It’s been quiet on my blog for almost a year! It’s hard to believe I’ve been quiet in this space for so long, but I’ve been very busy behind the scenes. Last winter I began to work very hard on overhauling my book proposal. Years before I had had an agent and had shopped this book proposal around to various publishers. Now, I was agent-less, but the belief that someday this book would be born never left me. I was certain it would happen eventually, even if I had to self-publish it. In March I went to Square Halo’s conference and I felt like I found a place that represented the type of work I wanted to do. The people Square Halo attracted were the types of writers and artists I appreciated. Once the proposal was finished I sent it off to Square Halo.

I waited and waited.

Then I got the email. My proposal was accepted! I turned from reading the email at my desk to tell my kids the good news–and burst into tears!

All summer I labored over this book. It’s been such a journey over fourteen years and I hope to tell the full backstory soon. And when I do, I’ll be sharing it in a new space. Although I will keep this website, I have now joined Substack and I’ll be sharing all new content there from this point on. I hope you will join me and subscribe to my new writing home. If you subscribe my posts will come directly to your inbox and you won’t miss a thing.

I hope those of you who have been my faithful readers for so long will consider helping me launch my book into the world! On March 4th With Child: Encountering God Alongside Mothers in the Bible is going to hit the shelves. Will you join me in spreading the word?

What You’ll Get:

Some fun swag: a free copy of the book and two desktop wallpapers.

Special access to a private Facebook Group that will walk you through the launch process. It will include weekly discussion questions to promote community among members. It will also include some live Facebook videos with me.

A chance to win a very special print!

What I Ask of You:
Commit to be involved in the With Child launch team in the following ways:

Read the book over the month of February
Write reviews on Amazon / B&N / Goodreads
Share the book on social media 

If this sounds like fun to you, please apply by filling out this Google Form. If you are chosen to be part of the launch team you will get an email and I’ll share all the details with you!

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Far From the Madding Crowd

I read Thomas Hardy’s novel last year and really enjoyed it. It was one of my top books from the entire year and I also watched the film–and might have even loved it more than the book! The movie is masterfully done. The casting is fantastic, the plot follows the book faithfully, and the cinematography captures the pastoral farm scenes. Watch the trailer here.

War and Peace

I read War and Peace ages ago and was mostly confused who was who with all the Russian nicknames. I found I liked Anna Karenina much better, but I also read it when I was older and made sure I had a good translation. I’d love to reread War and Peace, but until then, I adore this film adaptation. It manages to capture themes that Tolstoy wrote about in both novels, such as the search for meaning of life and grasping after faith. It’s a great series to settle down into during these last winter days.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

This heart-warming book manages to tackle a serious subject like World War II with a redemptive ending that celebrates the ability of humans to brave heartache and loss. The film adaptation changes some things but it still captured the heart of the book and I really liked the casting. Michiel Huisman embodied Dawsey and I liked Lily James as Juliet. Watch the trailer here.

All the Light You Cannot See

I read this novel in my book club back when it first came out and liked it very much although I did find it dense to read at times. Although there are significant changes between the novel and the Netflix adaptation, I still really liked it for its own sake and what this version brings to the story.

Surprised by Oxford

After finding out this film was coming out, I picked up the memoir that inspired it. While at times the book felt like it had clunky dialogue and the length of the book was a tad longer in length than necessary, the film version nicely picked the best parts of the book and tied them together. I also liked how it started towards the end and then flashed back.

I hope you’ve discovered at least one book to film adaptation you might have missed seeing! How about you, what’s your favorite adaptation you think is “under the radar,” so to speak? Feel free to post in the comments to bring your own recommendations.

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This was the year of the classic book for me. Of course, I’m still reading contemporary books. On my list I included a modern fantasy, historical fiction, memoir, and current day police procedural. But of the top 10 books there’s a total of four solid classics on the list, as well as some books about classics.

Instead of sharing my complete booklist with you from the past year as I used to do, I am doing what I did last year and choosing my top 10 books of 2023: 5 fiction and 5 non-fiction picks. If you wish to see all the books I read last year, head on over to Goodreads.

Top 5 Fiction of 2023

Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy

This was my first time reading Thomas Hardy, which is kind of embarrassing for an English major who loves British Literature. I really loved the two main characters. Bathsheba felt very modern for a Victorian novel and is a woman who inherits a farm and is determined to run it herself. Gabriel Oak was strong and steadfast and understated. I loved it.

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorn

No man, for any considerable period, can wear one face to himself, and another to the multitude, without finally getting bewildered as to which may be true.”

Somehow I missed reading this classic novel during high school and never really had a desire to pick it up. I can imagine as a high schooler I’d have read it through the “romance angle.” However, having lived so much life and having experienced more than one church/ministry scandal I read this book through a much different lens.

Sadly, human nature usually sides with what one of the main characters, Dimmesdale, does—hides sexual wrongdoing in shame. However, Hawthorne (and the Bible) teach us another way—exposure through repentance. There would be a lot less church scandals if we could learn what it takes Dimmesdale seven long and anguished years to learn.

Also, the edition with Karen Swallow Prior’s forward and discussion questions is fantastic.

The Cartographers by Peng Shepherd

This book was a super fun read! Nell Young is working at a dead end job after being fired by her father from her dream job at the New York Public Library. But after her father unexpectedly dies under mysterious circumstances, Nell becomes wrapped up in uncovering a secret from her past that’s been kept hidden from her.

I loved the concept of this book and touches of magic. I think it’s perfect for readers who enjoyed Mr. Penumbra’s 24-hour Bookstore.

What the Wind Knows by Amy Harmon

This book was hard to categorize, but it was essentially a historical fiction time travel book. I’m usually not really into time travel, but I did enjoy this one. I also really loved delving into Ireland’s early 20th-century history. Having recently enjoyed Derry Girls on Netflix, which focuses on teenage Catholic girls in Northern Ireland in the 90s, I appreciated going even further back in time. I also found myself constantly googling “Michael Collins” and “Countess Markievicz” to learn more about these real-life characters who featured in this fictional story.

Duncan Kincaid and Gemma James series by Deborah Crombie

This series has stolen my heart when it comes to police procedurals. Like the Inspector Gamache series, it takes a few books to really get in stride with the series, but once you do, you are hooked. Honestly, the first book is probably my least favorite, just a warning to not give up with the first title. The series follows Scotland Yard’s Superintendent Duncan Kincaid as he solves crimes with his Sergeant Gemma James. The characters grow and develop and the mysteries are compelling.

Top 5 Non-Fiction of 2023

The Abolition of Man by C. S. Lewis

For the power of Man to make himself what he pleases means, as we have seen, the power of some men to make other men what they please.”

With thought-provoking quotes like this, Lewis sets it to persuade his audience of the importance of universal values. Indeed, this book hypothesizes where we are today: no universal values which ultimately brings about the abolition of man. Like a prophet he traces how we as a culture dehumanize others. Even ideas such as empathy and love are in question (Ann Rand would argue that selfishness is a virtue, which many wouldn’t outright say they believe but I think we see it lived out in various aspects of culture). A timeless book I couldn’t stop thinking about for days.

Steeped in Stories: Timeless Children’s Novels to Refresh our Tired Souls by Mitali Perkins

When I picked up this book I knew each chapter would discuss a different classic book from children’s literature. What I didn’t expect was that it would be written from a Christian worldview. Nor that it would so deftly deal with tricky issues in older literature such as race, power, and oppression. Her first two chapters are worth the entire book.

In her first chapter she deals with issues that are very current. How do you deal with the offensive parts in children’s literature? She discusses two options: banning or editing. Her third solution is worth reading even if you read nothing else from the book. Her second chapter about finding goodness in a person is also fantastic. In it she shares her own worldview and Christian faith and how that influences how she reads.

This book is for every parent, homeschooler, teacher, or lover of children’s literature. I can’t recommend it enough!

Realms of Gold: The Classics in Christian Perspective by Leland Ryken

A thought-provoking book for those who love, read, or teach classics, Ryken discusses The Odyssey, Canterbury Tales, and Great Expectations. His discussion on Macbeth and the traditional genre of tragedy was superb and could be useful in teaching tragedies in general. He’s also convincing me to finally pick up The Scarlet Letter. A book full of insight and depth to assist you to become a close reader.

Common Sense by Thomas Paine

I’d never read Common Sense, the book that helped shape our nation. Reading it reminded me once again that people were coming into a completely new framework at this point in history. It’s easy to look back and point fingers and say the Founders should have made everyone free at the founding of our country. And yes, they should have. But we also need to realize the idea of personal liberties and equality were actually new ideas–even for white people. These ideas were literally revolutionary. People had been living with the idea of “the divine right of kings” for hundreds of years. The medieval feudal system left strong traces behind it even when it was offically gone. Indeed, this is the framework that Paine attempts to disrupt. He spills a lot of ink trying to show why, in his opinion, the divine right of kings isn’t “biblical” like people had thought. And he’s quite snarky.

Surprised by Oxford by Carolyn Weber

Carolyn is a graduate student who comes from a hard family situation but wins a full scholarship to Oxford University. Meeting TDH (Tall Dark and Handsome) prompts her to search and discuss her ideas about God as she studies, makes friends, and navigates her new academic world. I loved the descriptions of life in Oxford as well as the many literary references throughout. I immediately connected with her family situation and her independent nature. One drawback is the dialog just didn’t feel realistic at times.

What were your top 10 books of 2023?

The post The Top 10 Books I Read in 2023 appeared first on danielleayersjones.com.

I love January. It represents hibernation, coziness, a mug of hot chocolate and a good read. It’s a new mini-series to watch with the fire lit. January is introversion after December’s extroversion. It’s a fresh start and a new year.

Another thing I love about January is getting my new planner and dreaming of all the things yet to come, all the goals to plan, the dreams to ponder, and the work to complete. I light a candle and pull out one of my favorite pens (this one or this one) and begin looking at the new year.

I used to use cheap planners that zipped or snapped from Wal-Mart or Target. Then I just kept a digital calendar for a period. I still keep a calendar online. I use it mostly for appointments as well as things I want to share with my husband so we both know who-is-where-what-day. But I returned to the the physical planner again several years ago. First, I tried The Happy Planner. They were all the rage and they ARE so pretty. They have beautiful images, positive sayings, and you can buy fun stickers and things to decorate it and almost turn it into a scrapbook.

But The Happy Planner didn’t work for me. First, it was very thick and heavy. It wasn’t easy to slip into a bag or purse. Second, there were lots of sections I wasn’t using and was leaving blank. There was lots of wasted space.

My next choice was trying the Moleskine planner. I got a 12 month weekly planner in the XL size. I love this size! It is large but because it is so slim it isn’t heavy or clunky. It might be too large for some people, which is fine because they also make two other smaller sizes. Sadly, the only negative thing is the XL comes in more limited colors. This year I purchased a lovely sapphire blue, but if you want more color options you’ll have to choose a smaller size.

I really like the simple set-up. Each week is listed down the left side of the page with a whole blank page on the right. This is perfect for me. I write in daily tasks, appointments, and so forth on the left and then put a running To Do list on the right. These are things not assigned to particular days, I just need to remember them and get them done.

Choosing a planner is very personal. You have to figure out what best works for you and your life. You have to know how you operate and how you don’t. This planner is not perfect for everyone. If you like a more feminine vibe and want motivational sayings this planner isn’t for you (although it can definitely be decorated!). However, if you like simplicity, I’d give the Moleskine planner a try.

IF YOU ALREADY HAVE A PLANNER YOU LOVE WHAT DO YOU USE AND WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT IT?

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That big blockbuster summer novel finally makes it into your hands. The much-posted Bookstagram title finally is on hold for you at the library. The novel that all the bookclubs are talking about finally arrives in the mail . . . and when you read it, you don’t really see what the fuss is about.

Has that happened to you? It has definitely happened to me!

Let’s talk about some popular novels that weren’t my cup of tea. That’s doesn’t mean they couldn’t have been your perfect book choice, however!

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

I think the main thing that super annoyed me about this book was that the vibe or tone of the book felt incongruous with what develops at the end. The book’s style is chick lit or a romantic comedy, but due to the heavy nature of the content it felt very incompatible to the genre and style the book was written in. This book had such hype and it just fell flat for me.

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

I didn’t finish this one–I tried–I even tried the audiobook! Many people who have a similar taste in literature as I do loved it, but I couldn’t make myself go on. It was one of those types of books I could appreciate. Patchett’s writing is very good–and yet I was bored and couldn’t stay interested in the story. Dare I say it was too much character development and not enough plot development for me? I can’t say I’ve ever read an Ann Patchett book I’ve really enjoyed (sorry) but I do recognize the fact she’s an talented writer.

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

I read The Nightingale and listened to Lilac Girls at the same time. Both novels cover W.W. II and both have characters that end up in Ravensbruck. Perhaps it’s unfair to compare them, but I can’t help it. I loved Lilac Girls and I had to force myself to finish The Nightingale. I’ve been pondering what made me love one and not care as much for the possibly more popular novel. Here’s why, I think.

Lilac Girls sparkled. I don’t know how else to describe it. Even when describing dark and disturbing history (and Lilac Girls was more graphic than The Nightingale) Kelly’s imagery and metaphors captured me. It didn’t feel like it was trying to hard or anything, it was just good. The sense of place she created was incredible. I felt like I was there. You know that old adage, “show, don’t tell.” That was key difference in the writing. I felt like Kelly showed and Hannah told. I know Kelly personally visited all the sites she wrote about. I’m curious if Hannah did too. If not, that could have made the difference. Also, Hannah’s writing just felt very “chick-lit” to me. Nothing wrong with that! But when writing about such a sweeping devastating historical event I thought Kelly’s writing did more justice to the content.

Hannah’s main characters, Isabelle and Vianne seemed like modern women put into a World War II setting. They did not seem authentic to me. Again, this is where Kelly’s research stood out again. The pop culture references, the details about clothing, etc. all helped create the atmosphere of the 1940s. Isabelle’s relationship with Gäetan didn’t feel authentic and Vianne’s attraction to Captain Beck–although understandable in such a situation–was not written in a way that felt believable to me. I just didn’t connect with the characters, unlike Kasia in Lilac Girls, who I desperately cared about and wanted resolution to her struggles.

The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin

I saw this book all over Instagram. It sounded just like something I’d like: World War II, bookstores, but honestly it was just meh. It didn’t draw me in. The heroine, Grace, just didn’t have much dimension. The love story was so gentle it lacked much attraction. When characters died it didn’t sadden me. I really wanted to like it but I forced myself to finish it, hoping something would change for me, but nothing did. It kind of felt like a Hallmark movie, which has its place, but didn’t grab me.

Rules of Civility by Amor Towles

Towles’ writing was excellent and the concept of the story was interesting, but I just couldn’t love the characters or get caught up in the story. I just could care less as to what happened to them. Also, why not use quote marks? Was there a reason for tossing out a standard form of punctuation? I found that distracting. I finished it, but my lack of enthusiasm made me put off reading A Gentleman in Moscow for a long time. I’m glad I gave that book a chance because I ended up loving it! Which just goes to show you one should always give an author a second chance.

How about you? What popular novel wasn’t for you?

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I read some fantastic books this year! From classics to new releases, I really enjoyed my fiction selections and it was hard to narrow it down to just my top favorites! And as far as non-fiction goes, one of my goals this year was to read more non-fiction from various genres. I feel like I really accomplished that. I read more than one fantastic biography (I used to love biographies but in recent years haven’t delved into that category so much), memoir, self-help, and a fantastic Advent book.

Instead of sharing my complete booklist with you from the past year as I used to do, I am picking my best 10 books of 2022: 5 fiction and 5 non-fiction selections. If you wish to see all 50 books I read last year, head on over to Goodreads.

Top 5 Fiction of 2022

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

I didn’t like Rules of Civility, which kept me from trying this novel for a long time. Even after I started it I wasn’t too sure what I thought about it, but I’m so happy I kept going. I became very attached to the main character and all the minor ones too. I enjoyed the tone of the writing and finished the book with a smile on my face.

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

I loved this book! I never thought I’d like a Dickens’ novel this much. Listening to the audio version read by Gildart Jackson definitely added to my enjoyment. And the ambiguous ending makes for a fantastic discussion!

All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot

While I was familiar with all of the Herriot picture books, I never tried reading his novels until I started watching the new PBS adaptation. Oh my goodness, I LOVED this book. It was so much more delightful than I expected it to be. Siegfried Farnon and brother Tristan are hilarious, as are many of the stories of caring for the animals and their quirky owners in Yorkshire, England, during the 1930s. I mean, sometimes I laughed out loud. I definitely will be reading more of the series but I really want to savor them!

Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr

A trusted friend told me to not read the synopsis of Cloud Cuckoo Land, but just to dive in. I think this is good advice, because it’s almost impossible to explain. I will add that it took me until halfway through the book to really be hooked–which is quite a lot of reading for a 640 page book. Then, it really took off! The story originates in ancient times and reaches into the future and entwines various threads into a beautiful tapestry. From Constantinople to Idaho to a space ship, the main characters all are connected. This novel also includes many references to The Iliad and The Odyssey. It’s not necessary to have read those books to understand the story, but it made me smile. It was a unique book that really is it’s own experience. If you like fiction with a twist and a nod to mythology, this is for you.

The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman and The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman

I’m afraid I’m overselling these books but they truly are one of the most delightful, funny, endearing, murder mystery series I’ve ever read. They really are one-of-a-kind! I want to be both Joyce and Elizabeth when I’m 70! I particularly like these on audio.

Top 5 Non-Fiction of 2022

It’s What I Do: A Photographer’s Life of Love and War by Lynsey Addario

The memoir begins with the kidnapping of conflict photographer Lynsey Addario by pro-Qaddafi forces during the Libyan civil war. From there it backtracks over the events of her life that led to Addario being a war photographer. She has covered most of the major conflicts that have developed since 9/11. From war in Ukraine or Afghanistan to rape victims in Congo, Addario’s photos are beautiful, heartbreaking, and poignant. Her book gave me a new appreciation to what it takes to be a war correspondent. For a full, in-depth review go here.

When a Family Member Has OCD: Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Skills to Help Families Affected by Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder by Jon Hershfield, MFT

I highly appreciated this book written to the families of people who struggle with OCD. The fact is, OCD affects every person in the family–not just the person who has OCD. It helps provide context for the OCD-sufferer’s struggle and also ways you can help–and how you can unintentionally help strengthen OCD tendencies without meaning to. It also helps with boundaries: what you can do and what is not your responsibility to be involved in.

God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew

An engaging book about the life and ministry of Brother Andrew, founder of Open Doors. Brother Andrew reminded me of a modern day George Mueller in his humble reliance on God to provide his needs and the needs of his ministry. As a poor Dutch young man he began traveling through Europe meeting with Christians in closed-off Communist countries. His work has now expanded to include the entire globe. I was so happy I read it before he died this year.

Agatha Christie: An Elusive Woman by Lucy Worsley

I was totally thrilled with this wonderful examination of Christie’s life. The audiobook version was entertainingly read by the author. I have enjoyed the film and television adaptations of Christie’s work more than I’ve actually read her books, but this has certainly made me want to read more of her novels. I particularly appreciated how the author approached Christie’s infamous 11-day disappearance in 1926 and how that often overshadowed her life and her family’s afterwards. If you enjoy The Queen of Crime, definitely add this to your list.

Heaven and Nature Sing: 25 Advent Reflections to Bring Joy to the World by Hannah Anderson

Anderson takes the Christmas story and the various symbols we are so familiar with and weaves daily essays for the Advent season with great skill, insight, and depth. I will probably be rereading it next year. Simply one of the best Advent books I’ve read in a long time.

What were your best books of 2022?

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Today I’m sharing many gifts I’ve personally received and enjoyed, as well as a few more I’ve asked to have under the tree. From mugs to accessories to puzzles, there’s a gift every book lover will enjoy.

This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Bookish Jigsaw Puzzles

Spend the holiday break listening to your favorite audiobook while putting together a jigsaw puzzle inspired by literature. Choose from The World of The Brontës, The World of Charles Dickens, The World of Shakespeare and more! I’ve asked for one to be under the tree for me this Christmas. Organize and don’t lose your pieces with this puzzle table too.

Rifle Paper Book Club Mug

I reach for this porcelain mug most mornings when I’m pouring my coffee. I purchased one for myself and my co-teacher this past year to celebrate the end of the school year. It’s special because the mug includes many titles I’ve taught in British and World literature. Did I mention I love it?

Boxed Set DVDs

Christmas is the perfect time to purchase your favorite boxed set mini-series or movie that you’ll watch over and over again. My favorites are always literature based. Last year I received the The Elizabeth Gaskell Collection which includes some of my favorite movies (North and South anyone?). I also loved the endearing Lark Rise to Candleford series and the ravishing production of Tolstoy’s War & Peace.

Boxed Book Set

I’ve asked for C. S. Lewis’ collection of classic non-fiction this year for Christmas. A long-time lover of his fiction, I’m eager to dive more deeply into his other books. Another favorite boxed set could include the James Herriot Collection (I’m loving these–I’m on book #2).

Jane Austen Zippered Pouch

Stay organized with this adorable pouch perfect for school supplies or toiletries.

Pride and Prejudice Book Scarf

I was gifted this beautiful scarf from a friend and it’s so warm and cozy. I can’t wait to wear it this winter!

Out of Print Products

I love Out of Print’s products and own the Beowulf relaxed fit t-shirt, Pride and Prejudice v-neck t-shirt, and the Composition tote bag. All of their t-shirts have held up to multiple washings and I use the tote bag weekly. I love their stuff!

What’s your favorite bookish gift that you’ve given or received?

The post Bookish Gifts for Women appeared first on danielleayersjones.com.

Encourage a love of imagination and literature with these bookish gifts for kids.

This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

My Reading Adventures: A Book Journal for Kids

I got this as a gift for my daughter’s last birthday and she loves to use it to keep organized and take notes for her YouTube channel. Perfect for any kid who wants to document their reading. There are also reading lists to inspire the discovery of more titles they may have not heard of.

Personal Library Kit

We bought this for my daughter and she had tons of fun with it. The kit includes bookplates but also can be used to play “library” which has always been something both of my girls have enjoyed playing together.

Yoto Mini

We are a huge audiobook family around here. I love the ease of iPads and Kindles, but hate the screens. Yoto has come up with a solution that I’m purchasing this year for our youngest. I plan to use it for classic books and music and it’s also portable.

Boxed Sets

Christmas is wonderful time to invest in a boxed set of books for your favorite bibliophile. They can definitely be expensive, but also can be collected and loved for years to come. I only buy boxed sets that I KNOW will be loved, so often this ends up being a series we’ve already read, but that I know will be cherished and reread. This year we are looking at this newly republished editions of Patricia M. St. John, The Mother-Daughter Book Club, or The Wingfeather Saga. Other favorites include Harry Potter, Ramona Quimby, and the Puffin in Bloom Collection.

Lord of the Rings Monopoly

Fight off Mordor by protecting the lands of Middle-earth in this LOTR-inspired special edition Monopoly game!

Classic Graphic Novels

The Illiad adapted by Gareth Hinds is one of my son’s best-loved books. He’s read it over and over again. Hinds’ illustrations are fantastic and he takes classic literature and accurately adapts them into graphic novels, which makes them perfect for creating a love of literature before a kid is ready to tackle the original work. He has great adaptations of The Odyssey, MacBeth, and Beowulf, among others.

Out of Print T-Shirts

So many cute t-shirts for all ages, from babies to adult! Not to mention tote bags, socks, and pencil pouches. Check out the assortment of cute bookish products for your favorite bibliophile! I love this When in Doubt Go to the library t-shirt and there are some cute onesies for babies.

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When the weather turns cold it makes me long to settle down with a good story. Perhaps a gothic story with old houses, haunted pasts, and mysterious heroines? Or maybe a thick classic novel I’ve never read? Or maybe a bit of magic?

No matter what I pick I think a mug of tea, a wedge of dark chocolate, and a soft throw are autumn accessories needed for autumn reading! Today I’m sharing some of my favorite gothic novels, some old, some newer.

Classic Gothics

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Catherine loves gothic novels and begins to imagine a gothic-inspired plot around every corner when she visits Henry Tilney’s family home, Northanger Abbey. One thing that makes this book different from all other Austen novels is how the narrator IS a character in the book and she makes lots of asides and comments about what is going on, which is delightful. A very funny take on many of Austen’s fellow contemporary writers.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Shelley was way ahead of her time when she contemplates: who is the monster? The creator or the creature the creator has brought to life and won’t take responsibility for? This classic is probably nothing like the pop culture ideas you have of it.

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

I have a hunch that those who love Jane Eyre don’t like Wuthering Heights and vice versa. I’m in the Wuthering category. I’ve probably read it about three times. The first time I absolutely devoured it. The characters are not nice or likable. If you are a person who must have “nice” main characters, you won’t find them here, but if you want interesting characters, Heathcliff and Catherine are definitely that. A classic gothic novel that would be fun to pair with Northanger Abbey.

Modern Gothics

Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
When the young, insecure, second Mrs. de Winter gets married without knowing her husband for very long, she’s plunged into a new life, a new home, and new expectations. She is also haunted by the first Mrs. de Winter’s legacy to the point of ruining her perfect new life. If you’ve already read Rebecca, try My Cousin Rachel.

The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton

This first novel by Kate Morton will always be my favorite. A mysterious book of fairy tales, an author who disappeared years ago, and a newly inherited cottage tempt Cassandra to begin looking into the past. This duel narrative will have you spellbound as it crosses time periods and oceans.

Once Upon A River by Diane Setterfield
When I mute child is discovered and brought to an inn near the Thames river, three families try to claim her. If you are a Kate Morton fan, then I think you might also like this one. I loved the touch of magical realism and I found the ending very satisfying.

What are your favorite gothic novels to read?

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The past few weeks I’ve been planning for the new school year. It’s always exciting and a little daunting to plan for the year ahead. This year I find myself in a new place, realizing this will be the last year the boys with be with us in some subjects (like history) as after this year they will be taking a class at co-op and then will have all the credits they need.

We continue to deal with various learning differences in our family. Although reading can still be a challenge it’s more the processing/executive function issues that are coming into play now that we are in high school. We already use several forms of assistive technology (speech to text and audio books) but will be referring to this wonderfully descriptive resource to continue to figure out what tools work best, especially in the note-taking realm.

Here are my curriculum picks for this school year:

Math

Math U See Beta (2nd Grade)

Teaching Textbooks 7 (7th Grade)

Teaching Textbooks Algebra 1 (10th Grade)

Science

Our co-op will be using Elemental Science Biology for the Grammar Stage (2nd Grade)

Human Anatomy at co-op along with the Human Body Workbook (7th Grade)

Apologia Biology at co-op which will include labs (10th Grade)

Reading

During this time my older kids have their own independent reading to do and wile they are doing that Ava and I will be doing her reading program, which is All About Reading 2.

This year some of their assigned readings will pertain to history or be other books they probably wouldn’t read without being forced assigned to do so. Some of their independent reading assignments this year will include:

Independent Reading 7th Grade:

YWAM Biography
The Door in the Wall
Adam of the Road
The Story Girl
Little Women

Independent Reading 10th Grade:

To Kill a Mockingbird
Romeo and Juliet
Into Thin Air
YWAM Biography
Do Hard Things
Microbe Hunters

Meeting Time (Also called Circle Time or Morning Time in the past)

This is when we read, watch, and discuss things all together. It always includes our history readings plus much more. It’s truly my favorite part of the day.

• CNN 10 (Current Events)
• Cycle 1 Morning Time Bundle from A Gentle Feast
  This will cover our Bible, hymns, poetry, music, and art appreciation
• Read a history selection from Beautiful Feet Early American History Primary Pack
• Read a history selection from Medieval History Senior High Pack
• The Fellowship of the Ring

Language Arts:

A Gentle Feast Cycle 1 Language Arts (2nd Grade)

Comp & Lit 2 at Co-op (7th Grade)

Comp & Lit 3 (10th Grade)

Electives

• Co-op Art, Gym, & Music (2nd Grade)
• Co-op Yearbook & Photography (7th Grade)
• Co-op Art & Gym (10th Grade)
• Fall Football/Winter Soccer (10th Grade)
• Music Lessons once a week (Girls)
• Winter Dance Lessons (2nd grade)

So there you have it. Our curriculum picks for the upcoming school year have been selected and ordered. Looking forward to learning, reading, making connections, and living this year!

Curriculum posts from other years:

2020-21 Curriculum Choices

Beautiful Feet Ancient History Review

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