Nonfiction
By Susan Wise Bauer
Professor, homeschool mentor, and writer Susan Bauer explains how parents can take charge of their children’s K-12 education. She spells out how to “flex” a child’s education so that the school system and curricula fit the child and not vice-versa, ways to work with teachers and coaches, and much more. She also offers worthwhile advice on helping your child develop a vision for the future and plan for college or apprenticeships. Her clear thinking and engaging prose make this book a winner.
Mystery
By Sarah Fox
Emersyn Gray is trying to get on with life and doing it badly. She is her niece’s guardian, but unemployed and broke. Her last boyfriend ran off with her money before dumping her. To get the money back she tells him she hired the fictional “Wyatt Investigations” to prove he stole it. A hunky stranger named Wyatt impulsively helps her when she confronts the boyfriend. Then, the superintendent in her apartment gets murdered, pulling Emersyn, her friends, and Wyatt in to investigate who did it.
American History
By Matthew Spalding
When Thomas Jefferson penned the Declaration of Independence, he was not bent on presenting any new ideas. He said he wanted to present “the common sense of the subject,” and therefore wrote many of the ideas and ideals already firmly believed by the members of the Second Continental Congress. Spalding’s new book demonstrates how the words of the Declaration echoed the political, religious, and philosophical beliefs held by the founders that were established centuries prior. An excellent work.
Biography
By John A. Adams Jr.
One of the most consequential figures in Texas history, Oran Roberts is almost entirely forgotten today. This new biography of Roberts remedies that. It reveals the full complexity of a giant of Texas history. He had many positive accomplishments, including terms as Texas governor, and furthering the Texas education system, including creating black colleges, in the late 1800s. Yet he was an unrepentant secessionist. This book shows even great men often mix shortcomings with brilliance.
Classics
By A.G. Sertillanges
First published in 1920, this guide remains in print for its wisdom and special insights. Though modern technology has dated some of its methods, it covers everything from the importance of silence and meditation for thinkers to ways of gathering information and writing. Sertillanges is an ideal guide not only for academics but for all serious students making their way through school and life. It’s a book that begs to be read with pen in hand—ready for underlining and commenting on his thoughts.
For Kids
By Sarah Stewart and David Small
This Caldecott Honor-winning picture book takes place in the 1930s and features young Lydia Grace Finch who goes to live in the city with her Uncle Jim, a grouchy baker, as her parents struggle economically. Will Lydia Grace’s love of gardening bring a smile to her Uncle Jim’s face? Told through the girl’s letters, this is a charming read-aloud.
