Top 10 Best Homeschooling Books for Anyone Considering Homeschool

When I wanted to start homeschooling, I had no idea where to start.  I had no idea what style I wanted to use to teach, I had very little information and very little time.  I want to help and encourage moms and dads who want to homeschool by presenting a list of the best homeschool books.  I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

1.  Why Homeschooling Makes Sense by David Guterson

This book is not about How to homeschool, it is about “why” we homeschool and is written by a teacher who homeschools his own kids.  It is a book that is good for both the Christian reader and the Secular reader.  The book covers a lot of issues.  It starts off with a discussion on why America holds public schooling so near and dear to its heart.  It discusses standardized tests, quizzes and schools teaching to tests.  Chapter 2 is a debate with the author’s father over homeschooling.  Chapter 3 is about socialization and that is just the start. There are many more chapters covering a lot of issues.   

2.  Homeschool Business:  Everything you need to know about Homeschooling by Shanda Cadet

This book walks us through the author’s personal journey of successfully homeschooling six kids.  This book is very Christian and Secular homeschoolers may not appreciate it as much as a Christian homeschooling family.  There is a lot of how to in this book, but it is disbursed with stories about the author’s experience making it an easy read. 

3.  1.      The Homeschool Parent’s How to Handbook by Lynn Dean

Another How to book.  The author taught seminars in Texas and I am certain you would have paid way more than the cost of this book to attend a seminar.  The book is filled with great information on things like teaching how your child learns (believe it or not, all three of mine learned differently), and incorporating the senses into learning so that what your child learns sticks with him or her….or all of them.  I personally loved this book.

4.   How to Grade Your Child's Writing: A Practical Guide for Homeschool Parents Grades 6-12 

You won’t need this book if you are just starting out, but boy is it ever helpful if you have older homeschoolers.  I am never confident in knowing if my child’s writing is as clear as it should be or if it needs work.   It contains rubrics that help you determine if your child’s writing is good or needs work.  Some homeschooling parents may feel this is too rigid, but I personally love to write and I want my kids to be able to write professionally if they choose to write.  

5.  1.      They’re Your Kids:  An inspirational Journey from Self-Doubter to Home School Advocate by Sam Sorbo

I love this book!  With chapters like “Poop in the Water” how could it go wrong? This book discusses what is wrong with today’s education, then the author’s personal story.  I loved both parts. 

6.  1.      Homeschooling:  An Ultimate Guide How to Teach Your Kids at Home and Give Them the Best Education by Carrie Dresden

With Chapters like, “The Benefits of Homeschooling” and “Learning Styles”, this book will help you decide if homeschooling is right for you. 

7.  1.      Homeschooling Today Homeschooling Guide by Margaret Knight

This book covers a LOT.  It even has a chapter on preventing burnout and homeschooling older kids.  As your child’s teacher, she refers to you as the Parent Administrator and has several chapters dedicated to your role as teacher. 

8.  Teaching from Rest by Sarah MacKenzie

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This book is a religious book written by a homeschooling mom of two.  Many people buy this book and read it over and over again and I am one of them.  This isn’t just a book about homeschooling, it is an inspiring book about life.  This book is funny, heartfelt and touching all at the same time and a must read. 

9.      Give your Child the World:  Raising Globally Minded Kids One Book at a Time by Jamie Martin

This is a collection of stories from around the world for your child.  While this is not a how to or a why homeschool book, I still included it because it helps create a well-rounded child with empathy for the rest of the world. 

10.   Learning all the time by John Holt

I have to include a book written by the modern day homeschooling movement.  While I do not agree with his thoughts that there should be no primers and no cursive, he is worth a read.  Even though I do not agree with him in a lot of areas, he is very opinionated and clearly writes what he believes.  You may agree or disagree with him, but the book is still great to read.