Buying guide · History
History at home is mostly good books read aloud, maps, and a timeline on the wall. A spine (one main book you read in order) keeps you on track; biographies and novels bring each period to life.
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| Pick | Best for |
|---|---|
| The Story of the World | World history in grades 1 to 6 |
| A History of US (Joy Hakim) | US history in middle and high school |
| Who Was? biographies | Independent readers, ages 8 to 12 |
| A Child’s History of the World (V. M. Hillyer) | A classic read-aloud spine |
| Usborne or Kingfisher history encyclopedia | A visual reference for all ages |
| World wall map and timeline | Seeing where and when |
Chronological or topical. Many homeschoolers cover world history in order over four years, then repeat with more depth.
Read-aloud or independent. Younger kids need you to read aloud. From about 5th grade, kids can read the spine themselves.
Activities. Map work, narration and coloring pages help younger kids remember what they heard.
Best for: World history in grades 1 to 6
Four volumes of world history told as stories, from ancient times to the modern age. Activity books add maps, coloring pages and projects.
Good to know: Audiobook versions are popular for car rides.
Best for: US history in middle and high school
Ten volumes of American history written like a narrative, with primary sources in the margins.
Good to know: Older editions turn up used at good prices.
Best for: Independent readers, ages 8 to 12
Short, illustrated biographies of people from every period. Easy to match to whatever era you are studying.
Good to know: Great for narration and short written reports.
Best for: A classic read-aloud spine
A warm, conversational overview of world history written for young children.
Good to know: Written in the 1920s; some views are dated, so read it with your kids.
Best for: A visual reference for all ages
Pictures, maps and short sections on every period, for when you need more on a topic.
Good to know: One good encyclopedia serves the whole family for years.
Best for: Seeing where and when
A map on the wall and a timeline you add to each week make history stick.
Good to know: Laminated maps take dry-erase marks.
No. A good spine, library books and a timeline cover what most states require. Keep a reading log as your record.
Read the same spine aloud to everyone, then give each child work at their level: narration for little ones, written summaries and research for older kids.
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