I just completed a very thorough go through of The Well-Trained Mind, by Jessie Wise and Susan Wise Bauer.  Notice that I said "go through" and not "read".  I could not get very far in this material because something seemed to be missing. 

I suppose I was curious about this book because of hearing it mentioned for years and also hearing Wise-Bauer's name mentioned as author of the Story of the World books.  Then there is also the fact that she is speaking at the Cincinnati Homeschool Convention.

Here is what I discovered in the book that is often compared to Teaching the Trivium, by the Bluedorns (which I couldn't put down!).  There is no comparison!  The most important thing I can say about The Well-Trained Mind is that it does not mention God even once.  There is absolutely no Biblical perspective, or any other spiritual thing, mentioned.  There is one brief mention of a possible History addition to your studies by looking at the Old Testament.  That's it. 

I've understood from the many people that I've heard discuss the history curriculum Story of the World, that the lack of Biblical viewpoint is why many try it, but many move on to other things.

Teaching the Trivium, on the other hand, is specifically directing us in the teaching of our children toward things of God.  All toward building their Biblical perspective, foundation and relationship with Christ.  Both would be considered classical education. 

I'm very thankful that the Lord gives those who seek Him the ability to discern His presence--even in curriculum.  I'm not exactly sure why this author is a top featured speaker at a Christian convention.  Maybe that tells me it's not a Christian convention.  Maybe I don't have a clue what I'm talking about.

What I do know is that without Biblical principles, we do not know God.  Without teaching them to our children, we can not see them know God.  This is not a little thing to be left out of a curriculum.  There is a purpose in it being left out.  The purpose is to leave God out of education.  Sound familiar?

If you are gearing up for curriculum buying or convention going, think upon the things of God and rest in Him.  I'm pretty sure the decision making will then be made easy.  Be careful, though, what you hear (like the little song?) and in the moment or enthusiasm of those surrounding you, forget your purposes set forth by the Creator.  Stick to the things of God--all else will pass away.