words to 5 syllable high school words.  I use this with the high-frequency /common-words from Ruth Beechick’s lists (above).  By adding your thematic words you will have a complete spelling program!
	Remedial Education in the Primary School M.C. Grove’ & H.M.A.M Hauptfleisch,  1982 I purchased this amazing resource at college and have used it extensively during my homeschooling years.  It presents the theory and assessment of remedial issues or difficulties. Many  practical ideas, exercises and applications are suggested.  (This is where I get many of my remedial manipulatives, worksheets,  flashcards  and drill ideas!) (I’m not sure if this book is still available, but you could look for something similar online or at educational bookstores.)
	The Mind Map Book Tony Buzan ISBN 0-563-37101-3 A wonderful book describes the thinking and learning processes and outlines the practical methods of mind mapping.  A very useful tool for High school scholars who need to revise and summarize a lot of material.  An excellent method to teach middle school children how to plan, summarize or present information.
	Fun and Games with Smile Doreen Maree ISBN 1-875077-09-X Smile is a South African Education Company specializing in educational games and equipment.  This book has ideas and games for all physical activities. Presented with occupational and physical therapy principles explained clearly. What I enjoy most about this book is that they have basic applications for every skill and progress to more advanced levels for every apparatus. So if we are using bean bags (for instance) there are beginner games which lead to more complex activities. Fun, practical, colorful illustrations, easy to use ~ this is my junior physical education programme!
	Our 24 Family Ways Family Devotional Guide Clay Clarkson of Whole Heart Ministries ISBN 1-888692-07-3 A beautiful family devotional book focusing on growth in Christian character. He presents each family way over 5 days with a special story, scriptures, discussion topics and prayer guide for each day. We have used this book twice and it has challenged us yet encouraged each one in character. We will certainly reuse it again in the future and trust the Lord to take us deeper.
	Simply Grammar An Illustrated Primer Karen Andreola ISBN 1-889209-01-5 Karen Andreola’s book uses Charlotte Mason’s approach to teaching grammar.  She presents short lessons.  Each grammar element is simply explained and there is an easy application for each lesson. Each lesson ends with summarized principle or grammar rule.  It is beautifully illustrated.
	Beautiful Girlhood Karen Andreola ISBN 1-883934-02-8 A wonderful intimate book to read to a blossoming young daughter.  She shares precious values  and the book offers many principles  and attitudes not found in this modern era, but which are infinitely more precious.  I’m re-using it with my middle daughter and I have found that the book acts as a “third party” so that we can discuss the ideals  without the sense of being challenged by the other person.  I’m so grateful for this tool to guide my young women into womanhood.