Homeschooling Almanac, 2002-2003: How to Start, What to Do, Where to Go, Who to Call, Web Sites, Products, Catalogs, Teaching Supplies, Support Groups

I rely on the reviews of others when I buy books. After reading one review listed here, I was concerned that the information would not be reliable. However, upon reviewing the NEW edition, I discovered that the authors have not only updated the legal and support sections, but have updated resource info and even the discount coupons included in the book. As an old-time homeschooler, I can say that this stuff changes in the homeschooling world almost daily, and the authors deserve credit for staying abreast of the latest legal news as well as the constantly changing homeschool support group information. A big round of applause is deserved for keeping the resources up-to-date too -- which also changes with the wind. My favorite parts of the book are the "typcial day" and "curriculum" sections. Everyone who has homeschooled for any length of time knows there is no such thing as a typical day or a typical curriculum. We also know everyone assumes that there is. The Lepperts have provided a glimpse into what a typical day and a typical curriculum might be like. They are careful to let the reader know that one-size-does-not-fit-all. That's exactly what makes homeschooling such a wonderful choice for so many square pegs who don't fit the round holes of traditional schooling. This is a MUST READ for anyone considering homeschooling -- and the coupons are a nice plus as the discounts they offer really do help pay for the cost of the book!

This book was absolutely wonderful and full of information for persons like myself considering homeschooling. What I found most unique about this book was that it gave examples as to what was wrong with public/private/parochial schooling without bashing them. Also, it delved right into the negative factors of homeschooling, honestly but without overpowering. After reading over 6 books about homeschooling, I am purchasing this one because it offered the most help, as well as a clear and concise listing of available resources. The author did a fabulous job of including his and her experiences, as well as that of others. It strove to answer questions without being preachy, which can hardly be said for so many others. Again, these resources were listed, and helpful information was given about most. Anyone considering homeschooling should purchase this book, and forget most of the rest.

I am new to homeschooling and have looked to a lot of places/resources/people for information and advice. I had checked the 2000-2001 version out at my local library. I liked it so well I wanted one at home to reference at any time, as well as share with others. It has lots of information and resources from suppliers to support groups. If you do get the older version the cpns are expired, the 2002-2003 do not expire until 2002, and I believe some not until 2003.

After careful consideration of the question "why homeschool?" this book gently led me through the basics of how to get started, with generous examples from others who have successfully done it. After reading it cover-to-cover, I now find myself asking "why not?"This book doesn't give you the blow-by-blow of homeschooling, but it does give you great overviews of general styles, solid reasons to start the journey and lots of resources to consider for developing your own style. It's even got a great section on materials that have been reviewed for homeschoolers which, for me, helped clear some of the glassy-eye I got after one trip to a curriculum fair, and replaced it with solid recommondations on products I can really see myself using.The book is also full of coupons, the most interesting to me were the free trials of several homeschooling magazines. If you're even considering homeschooling, I would recommend this book as a great place to start.

I had the opportunity to review the book and also interviewed the co-author Mary Leppert for our website, homeschoolzone.com She took the time to share her views with us on the homeschooling movement and a bit about her personal life with her children. I really enjoyed the book and it has an easy to read style and is very useful. The coupon section will be very useful to homeschoolers on a shoestring which basically pays for the price of the book.