This classic 6-volume set tells our nation’s story from a conservative and Christian viewpoint. Back when I was a boy, history was a subject for which I had little appreciation. But after Linda and I attended several homeschooling and family conferences, I began to see the importance and relevance of learning history, and this was one of the works on American history that I enjoyed. Using a more interesting literary style than most historians, Carson goes beyond the basic facts and brings in noteworthy background information. Miniature biographies of important figures of the day are sprinkled throughout. Each chapter begins with significant quotes and a chronology of the main events. The first five volumes cover the time span from 1607 to 1985. The sixth volume (1985-2001) contains more editorial content but less history. A teacher’s guide makes the instructor’s life easier; for each chapter, it contains summaries, discussion questions, people and terms to identify, and suggested activities.

As much as I like this series, I must confess that our 17- and 15-year-old daughters were less enthusiastic. Perhaps Cathy Duffy (CHECM - Jr/Sr High) is right when she pegs it as a college/adult level series which should only be used in high school by very mature students or as a reference. But for those with enough interest, this is an excellent choice.