This long-awaited book on Charlotte Mason`s philosophy provides a wealth of insight, practical advice, and narratives illustrating how the ideas of the famed turn-of-the-century educator actually work in "real life". With warmth and humor, Karen weaves together her own stories of the joys and struggles of the education life and Charlotte`s high ideals and firmly-held principles. As you explore in these pages what Karen calls "the gentle art of learning," you will discover how to: recognize a "living book," use narration, teach reading, spelling, and composition, appreciate great art, classical music, poetry, Shakespeare`s plays and Dickens` novels, keep a Nature Notebook (for science), take part in hero admiration (for history), establish helpful habits, create a loving home atmosphere, and more! A must companion for The Original Homeschooling Series by Charlotte Mason. pb., 384 pgs.