Thank you Diana Johnson! Whew. Breathe. This is how I am feeling now that I have finally found a resource to calm my high-school-teaching-jittery-nerves.

Transcripts, computing GPA's, yearly study plans, college planning, keeping track of credits, requirements for college entrance - I was about ready to lose my mind (and I thought record keeping for grammar school was intimidating!). Since my daughter entered high school this year, I have been in a dizzy, guilt-ridden spin trying to figure out what was expected, required, and/or needed.

Although Home-Designed High School by Diana Johnson is not jumping with intricate drawings, or colorful pictures, it gives the reader EXACTLY what is needed, and is written in a very friendly and easy-to-understand manner (I'll trade bells and whistles for straightforward and understandable any day). I could actually picture sitting down with this calm, wonderful communicator over a cup of tea, as I felt the high school stress begin to wash away, page after information-packed page. Diana does an uncannily great job of anticipating when the reader's panic might spring up, and she is able to put things into perspective and offer hope, common sense, and gentle reminders that the entire high school homeschool adventure is one that is ultimately meant to glorify God, and needs not be overwhelming.

Diana Johnson also does a very thorough job at navigating through different homeschool techniques and methods, touching on plans that would incorporate varied approaches. Another thing I appreciate is the unbiased and candid pros and cons of each. This manual is incredibly helpful, and covers so much more than just the need-to-knows. It can be read in chunks (it is sectioned off brilliantly for those of us anxious to hear what's what on particular issues), or read straight through for a well-rounded, non-intimidating concept of what is expected of high school homeschoolers; it is especially geared for the college bound student. Whether you plan to homeschool using textbooks or a less traditional approach (Charlotte Mason or Unit Studies), this book is sure to clear up any confusion and stave off those high school jitters (or full blown panic attacks in my case). This book is a must have. Get it now, even if your students are in primary grades, and save yourself a stroke.



-- Product review by: Jenefer Igarashi, Senior Editor, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine