My 5 Best Books of 2023
Every year in my homeschool journey I discover a few books that I can’t help but add to my shelf as my inner librarian gives me a high-five. But the best part about books, other than staring at them, and stacking them and of course reading them, is sharing them with friends!
The Abominables by Eva Ibbotson
My family loved this as a bed time read-aloud book. It’s a chapter book and includes words that are higher level comprehension, but the themes and humor were understandable to my 7 year old. It’s based on an English girl who ends up raising a family of yetis and their eventual relocation to her family estate. I have found that Eva Ibottson’s books relish in the peculiarities of unique characters and champion empathy, a love of animals and humor.
Guns For General Washington by Seymour Reit
This short chapter book paints a picture of the early days of the Revolutionary war in a way that is intriguing and historically accurate. My 12 year old read it independently.
The Story of Salt by Mark Kurlansky
This is a picture book history of the importance of salt in the ancient world. It’s fun and captivating.
The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo
This is a newer chapter book in the lovely style of this well know author. The theme is emotional yet some how she keeps it light and hopeful. It’s about a girl who has lived through trauma in the death of her family, but finds unexpected comrades to help her live her life bravely and do her best to bring justice. It’s set in Medieval times.
We are the Gardeners by Joanna Gaines
I love to spend time in the dirt watching things grow. My little ones come back this book again and again. The illustrations are inspiring and the theme is growth in ourselves and our gardens.
