by Karen Andreola
This unique book actually has a two fold purpose. It"s a story written especially for moms who get discouraged and feel like giving up on homeschooling, as well as a guide to nature study. It"s written as the diary of one mother"s year of teaching her children at home.
Carol is the main character. In her diary, Carol pours out her secret hopes, joys, and disappointments. Does she get frazzled? Yes. She is on her feet a lot, caring for the needs of her family. Her heart is full of service, so it is no surprise that come nightfall she is frequently fatigued. How does she manage? Carol feeds her soul by reading in snatches. Her sister-in-law sends her a copy of Miss Mason's Home Education and she decides to put Miss Mason's principles to the test.
On her new homeschooling adventure not everything works out smoothly, yet she is happy her children find their new books interesting. She also takes joy in the simple things she considers to be God's blessings. She goes on nature walks with her children each Wednesday afternoon. Together they observe God's marvelous creation and record their findings into their Nature Notebooks.
Pinecones is not just a story. It is a teacher's resource filled with practical ideas. The story will gradually introduce you to ideas for all four seasons. Sprinkled throughout are nature poems and verses, and Latin names for the over 200 living things observed by the characters. One or two study questions are at the end of most chapters. Passages by Charlotte Mason are referenced. Softcover · 272 pgs. with over 75 pencil illustrations.
