A thank you letter to my homeschool

K-Gr 4--With each new day, homeschooling provides education and discovery inside a completely unique package. Whether families are adventuring in a local park, driving to a previously unknown destination, or inventing at home, homeschool serves as a setting in which children have the freedom to explore all that inspires them. In this book, two children give thanks to all they receive from their homeschool experience. From the flexibility of learning locales to the extra time children can spend on difficult material or passion projects, homeschool permits students to be true to themselves and their interests daily. The text itself is written in a poetic style that emphasizes the many facets of that version of education. For readers familiar with homeschooling, the book provides positive messages of support and encouragement, and for those less so, this story serves as a window into what life in a homeschool environment can be like. Accompanying the text are charming, childlike illustrations that depict characters in myriad settings and experiences. Muted hues and ample details make the images accessible for young children, and a variety of skin tones and abilities are represented within the illustrations. Even the endpapers are filled with artwork and imagery that complement the bulk of the narrative. VERDICT Best suited to a more intimate reading setting, this book celebrates positive homeschooling experiences for elementary school-aged readers.--Mary R. Lanni

Two children extol the virtues of homeschooling. From hands-on activities to field trips galore, the young people in this tale are always learning. Sometimes that happens outside the home: at the beach, at a museum, on a hike, or on a farm. At other times, it happens inside: at the kitchen table, at a keyboard, or cuddled up on the couch. Children can learn with siblings, parents, or friends. Homeschooling can even take place on a road trip! Regardless of location, these kids have the opportunity to grow and explore at their own pace, whether they're devoting extra time to passion projects or slowing down to focus on challenging subjects. No matter when, where, or how it happens, the children celebrate the freedom to be themselves. This cheerful offering will serve as a solid mirror for homeschooled children, who seldom see themselves depicted in picture books; it's also a good introduction for those unfamiliar with the subject. Rather than a story, the narrative is made up of a brief, sunny prose list of statements expressing gratitude for homeschooling. Bright and softly rounded illustrations depict light-skinned children amid a diverse community. A loving reminder that learning can happen anywhere, at any time.(Picture book. 3-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.