Category Archives: Reading and Literature

Why Sonlight Uses Books That Some Homeschoolers Won't Touch

Our editorial team has very high standards for every book and product we carry. There is no item in our curriculum that has not been carefully and very thoughtfully selected. Even a book that you find distasteful, we have included … Continue reading

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"Dear Sarita, Why did you choose that book?"

I've received a lot of feedback in 28 years. I treasure the stacks of letters from Sonlight parents who love the books I choose. But occasionally, I get letters that criticize—or even express great disappointment—in the titles I so carefully … Continue reading

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4 Reasons to Read Books That Might Make Your Kids (and You) Cry

If you are a family that spends a lot of time reading aloud, you have probably found at least a few books that caused tears. Book after book we read each afternoon, my kids have learned the sob routine. Nearing … Continue reading

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How to See Beauty in Unexpected Places: Lessons from “Cornstalks”

I am a lover of poetry. My daughter, on the other hand, is very literal. Her mind is scientific and pragmatic, and while she can—and does—memorize how to properly use idioms, she doesn’t have an intuitive sense for poetic language. … Continue reading

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Since Sonlight Books Are So Good, Why Are They Ever Replaced?

Sonlight books are great! Even great books may be cycled out of our packages; discover why.

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5 Reasons Children Need to Read Books with Flawed Characters

There is much focus in the homeschool culture on wholesome reading material, particularly titles which feature boys and girls of exemplary virtue. In these books, the main characters consistently—if not inexplicably—model correct choices and praiseworthy attitudes. Such flawless characters, the … Continue reading

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Raising College Ready Students with a Literature-Rich Curriculum

A quote from David Coleman, president of the College Board and designer of the SAT and AP tests, caught my attention: “The single most important predictor of student success in college is the ability to read a range of complex … Continue reading

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