Download a Jane Austen Library

Few names in classic literature are as well-recognized as Jane Austen.  You can download her most popular books here:

Pride and Prejudice  http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/1342
A family of sisters put up with their mother's obsessive matchmaking.  Humorous, moral, and heart-warming.
Sense and Sensibility  http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/21839
Another family of sisters learn what truly makes for happy marriages.  Themes of sisterly love, devotion, and good sense.
Emma  http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/158
A spoiled rich girl learns matchmaking only ends in disappointment and heart-ache.  Teaches humility, forbearance, and kindness. 
Northanger Abbey  http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/121
A bookworm girl learns that life is not like the horror books she reads.  Promotes level-headedness, fairness, and goodness.

I have read these four titles by Austen and they are all a fascinating look into the manners and life of 19th century  English life.  They are not objectionable in any way, any imprudent or sinful actions have consequences.  They will appeal mostly to teenage girls and women of all ages.

If you would rather order a printed copy of the books, you can do so here:
 Pride and Prejudice
Sense And Sensibility
Emma (Modern Library Classics)
Northanger Abbey (Vintage Classics)

Check Out Ambleside Online

Ambleside Online is a jewel of an educational library, especially for homeschoolers.  Using Charlotte Mason's approach to education, they suggest hundreds of books to study, read, and enjoy.  Categorized into years, it is easy to find a book for the grade level you desire.

The biggest downside to this website is that there are very few reviews of the books they suggest.  Over the next several months, I plan on reading and reviewing some of the recommended reading from this site.  Check out their site and keep checking back here to see what new reviews are up.

Your Imput is Important

As I am reviewing books and posting useful educational tips and information, I would like to know what your questions are.  Is there a book that you would specifically like reviewed?  Do you have a favorite classic author and would like to read more books like their's?  I will research and do what I can for you for these questions or others.  Leave a comment or email me at classicsreview@yahoo.com.

Story Starter Idea #1

"I don't know what to write about!!!"  Have you heard that lament either from yourself or someone you teach?  Often it is helpful to have a story starter, an idea to get your creative juices flowing.  At least a few times a week I will post story starter ideas.  Send your story to classicsreview@yahoo.com for a chance to have it published on this blog.


"You will be careful now, won't you?" her mother warned.  The girl nodded quickly and rushed off into the woods.

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch

I have chosen a very special book for my first review.  Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham received the Newbery Medal, and it well deserves it.

Based on the true life story of Nathaniel Bowditch, a young boy who was self-educated, this book details his journey from boyhood to manhood.  Bowditch was best know for writing the "Sailor's Bible" (The American Practical Navigator).

This book contains nothing objectionable whatsoever and is a wonderful read for middle school and up.  The fast-pace of the story also makes it wonderful for reading aloud.  Boys will probably find this book more interesting than girls, due to the nature of the sea adventures, but I enjoyed this very much myself as a young teen girl.

Summary
Genre:  Biography, nautical, adventure
Rating: ***** (five stars)
Possible Objectionable Content:  None
Reading Level:  Middle School and up

Welcome One, Welcome All!!!

The purpose of this new blog is to provide resources and ideas for anyone who wants to learn.  You may be a homeschooling mom, an avid reader, or a curious visitor.  Coming soon you will find book reviews, links to free ebooks, writing ideas and tips, and a plethora of other interesting tidbits.  Keep coming back, you never know what useful item you will pick up.