Off the Grid in the Montana Rockies
Apr. 22, 2008
A Pocketful of Pinecones by Karen Andreola

Some call this a reference book, some call it fiction.  For me it was a beautiful mixture of both.  Pocketful of Pinecones is a must read for all homeschool mothers and one that I wish would have crossed my nightstand years ago.

The book is written in a diary-like style set in the 1930s.  It eloquently weaves together the days of a young mother; telling of her struggle, triumphs, and hard lessons learned - all the while giving the reader practical hands on directives to homeschool using the Charlotte Mason model.  

For reference needs, the author provides an extensive list of suggested reading, suggested activities, and real life examples of schooling from her own life.  The books also provides Latin names for many creatures and plants.  You will also have some art project ideas and a step-by- step 'how to' for nature study.  The real reference gift comes in the form of the story being told-how do I get away from bringing public school home and make homeschooling life?  This book is far from exhaustive in regards to a reference book, but it does more than just get you going.

I enjoyed the story being told mostly because I could relate to this mom.  Although she lives in the generation of my great-grandmother, I related to her heart.  Her heart for motherhood, her heart for her man, and her heart for simplicity.  She found peace in nature.  I have read some reviews that called this book archaic, old-fashioned, and idealistic.  Maybe for some it is, but I didn't find this mother's day much different from my own.

This book is a treasure.  Every homeschool mom should own her own copy.  You will read it many times over, refer to it for ideas, and pass it onto a daughter or daughter-in-law.  Pocketful of Pinecones is an original work full of wit and class.


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Apr. 26, 2008 - Love that book!

Posted by MooBeeMa


I am still savoring every page of this delicious book!


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