Viking Quest Books 3,4, & 5

Bree, Devin, and Mikkel all proved to be courageous in many different ways. Tell me your favorite example of "courage to win" in this series. 

Julia (12): "I like when Bree runs away from the viking ship with Lil."

Gabe (10): "Mikkel went back to Ireland. If the people found out he was there, then they would want to kill him. But he went there anyway, to return Bree and Devin. 

Evy (7): "Bree gave up her chance to come home. So Lil could go home."

Daniel (5): Bree was the bravest because she went on the boat."

Michael (5): "Mikkel was brave when Bree fell in the water." 

Mom's Notes: We couldn't stay away from Bree, Devin, and Mikkel for long! We were all excited to pick right back up where we left off. It truly feels like we've been along on the whole adventure with them. Mikkel's change of heart is beautiful and realistic, given the passage of time and events. We truly could not put the book down as we neared the end of the series, so we snuggled in and read for nearly two hours one Monday morning. (Hooray for a flexible homeschool schedule!) My hoarse voice actually made it to the very, very end, then suddenly gave out! It was kind of crazy. Anyway, I'm so glad these books are on our shelves so we can revisit and learn from and with these characters again. We want a movie!

A Christmas Carol

What scene do you think caused Scrooge to see how badly he needed to make changes in his life?

Evy (7): "When he saw his gravestone!"

Gabe (10): "Present and future, because he sees that Tiny Tim will die."

Julia (12): "When he sees Tiny Tim's crutches." 

Mom's Notes: It was about time we read aloud this holiday classic. I bought an audio version and we listened to it throughout the month, finishing it on our drive home from Grandma's house on the very Eve of Christmas. We all now feel a little closer to the story and we even have Scrooge's repentant and resolute quote on our card this year: 

Peter and the Pilgrims

Mom's Notes: This book was just right for our unit read. Some of the historical figures we were learning about came to life in Peter's fictional story. 

Viking Quest Books 1 & 2

Mom's Notes: So far we have read the first two books in the series, and we're taking a break to read some Christmas stories. But we'll definitely be back! While the literary merit isn't anything extraordinary, the storylines and suspense elements keep us interested and invested. Following the various characters' journeys toward forgiveness and understanding makes for thought-provoking discussion. And the way the siblings care for each other is refreshing and beautiful. We look forward the Book Three! 

My Father's Dragon

If you were setting out on an adventure like Elmer was, what would you pack in your backpack?

Daniel (5): "I would pack rubber bands, a comb-brush, a rope, and my car toy from Valentine's Day." 

Michael (5): "I would bring some fruits and some vegetables and some lollipops and sandwiches."

Mom's Notes: This was the first time for the buddies listening to this one. Of course they giggled throughout! I'll go ahead and ask the same question I asked the other kids after reading this favorite.

The Last Battle

Mom's Notes: Jonny finished reading this aloud to us on my 35th birthday. I had just been showered with hand-made gifts, a delicious pumpkin spice cake by Julia, presents from Jonny covering all five senses, and a refrigerator door decorated in cards and love. To finish the day with the final book in the beloved Narnia series was perfection. 

Daughter of the Mountains

Momo was incredibly brave! What do you believe kept her going even when faced with dangers and fear? 

Evy (7): "She knew the prophecy and she really wanted her golden terrier back, since she had been waiting a few years to get it." 

Gabe (10): "She had faith in her gods and she believed on the prophecy. She was desperate to get her dog."

Julia (12): "Her mom brought her up to believe in her faith in the gods. She was certain she would find her dog because of her faith in the prophecy."

Mom's Notes: This book complimented our sturdy of ancient Asia. While it's not set in ancient times, the customs and religions and regions were very prevalent to our study. I'm so glad we get to read these books suggested by the curriculum, because I doubt we would've picked this up otherwise. And we learned so much through Momo's daring journey!