Let’s face it – sometimes homeschooling can be tough. Often it seems like we have more questions than answers. Reading Organized Ramblings: Home Education From A to Z is like sitting down with a veteran homeschool mom and listening as she shares thoughts and wisdom gleaned from over 20 years of homeschooling. In true Titus 2 fashion, mother of 12 and author, Catherine Jaime, tackles topics ranging from Art & Music to Zoos & Museums and everything in between. Although she is happy to share lots of tidbits and practical advice, I appreciate her comment in the introduction: "…I don’t have all the answers; I don’t even know all the questions!….what has worked best for us (her family) now may not be what works for your family. Only you can decide. And what works best for us now may not be what works best for us in a few years. Life is, after all, a series of changes." In a world where anyone who writes a book is deemed an "expert", it is refreshing to hear from someone who recognizes that her way is not the only way!

Each chapter in Organized Ramblings stands on its own so you can read the book from cover to cover as I did, or simply choose the topics that are most important to you. Scattered throughout you will find suggestions of resources that the author has found particularly helpful over the years. In a relaxed, down-to-earth manner, the voice of experience speaks loudly on topics such as, teaching preschoolers, developing your own philosophy of education, teaching teens, drama & Shakespeare, standardized tests, saving money while homeschooling, transcripts, unit studies, using learning games, the importance of having a support group and so much more. Whenever you read a book like this one, it is important to know where the author is "coming from". First of all, though not a "Christian" homeschooling book, the author is a Christian and she makes frequent references to her faith throughout the text. Regarding, her philosophy of education, Mrs. Jaime lets us know that over the years her family has tried many different educational methods. Words like eclectic, delight-driven, Charlotte Mason, and classical homeschooling are used as she describes her journey and philosophy of homeschooling. It is evident that the author has a strong aversion to textbooks, particularly in the elementary years. Now, if you are a mom who prefers textbook learning, don’t let her aversion to them keep you from reading this book! There is so much practical wisdom offered here that all readers will benefit from reading (and re-reading) Organized Ramblings.

Whether you are a new or veteran homeschool mom, Organized Ramblings: Home Education From A to Z is one of those books you will want to read with highlighter in hand. The margins are even wide enough to make notes of your own as you have those "Ah Ha!" moments – and if you’re like me, you WILL have those moments! So grab a cup of coffee, or whatever beverage you prefer, and prepare to be encouraged and equipped for the incredible calling of home educating your own children.

Making the grade: A+
Cost: $18.00
Value for your homeschool dollar: 10
Reviewed by Cindy Prechtel, Editor
Homeschool Reviews For You, ©2004
www.homeschoolingfromtheheart.com