Homeschool Rising: Shattering Myths, Finding Courage, and Opting Out of the School System

by Christy-Faith Christy-Faith

Homeschool Rising is a guide for anyone interested in homeschooling their children, regardless of background.

In Homeschool Rising, educator Christy-Faith offers insights from more than twenty years in the field and her experience working with thousands of students to debunk these myths and misconceptions.

The truth is, homeschooling sets today's students up for success in a way that traditional schooling no longer can. This authoritative yet casual and accessible guide provides parents the tools, courage, and knowledge to opt out of the school system and take charge of their children's education.

- See why homeschooling is a great option for kids of any race, religion, and background

- Gain the knowledge you need to start your kids off on the right foot with homeschooling

- Make sure your homeschooled kids are getting the support they need academically and socially

New and experienced homeschoolers looking for support, as well as educators, psychologists, and others who work with homeschooled children will love the clear, evidence-backed, and conversational information in Homeschool Rising.

Genres: Education, Parenting, Nonfiction

Audible Audio

Published May 14, 2024

Reviews

[Katie Klein · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will definitely be recommending this to those who are making the leap into homeschooling! What an equipping, confidence-building read and I love the research she included!

[Amanda Bolding · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was a first generation homeschooler, born in the 80s, homeschooled in the 90s when no one had heard of such a thing. I found Christy-Faith on IG so I read her book. My kids go to private school, but I very much support homeschooling and homeschoolers’ rights. While the book was good, I was hoping for something more. It was a rehashing of the same homeschool defense I have heard my entire life - test stats, socialization questions answered, the history of compulsory public school attendance etc. The three stars aren’t based on the quality of the book itself. If you’ve never read a book about homeschooling before it is a great place to start. I was hoping to for something a bit more fresh and different since it is written by a modern-day IG homeschool influencer, so it fell a bit flat and redundant for me.

[Faith · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're someone who is on the fence about homeschooling, or if you're interested in learning more about its current momentum in the US, this book would be great for you. I am firmly in the homeschooling camp, so I was already aware of a lot of the information in this book (hence the 3 stars).

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not the intended audience for this book. I have homeschooled for over sixteen years now, and I’d have to say that this book is for those who are wanting statistics and facts to be encouraged to homeschool. I did find the information interesting on how our education system has changed over the years, but other than that it often felt repetitive and full of information that I already knew. Some readers might really need this read though. There were some helpful tips on multiple aspects of homeschooling that I think those new to the idea or at the beginning of their homeschooling journey would find encouraging and helpful.

[Kashia Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Families are flocking to homeschool and dissatisfied with the public school. This book picks apart why our modern education system isn’t working and why homeschooling is!

[Rachelle Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, that was fascinating. Compelling. Empowering.

Steeped in research, this book made me even more convinced of the educational approach my husband and I have committed to for our family.

As a second generation homeschooler who has a dear friend who is a public school teacher, I did think her tone came across as a little harsh at times, but the reality that the public school system is broken is pretty harsh, too.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ll keep this brief. Christy seems warm and cute and I have enjoyed watching her on social media, so I got her book. This book is for people considering homeschooling, not for anyone with any experience with homeschooling. If I knew nothing about homeschooling, this would of been a nice little over view. As it was, it took me way longer to read it because I was bored. I started skimming sections because I just knew all the information she had to offer. I was hoping for some suggestions on sibling fighting, curriculum, how to work through sticky spots in education, but it was farm more general with a hefty dose of “you got this”, and I’m over here, having homeschooled my now freshmen in high school her whole education going “but do I?!”…. There are better homeschool books if you have experience but this is a good one to gift someone who is homeschool curious.

[Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

The quality of writing here i would call average and her debate style is very black or white without much acknowledgment to the other side which makes me think i probably wont reccomend this book. That being said… in the week of reading this book i went from planning on hybrid schooling next fall to full blown throwing myself into the nitty gritty of planning on 100% homeschooling next year, reaching out on fb groups to find social opportunities for jessamy and making sure all her needs are met

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could have been shorter but I learned a lot! A very informative (Secular) book on homeschooling stats, history, and how it can be implemented.

The stats on literacy, math, standardized tests, SAT/ACT, and college performance and graduation rate between public school-educated kids vs homeschooled kids is astounding. Not to mention the suppression of creativity and individuality that occurs from a "one-size fits all education" that is our current system of learning.


Some takeaways:

-25% of homeschool families are secular
-41% of homeschool students are black, Asian, Hispanic, and others


The modern, traditional school pedagogy thrives on regurgitation, standardized testing, and an overwhelming amount of homework that serves little to no purpose, and age-segregated caste of academics, and authoritative instructions. p99

The increase in peer orientation in our culture is linked to increase suicide rates among kids. when studying teens who attempted suicide, the primary motive towards suicidal inclinations wasn't unhappy home lives, as many of us would think. When these kids were interviewed, the key trigger for the great majority was how they were being treated by their peers, not their parents". p 153

It's not just homeschooling parents who see children being exposed to way too much far too early. In his book Simplicity Parenting, Kim John Payne highlights the importance of recognizing children are not developmentally prepared to handle the overwhelming burden of the adult world. According to Payne, modern society imposes adult-like expectations on children, which deprives them of a healthy and balanced childhood." He advocates for simplifying children's lives by reducing excessive stimuli, schedules, and pressures. Payne emphasizes the significance of creating a nurturing and protected environment that respects children's natural developmental needs. p34

It's common for homeschoolers to:
-Read different books than their school friends
-learn classical languages
-have a lot of freedom in their day
-make academic decisions with their parents
-be accustomed to an environment with mixed ages, including adults
-take different types of classes, such as logic and rhetoric and nature study
-enjoy more interest-led learning
-do a lot of learning outside the home, not the once or twice a year field trip
p159

[Stevi Lorenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book!
I really appreciate how Christy sets out the research studies, statistics, historical facts, and personal anecdotes in a way that feels approachable and easy to understand, yet she never sugar costs the realities of our school system. I feel like you get just the right about of info to get a good base knowledge, which you can then take off from there if you choose. While there wasn't a lot of new info for me (as I've spent the last 6 years researching homeschooling and education like crazy) I think this would be an amazing starting point for new homeschoolers, as well as a nice refresher and extra encouragement for seasoned homeschoolers.

We need more honest and unapologetic people speaking out just like Christy, as there are so many misconceptions about homeschooling and education in general. She addresses all the major concerns in a way that is no-nonsense and yet sympathetic and kind.

[Stephanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Granted I *am* a homeschooler who grew up homeschooled - so I agree with her ultimate point already..homeschooling is great.

But this felt like a very privileged, very fundamental view of how inherently "evil" the public school system is and how amazing magical homeschooling is. It also felt like a slap in the face to people who have given their whole careers to teaching - especially in underprivileged areas.

We don't live in a system where most people have the opportunity to homeschool. And this didn't take that into account.

I think there are many better books on the subject.

The last two chapters on "de-schooling" and "you are enough" (though that one is poorly titled) were great and I feel like not enough people talk about the need of de-schooling and taking your time in the beginning and I do think that concept could serve many new homeschoolers.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a mom forced into homeschooling and yes I mean forced by my middle child’s therapist that wanted him to continue ABA therapy full time and dealing with the struggles of my oldest daughters IEP and 504 plan, I first went down the rabbit hole on social media where I found Christy Faith and all her videos. She has helped me feel more comfortable about this decision and even thankful that we have to for our family, there is no doubt in mind now after reading all the information in her book that this is what’s best for my children and my family. THANK YOU for making this book and helping moms like me.

[Kaity Meade · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good. Heard Christy-Faith at a homeschool convention recently and then listened to this audiobook. Basically this book is all the reasons homeschooling is great, so if you are struggling with your decision or contemplating whether to join the bandwagon, this is for you. This book is not faith-based. Her reasons for homeschooling are all about how it is superior both academically and developmentally. Of course, I believe it is the best option for children spiritually as well, but it's nice to be validated in my suspicion that is just all around a great option. Ditch the boxes, the busyness, the endless testing. Embrace freedom, childhood, connection, rest, and real learning.

[Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our current school system is failing our children. They’re not only not receiving the education they deserve but they also have to deal with a litany of challenges each day. Peer pressure, stress, bullying, violence. What are parents to do?

Enter Homeschool Rising. Christy-Faith challenges the norm and offers a fresh and timely challenge to the status quo. Read it and be encouraged. This isn’t your mama’s homeschooling book. You and your kids can keep your sanity while getting an excellent education outside of the rat race.

I highly encourage all to read this book.

[Jeff Hennore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life-changing book! I have been on the fences on homeschooling for years, but Christy shoved me over and I'm all-in. The book is witty, entertaining, and statistically backed. I feel like it has something for everyone; i.e., skeptics, advocates, and everything in-between when it comes to homeschooling. Grateful to be emboldened to take this next step in our family's journey, and highly recommend all to at least give it a read whether you have children or not. Thanks, Christy!

[Becca Conner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audio of this and absolutely loved it. It was JUST the thing I was looking for with information, statistics, and history of the school system and homeschooling.

If you are someone who is interested in homeschooling or don’t believe homeschooling could ever work, please read this. It’s good for everyone. I appreciate Christy-Faith’s passion and her bravery to present the facts as they are and also encourage parents that a change is doable!

[Tessa Westbrook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I began homeschooling my children after being a public school teacher for 8+ years, and I often doubt myself in this role. This book reminded me of the reasons we began this journey, and offered research into the history of education to reflect how we have developed this broken behemoth.
This is a must read for anyone homeschooling, considering homeschooling, or related to a school aged child.

[Abby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely geared more towards the beginner homeschooler (or those thinking of it) as it focuses more on unschooling and listing all the reasons one should homeschool (which most of us already know). However, I wish I would have read this 4 years ago! Still, a confidence booster for all those that homeschool which is nice in any season.

[Sara Hubbard · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Audio) I needed this book! It’s filled with some really cool stats about the history of traditional school and homeschooling, as well as a general positive attitude about this journey I’ve chosen. It’s a great reminder and a warm hug!

[Crissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've followed this author for years now on social media. I was looking forward to reading this! It was pretty good overall. A lot of the information I already knew though.

This book is heavy in the research department.

[Samantha Natoli · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for anyone considering homeschooling!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like reading books like this every so often to boost me in my journey. Good book as an intro.. but the audio was a bit annoying

[Yelena U · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to read - like having a coffee date with a friend - Christy addresses a lot of issues that one encounters on the homeschooling journey. Great read for a new or veteran homeschooler!

[Rachelle Karr · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 Good general overview on homeschool, history of education, etc. def biased but appreciated her education background

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rated—G (my personal opinion based on content)

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is a must read for seasoned and brand new homeschool moms... and those just thinking about it

[Rachael DuLaney · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️
but hardly….. I really enjoyed the first part of this book say 45%. But then it got repetitive. Idk I think it’s a good read but you have to take it all with a grain of salt.