Finding Fun Books

When it comes to enjoying reading, what you really need are some fun books. Not that everyone's definition of fun is the same! But, who would want to read a boring book?

I've just relaunched one of my own websites with lots of information on how to find great reading suggestions. I learned a lot during the process of writing, especially about which publisher produces which ranges of books, where to find great reading lists, and how to find stuff on Amazon.com (often-times I've been frustrated to mainly see best sellers, most of which I'm not interested in).

You can find all of the information about best books at my site GreatFunBooks.com. I've not written specifically for homeschoolers this time, though I do mention that homeschoolers really value non-fiction kids books. I think that's one of the myriad reasons that homeschooled kids know so much. I also did pretty extensive research on early readers for the page on best books for kids so, if you have a pre-reader or early reader at home be sure to check that page out.

Do let me know what you think and whether there is other information you'd like to see there.

Free Environmental Education Curriculum

The No Impact Project has come out with a free environmental education curriculum suitable for middle and high school kids.

I've not registered to download the curriculum so I can't comment on the details. What I can tell you is that I respect the work of Colin Beavan who has lived his no impact experiment with his family. I have every faith that this curriculum has quality content.

According to the website, the environmental education curriculum:

• contains 5 lessons - consumption, energy, food, transportation, water
  
• incorporates internet-based video clips
• is designed to be taught in 50 minute lessons
• is suitable for grades 6-12, but can be adapted for other ages/grades
• the author is "Cari Ladd, M.Ed., is an educational writer with a background in secondary education and media development. Previously, she served as PBS Interactive’s Director of Education, overseeing the development of curricular resources tied to PBS programs..."

You don't need to own the No Impact Man book or DVD in order to use the curriculum. If you want to take it further you can join the No Impact Experiment one week carbon cleanse.

15% Off at Staples

For those who missed the $1 sale at Staples, or who need to shop for something specific, here is a 15% off at Staples coupon. It is only valid today and Saturday, 01/30/2010 and is not valid on computer purchases. It is an in-store coupon, not for online purchases.

Homeschool supplies you might consider purchasing for 15% off at Staples: binders and sheet protectors (my favorite way to file projects and notes); pens (I'm always losing those); sketch pads; printer cartridges; and calculators (I think they have a range of math and science calculators). Here is a link to the Staples Calculators online - I expect the range at the store will differ.

You might compare Staples prices before making a trip though, sometimes you can get the same price online, and save yourself the gas and travel time. Locally I find Costco and Target to be economical for the limited range of office supplies they sell - I've found binders and sheet protectors for good prices.

Check the ACT calculators permitted list if that is a consideration.

Compare Texas Instruments calculators at Amazon.com (affiliate link).