MIC-badgeMentoring in the Classics has a new home, but for those already enrolled following our original schedule, here is the list, in order, of monthly readings:

Year One

MONTH 1: Introduction

Gatto’s Dumbing us Down is a fitting introduction, describing in uncompromising terms the need for the type of education we’ll pursue in this series.

MONTH 2: Orientation

Lindbergh’s Gift from the Sea simply cannot be read incorrectly; it is all about pondering, applying it to your life, thinking creatively, intuitively, authentically. Careful thought has gone into the succession from Gatto to Lindbergh – the former being an exposition of what is wrong, the latter, a “healing” book; first the “tell”, then the “show.”

The Audio Mentoring and Study Guide for Lindbergh are important, as they establish the unique and effective methodology by which this course will progress.

Please take special care to familiarize yourself with the 5 Levels of Engagement with the Classics outlined in the audio mentoring and the Study Guide. This will greatly enhance your enjoyment of the rest of the titles we cover, and help you to glean and apply from them in meaningful ways.

MONTH 3: Austen

As Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is a longer work, the months previous and following are less time-consuming. It’s a favorite – both familiar, and worthy of repeat reads. Is there a book out there that Hollywood has adapted more times? There must be a story there, LOL. You’ll have time to get into this lengthier title early, as Lindbergh is sweet, profound and actually quite concise, and a great backdrop for this insightful and witty work.

MONTH 4: Lowell

“The Present Crisis” (link downloads PDF) by James Russell Lowell is a profoundly beautiful (and short!) work, which Oliver will give a line-by-line treatment – thus reinforcing the participants’ ability to appreciate and comprehend the language of the classics. This provides a great segue-way to next month’s Shakespeare, which some have avoided because of the unfamiliar language, and which is so beloved by readers and theater-goers for generations.

MONTHS 5 – 6: Shakespeare & Potok

The progression from Two Gentlemen of Verona (the Shakespeare play on homeschooling) and Potok’s The Chosen is especially poignant, as they have similar plot elements. Both address the power of education, especially Scholar Phase education; both consider the affect of education and upbringing on the individual outcomes in adulthood.

MONTH 7: The Declaration

This month’s selection, The Declaration of Independence, (link downloads PDF) is a freedom classic that articulated for the world, then and now, the nobility of the human soul, and the inestimable worth of liberty. As this is a shorter title, you’ll have time to get started early on next month’s reading!

MONTH 8: Hugo

After 6 months of MIC, you’re ready for some deep and moving stuff! In our original rotation, this was our August selection – a month when many gear up for school again – and yet straddles the “summer/fall” line. Les Miserables does double duty as a great beach read and a serious scholarly challenge. Life changing! If you’ve read it before, you know; if you haven’t, you know you’ve been meaning to….

MONTH 9: Lewis

Again, the selection preceding the monumental Hugo is short, as is this month’s: Lewis’ “The Inner Ring.” This one is perfect to help define Why We Do What We Do. Originally our September 2014 reading, it is timely, as the advent of fall and “serious” school often puts our goals and methods under the scrutiny of measuring up to others’ expectations, and demands that we have clarity of vision and purpose, to follow our inspired–and inspiring–path.

MONTH 10: Schneider

Our October 2014 content first debuted in the season when many of our participants are in the thick of home or classroom studies, and so we introduce our first math classic (if you don’t count The Chosen – and maybe we should!). Schneider’s A Beginner’s Guide to Constructing the Universe is an easy read and tends to turn math haters into math lovers, and math lovers into serious math students.

MONTH 11: Bronte

This month brings another perennial favorite: the courageous Jane Eyre. Bronte’s beleaguered and faithful heroine always inspires such meaningful discussions. The Debriefing Audio for this title featured more than one serious about-face from our participants with regard to their love or hate of this book. Lively and penetrating, you’re sure to enjoy this one!

MONTH 12: Wilder

Our December 2014 reading highlighted a time when many of our participants suspend their normal routine to focus on family, traditions, worship and celebrations. In this spirit, we have chosen a great family read: Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder. If you find this a strange choice, trust us. It’s chock-full of amazing content – especially on the topics of family culture, education and community. Oh–and it’s not a “girl” book. Seriously. There are bears, whittlin’, and all sorts of manly fare.

And that wraps up our first year with Mentoring in the Classics!

If you want to look ahead to the upcoming titles, here you go:

Year II Schedule:

Year III Schedule:

Year IV Schedule:

Year V Schedule:

Year VI Schedule:
  • VI-1: Bloom, The Closing of the American Mind
    (Find out what all the fuss is about in one of the most quoted books of the 20th Century and the most influential book on education since John Dewey. Learn how to truly get off the conveyor belt!)
  • VI-2: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
    (The highly acclaimed modern novel written in the Pride and Prejudice Universe; beautiful writing, truly memorable characters, and a new “Elizabeth” and “Darcy” for modern times. Not a rehash at all–new and powerful.)
  • VI-3: Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter
    (Considered the great American classic on What makes a good community?, What is a real friend?, and What is true leadership? A Pilgrim-Age exploration of choices, secrets, and the power of integrity.)
  • VI-4: Shakespeare, Macbeth
    (One of the greatest plays ever written; mentored, so you get as much real depth as possible from reading it.)
  • VI-5: Moliere, Tartuffe
    (Title sounds strange, but this is one of the most excellent and important plays ever written on “What Is a Real Man?”, by Moliere, considered by many to be France’s Shakespeare.)
  • VI-6: Robinson, Intelligence
    (A dystopian novel worthy of sitting beside titles like The Hunger Games and The Giver, Intelligence tells a story that is crucial to our rising generation. ~J. Martin)
  • VI-7: Austen, Northanger Abbey
    (Considered by many the funniest and most relaxed/enjoyable of Austen’s six novels, and completes the Austen cycle. Discussion will include the pattern of all six classics.)
  • VI-8: Jung Chang, Wild Swans
    (Widely acclaimed as the best modern classic from China; beautiful, challenging, fun, and extremely memorable. Once you’ve read it, you’ll never forget it.)
  • VI-9: Coelho, The Alchemist
    (The internationally bestselling parable of happiness and finding/living one’s true life purpose. A true modern classic.)
  • VI-10: Sanderson, The Rithmatist and Euclid’s Elements, Book I
    (Fall in love with math [again?] and learn how to greatly teach geometry and other mathematics to youth. Fun, unique story.)
  • VI-11: Wister, The Virginian
    (The American response to Europe’s question: “What is a Real Man? And a Real Woman?” A moving early American romance, full of deep questions and important lessons that still apply today–perhaps now more than ever.)
  • VI-12: L’Amour, Education of a Wandering Man
    (Louis L’Amour’s non-fiction masterpiece on how to get a great education by teaching yourself with great books and great mentors; fabulous!)

Year VII Schedule:

  • VII-1: Elizabeth Gaskell, North & South
    This English classic was published in 1854 and compares the culture of the aristocratic British upper class with the rise of a new industrial-age merchant middle class. The results are explosive, fun to read about, and full of intrigue as well as amour. One of the great romances of English literature, North & South led the next generation of  Austen/Bronte-style romantic commentaries on culture, family, society, happiness, human frailty vs. inner nobility, and human nature. A truly great read.
  • VII-2: Shakespeare, Henry V
    How does a boy become a man, especially when he is suddenly raised to the status of King of England? Young Henry faces his own need to mature, overcome mistakes, and rise to the role of a true leader, while also engaged in a major war with France. The challenges along the way teach him, and all of us as readers, numerous lessons on growing up, becoming leaders, and knowing how to face the greatest challenges of life. One of Shakespeare’s greatest plays.
  • VII-3: Bronte, Wuthering Heights
    One of the great Engish classics, this work by Emily Bronte was published in 1847 and tackles some of the most challenging issues of human relations: class divisions, romance between people from different social classes, the treatment of women in English aristocratic society, and different views of morality in differing socio-economic classes. Above all, it addresses the dangers of religious hypocrisy, putting class position above love, putting love above making wise choices, and the wrong versus right kind of romance.
  • VII-4: DeMille, We Hold These Truths
    Current events in our times happen quickly, chaotically, and intensely. We Hold These Truths to Be Self Evident outlines and explains 12 key principles that will help you analyze everything that happens in current events and know what is going in the right direction–or not. They are also the basis of freedom in any society. Understanding these 12 simple but vital principles is essential for anyone who cares about freedom and wants to make sure we remain free in our volatile modern world, now and in the decades ahead. A book to discuss and share with the whole family.
  • VII-5: Varty, The Lion Tracker’s Guide to Life
    An instant modern classic, this book is narrated by a young lion tracker in Africa who learns from his older mentors how to pursue his life’s mission more effectively. The danger, hard work, love of the land, and connection to something higher than himself keep him going, while the wisdom of mentors guides him to surprising choices that make all the difference. A true story, moving, profound, and wise. It pulls the reader away from the modern world to reconnect with thoughts and feelings of what really matters. A great read.
  • VII-6: Homer, The Odyssey
    Along with the Bible and the Iliad, this is the original classic of Western Civilization. It also contains one of the greatest heroes in all human history and literature, the indomitable Penelope, and one of the greatest journeys of all time as experienced by the hero Odysseus. It is in this book that the word “mentor” was first used. The Odyssey is the original epic, saga, quest, pilgrimage, and classic, all rolled into one. Experience this great classic in the deep TJEd approach to mentoring, discussion, and searching out wisdom.
  • VII-7: Paine, Common Sense
    “These are the times that try men’s souls,” Thomas Paine wrote in 1776. Then: “The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink…” Just 11 months earlier, he had published Common Sense, the most influential writing in the Revolutionary era, the one thing that more than any other speech or writing convinced Americans to break from Britain and create their own free government. What did he say? How did he say it? Why was Common Sense the best selling title in the whole American Founding era, and why does it remain even today one of the all-time best selling books in American history? (As of 2006, it was still number 1 on this list.) Most importantly, what principles does it teach that are still important to our world in 2020?
  • VII-8: Barbara Oakley, A Mind for Numbers
    This book will change your life, if you let it. The subtitle says it all: “How to Excel at Math and Science (Even if You Flunked Algebra)”. It really works. Whether you already love math and thrive at it, or the opposite (or anywhere in between), this book is a great read for anyone who thinks math matters–even a little. The key to mastering math and science, Oakley argues, is to turn on the creative side of the brain and get it deeply involved in what is too often taught as a strictly logical/rote/left-brain subject. Getting your creativity involved makes all the difference, she teaches. Then she shows us how to do it. A great read.
  • VII-9: Ayn Rand, Anthem
    Conveyor belt or individualized? Force or freedom? Dominated by institutionalism or allowed to innovate, initiate, and be original? Rote or creative? What kind of world do you want to live in? And to pass on to your children, and grandchildren? Most importantly, what are you doing about it? This short and thought-provoking novel tackles the great questions of society–how do we want to live: controlled and managed by government, or free to pursue happiness? And since most thinking people choose freedom, how can we attain it, and what is the price?
  • VII-10: Tolstoy, War & Peace
    One of the greatest classics ever written, this 1869 Russian novel asks what actually brings happiness and fulfillment in life. Follow the main characters in their experiences, as Pierre, Andrei, Natasha and others journey the largest continent on earth trying to find out their purpose in life and what will help them find genuine happiness, love, and meaning. In the process, the reader learns to ask the same questions, and learn from the lives and choices portrayed in the book as well as from all other stories and histories in the human adventure. Find an answer to the great question, once and for all: Does happiness come from what happens to us, around us, whether in war or peace (or anything else that comes along), or does it come from some other source? A long, deep read–and so worth it.
  • VII-11: Frederic Bastiat, That Which is Seen and That Which is Not Seen [click to READ ONLINE or DOWNLOAD] This is one of the most important books ever written on freedom, and it is incredibly applicable and relevant to our modern world today. This very short book (appr. 30 pages) is easy to read but nevertheless very deep and hugely impactful to all who read it. A great classic on how to be free!
  • VII-12: Lewis Caroll, Alice in Wonderland
    This delightful classic is frequently considered a children’s book, but it is much deeper than first meets the eye. Caroll wrote Alice as a parody of the way upper class societies tend to look down on the middle and lower classes, and how they use tricks and conventions of language to keep themselves ruling and the other people not ruling. The entire story is an exposé of ways elites (in media, academia, society, money, politics, etc.) try to dominate the regular people, and how the people of a nation can understand this and overcome such “Lady Catherine DeBergh” arrogance and “Big Brother” manipulations. Set in a fairy-tale world full of delightful characters and interesting events, the lessons keep coming page after page–for readers who know what they’re looking for. Alice in Wonderland is a manual for cracking the elite code of machinations by those in power, knowing what is really happening in the world by learning the language of elitism and domination, and doing it without joining or getting caught up in its web of flaws. Full of characters that have become part of the modern lexicon, even for people who have never read or heard of the book, it shares a vitally important message. Learn the code. Read the book. Pass it on. And smile :), it’s a really fun read.

Year VIII Schedule:

Year IX Schedule

  • IX-1: Louisa May Alcott, Jo’s Boys
    • (Mentor Note: A fantastic sequel to Little Women and Little Men, Jo’s Boys takes place in a First Turning New Founding era rather than a Fourth Turning Crisis era like Little Women. Fabulous lessons for today’s rising generation, and their parents!)
  • IX-2: Oliver DeMille, The Socialism Myth
  • IX-3: John Steinbeck, The Grapes of Wrath
  • IX-4: William Shakespeare, A Merchant of Venice
  • IX-5: Brady & Woodward, Financial Fitness
    • (Mentor Note: This modern classic teaches 47 of the most important principles you’ll ever pass on to your children–or learn and apply yourself. A must read, especially in our current world!)
  • IX-6: Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote
  • IX-7: Louis L’Amour, Jubal Sackett
  • IX-8: William Goldman, The Princess Bride
    • (Mentor Note: Please read the full edition of the book because it contains numerous very important sections that are not included in the movie or the abridged versions–in fact, these are many of the most important and classic sections of the book, with the highest rate of epiphanies and wisdom.)
  • IX-9: Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America, vol. 2
    • (Mentor Note: “Volume 1 covers government in America, while Volume 2 covers the culture of family, society, towns vs. cities, rich vs. poor, differing religions, etc. of Founding America–making Volume 2 the Foundation of Freedom and Volume 1 the Government of Freedom. As a mentor I always recommend reading Volume 2 of Democracy in America first, which lays the foundation for truly understanding freedom and strong family-oriented culture, in order to more deeply understand Volume 1 later.” —Oliver DeMille)
  • IX-10: Laura Ingalls Wilder, Little Town on the Prairie
    • (Mentor Note: “Where Democracy in America *tells* what a township looks and behaves like, Little Town on the Prairie fleshes out significant details and *shows* how it’s done.” —Rachel DeMille)
  • IX-11: Richard Feynman, The Character of Physical Law
    • (Mentor Note: Very effective and accessible. This fun book is one of the greatest books on Science and Math ever written, because of its focus on what every teacher of math and science must understand in order to teach these topics effectively and with passion. Great for every parent for the same reason. Short and excellent!)
  • IX-12: Eliza DeMille Robinson, Counter-Intelligence

Year X Schedule

Year XI Schedule

IMPORTANT: It should be noted that many of these titles were not originally written in English, so most of us will be reading a translation from the original. In most cases, we don’t specify a particular translation, as it is enriching to have various readers giving commentary and discussion from the experience of multiple translations. Plato is almost an exception, in that there is a version that has superlative footnotes – so we link to that. If you already own a different edition, don’t feel the need to order the one we link to unless you just want to for your own enrichment.

  • January: Creativity, Inc

    In turbulent times such as these with challenges on every front, it’s hard to overstate the importance of being resilient, innovative and having the ability to unleash the genius in others. Creativity, Inc. is a compelling guide for leaders who want to build an innovative, resilient, and productive culture. It’s a fantastic read for those who want to understand the secret behind Pixar’s successful and consistent innovation. This book provides an inside look into the company’s creative process, emphasizing the importance of a culture that encourages and nurtures creativity.

  • February: Selections from Plutarch’s Lives

    Plutarch’s Lives offers a fascinating exploration of some of the most influential figures from ancient history. By comparing the lives of significant Greeks and Romans, the reader is invited on a journey through time, gaining insights into their character, achievements, and impact on today’s world. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into these timeless stories that continue to shape our understanding of leadership, integrity, and human nature.

    We will approach a couple of these individually, and several of them as counterpoint/comparison studies. Here are the names of the one’s we’ll cover:

    • Caesar
    • Alexander
    • Lycurgus compared with Numa Pompilius
    • Lysander compared with Sulla
    • Demosthenes compared with Cicero
  • March: Last of the Breed

    Last of the Breed is a captivating tale of survival and courage. The novel takes readers on a thrilling journey as the protagonist, a Native American U.S. Air Force pilot, navigates the harsh Siberian wilderness. Be inspired by this vivid exploration of resilience, cultural heritage, and the human will to survive against all odds.

  • April: Brothers Karamazov

    The Brothers Karamazov is a profound exploration of faith, morality, and the complex dynamics of family ties. Dostoevsky’s last and arguably greatest novel delves into the deepest corners of the human soul, revealing universal truths about humanity. This world renowned classic inspires and challenges readers with its timeless themes.

  • May: The Book Thief

    The Book Thief is a stirring tale of resilience set in World War II Germany. This compelling novel explores the transformative power of words through the eyes of a young girl named Liesel, who finds solace in books amidst the terror of the Nazi regime. We’ll discover that you can’t judge people on a surface level; humanity, the spirit of goodness, and one’s true colors burn better and brighter than we first realize!

  • June: The Count of Monte Cristo

    The Count of Monte Cristo is an enthralling tale of revenge and redemption. It takes readers on a thrilling journey navigating a world of betrayal and intrigue. This classic novel remains a timeless testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of forgiveness.

  • July: The Final Summit

    The Final Summit is an inspiring tale of courage and determination. It takes readers on an extraordinary journey as the protagonist must solve a riddle with the help of historical figures in order to save humanity. Don’t miss this riveting exploration of leadership, wisdom, and the power of purpose.

  • August: Tao Te Ching

    Tao Te Ching is a timeless classic that offers profound insights into philosophy, leadership, and life. This ancient text provides a guide to living a life of balance, integrity, and wisdom. Explore the wells of wisdom of ancient thought and its applications in our complex modern world.

  • September: The Republic

    The Republic by Plato is a cornerstone of Western philosophy, exploring essential questions about justice, government, and human nature. Its dialogues provide profound insights into the ideal city-state and the nature of reality itself. Don’t let it fool you, there is more than meets the eye, come peel its layers back with us!

  • October: Frankenstein

    Frankenstein is a captivating exploration of human nature, scientific ambition, and the consequences of unchecked power. This classic will take you on a thrilling journey with Victor Frankenstein, a man who dared to play God and faced the consequences.

  • November: Atlas Shrugged

    Atlas Shrugged is an exploration of individualism, capitalism, and the power of human reason. This classic novel challenges readers to consider the role of government in society and the consequences of placing collective needs over individual ambition. Don’t miss this thought-provoking journey into a dystopian world where the most productive citizens refuse to be exploited.

  • December: The Wizard of Oz

    The Wizard of Oz is a classic tale of adventure, courage, and self-discovery. Journey with Dorothy and her unforgettable companions as they navigate the magical Land of Oz, facing challenges that reveal their true strengths. This grand family adventure continues to captivate readers with its vivid characters and heartwarming message.

Going Forward

We will periodically update the reading schedule so that you’re kept informed of the coming books that are not yet listed.

We’re delighted to have you join us for Mentoring in the Classics. Please join the conversation on our MIC Discussion Group! [click here to join >>]

Warmly,

Rachel DeMille, TJEd.org
“An Education to Match Your Mission”