A Charlotte Mason Companion by Karen Andreola provides an introduction and overview to the education principles espoused by Charlotte Mason. Among the principles contained in this volume are: recognizing a "living book"; using narration; teaching reading, spelling, composition, and vocabulary; appreciating great art classical music, poetry, plays, and novels; keeping a nature notebook (for science); taking part in hero-admiration (for history); establishing helpful habits; creating a loving home atmosphere; and welcoming moments of "Mother Culture."
Website: A Charlotte Mason Companion
(5 Reviews)
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Contributor Reviews
Reviews are solely the opinions of the contributor.
Cons: Alot to absorb
This book changed my life as a home schooler. I read it over a summer which was the best time to learn about Charlotte Mason's methods and plan the next year. It all just makes so much sense, but the real testimony is that I started introducing it during that summer and saw my previously struggling learners start to retain things like I had never seen before. A great book to invest in since there is a lot in there and you will want to refer back to it.
I love this book and implemented many of the methods, especially when my kids were elementary age. Narration, Fine art study, Nature study, Living History books, etc., all these things I still implement in our schooling. Well worth the money.
Karen gives a terrifc explanation of the Charlotte Mason methods & I love the many, many ideas & suggestions for implementing the information! If you are considering Charlotte Mason methods, this is a MUST HAVE!
Delightful book! I agree, this is a great way to learn about Charlotte Mason's approach to education. Not just about home education, but really raising a child with tenderness and understanding, yet also with discipline this is a thoughtful book and one that deserves to be read over and over (at least, if you're like me & often need reminders!). The chapters in this book are nicely contained so that you can skip ahead to subjects you're more interested in at the moment. I mostly read it front to back and need to pull it out again. Bring your notebook or highlighter! Many good ideas for your own homeschool and reading list too.
Cons: BIG book - can be pricy and take a while to read all the way through
I absolutely loved this book!!! I wish I could have been educated this way. It just makes sense! Karen Andreola does a throuough job explaining Charlotte Mason's approach, methods, and idealogy. If you only read one book to learn about the Charlotte Mason approach to homeschooling, make this that one book! It is considered the "bible" of all Charlotte Mason-ers. I keep coming back to it all the time for more ideas or to refresh my tired spirit. I also recommend all of Karen Andreola's books. You will be hooked and fall in love with the Charlotte Mason approach!