Something that I think that is very challenging not just as a homeschooler, but as a parent, that gets even more challenging as they get older, is finding good quality books for your children to read. Media is a very powerful influence. It helps to shape our thoughts, ideals, and values. I can't always pre-read every book the children bring home, and especially in today's world, many books are full of things I don't want the children reading. That's why it is important that there are companies like Salem Ridge Press out there.
Description: Salem Ridge Press was established in 2005 by Daniel Mills, a homeschool graduate, to bring back quality books from the 1800's and 1900's to this generation of readers. Twenty seven books have been republished so far and sample chapters of each can be found on their website. They work very hard to assure that all of their books uphold their standard: "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things (Philippians 4:8)." Their complete list of titles are arranged: alphabetically, by author, by age range, or by time period. Or you can search by New Releases, Historical Fiction, Adventure, Allegory, or Younger Readers. Many of the titles on their website can be bought in either softcover or hardcover, and their prices range from $10.95-$26.95.
I received:
Soldier Fritz and the Enemies He Fought A Story of the Reformation by Emma Leslie (softcover $10.95 Hardcover $20.95)
Read a sample chapter here.
Fritz chooses a Bible for his birthday gift from the peddler's pack so he can become one of Martin Luther's soldiers for Christ. When his father the Count goes off to war, Fritz and his family are forced to pretend to be commoners and hide in the forest to avoid being thrown into prison for their faith. They must learn to trust in the Lord and wait for their father to find them.
Young Robinhood by George Manville Fenn (softcover $10.95 hardcover $20.95)
Read a sample chapter here.
Young Robin gets left in the forest after Robin Hood's band steals his families goods. How will he be able to escape from the forest? Will he be able to learn how to survive?
Down the Snow Stairs, or From Goodnight to Goodmorning by Alice Corkran (clothbound $24.95)
Read a sample chapter here.
Kitty cannot sleep on Christmas Eve. Her disobedience has caused her little brother to fall ill. She travels to Naughty Children Land in a dream where she meets many strange creatures. She wants to return to the Path of Obedience but can she resist the many temptations and return to her family before Christmas?
What We Liked: I love the whole idea of a company who is committed to republishing good quality literature that upholds moral standards. I like the amount of care and time Salem Ridge Press puts into every book they publish, editing out derogatory comments they find unnecessary and even editing their illustrations to make sure there is nothing unwholesome included in their books. Although textbooks have their place at times, my favorite way to teach is to use "living books." Their website is arranged to make the type of book you are looking for easier to find. The titles and topics of their books are interesting and educational, and they have titles that will appeal to both boys and girls. The children really enjoyed the books we received and there were calls of ,"read more please!"
Somethings to Consider: Since the books are republished from the 1800-1900's, the vocabulary at times can be a bit challenging as there will be words you might not ever have heard before. I don't think this is a negative thing, just something to be aware of. Some of the words they define at the bottom of the page which is very helpful. I read-aloud the books to Nick (8) and Alex (6), and Chelsea (13) read them on her own.
My Recommendation: If you are looking for wholesome books of good quality with good moral standards that can be enjoyed by your family, go here and visit their website. There is something for everyone!
I received a complimentary copy of Soldier Fritz, and complimentary e-books of Down the Snow Stairs and Young Robinhood to use with my children for the purpose of writing a fair and honest review. I received no other compensation.
No comments:
Post a Comment