Heather’s Favorite Homeschool + Parenting Reads

Every once in a while I love sharing the books that are shaping my homeschool, my parenting, and my heart as a mom of two boys. If you’ve been around Abiding Wild for a while, you know that books are our favorite kind of “mentors.” They meet us where we are, remind us of Gospel truth, and encourage us forward when the days feel challenging.

Homeschool Encouragement

• Homeschool Bravely by Jamie Erickson – A must-read for any homeschool mom who wrestles with doubt (so basically all of us).

• Teaching from Rest by Sarah Mackenzie – A classic reminder that homeschooling isn’t about frantic striving but about peace, faith, and presence.

• The Brave Learner by Julie Bogart – Encourages you to bring joy, curiosity, and creativity into your homeschool. (secular)

• Walking by the Way by Erica Hunt – A gentle and practical voice for simple, Christ-centered homeschooling.

• Seasons of a Mother’s Heart: Heart-to-Heart Encouragement for Homeschooling Moms by Sally Clarkson – Anything by Sally brings nourishment and encouragement for weary souls.

• Rooted in Wonder by Eryn Lynum – A newer favorite, pointing us back to God’s glory in creation and enjoying nature-study.

• The Way They Learn by Cynthia Tobias – So helpful in understanding your child’s unique learning style.

  
  

Motherhood & Heart Care

• Hope Unfolding: Grace-Filled Truth for the Momma's Heart by Becky Thompson – A reminder that God sees us in the messy middle of motherhood.

  
  

Parenting Foundations

• Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles by Paul Tripp – Grounding parenting in the gospel changes everything!

• Shepherding a Child’s Heart by Tedd Tripp (not pictured but highly recommended) – A faithful classic on reaching your child’s heart, not just shaping behavior.

• Loving Our Kids on Purpose by Danny Silk – A refreshing approach that helps nurture connection.

• Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms by Justin Whitmel Earley – Beautifully practical ideas for weaving rhythms of faith and healthy life routines into everyday family life.

  
  

Raising Boys

• Bringing Up Boys: Practical Advice and Encouragement for Those Shaping the Next Generation of Men by James C. Dobson – Dr. Dobson is a long-trusted Christian mentor for parents, as the founder of Focus on the Family.

• Raising Boys to Men: A Simple, Mercifully Short Book on Raising and Homeschooling Boys by Durenda Wilson – A heartfelt guide for raising sons with courage and character.

• Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas – A needed reminder that helping boys name and manage their emotions is part of raising healthy men.

  
  

Bonus Favorite

• The Read-Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie – Books are at the heart of family culture, and reading aloud builds connection that lasts a lifetime.

  
  

Whether you’re homeschooling, raising boys, or simply longing for encouragement in your parenting journey, these books point us back to what matters most: Jesus at the center, home as a safe and loving place full of Gospel and grace, and children as gifts from God to cherish.

At Abiding Wild, our curriculum is born out of the same heart—helping families weave Scripture, wonder, and truth into the daily rhythm of homeschooling. Pairing rich books like these with intentional time in God’s Word (the most important book of all) lays a foundation that will last far beyond these fleeting years.

Which of these books have you read—or added to your list? I’d love to hear your favorites!

Until next time friends, Heather

This post contains Amazon affiliate links, and we earn a very small commission if you use these links to purchase these recommended books. This simply helps us pay our monthly bills, so we can continue bringing you Christ-centered homeschool content.