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.

Year XII Schedule:

  • XII-1: Durant, The Lessons of History
    The book is a short and impactful read, written by the authors of the 13,549 page History of Civilization, summarizing what they feel are history’s most important lessons.

    The Lessons of History is a profound distillation of Will and Ariel Durant’s lifetime studying and writing about history. This concise volume offers a unique opportunity to explore the patterns and themes that emerge across civilizations. The Durants examine how history repeats itself through economics, social structures, and human nature, making it particularly relevant for those seeking to understand our present world through the lens of the past. This accessible work serves as an excellent entry point for discussing how historical insights can inform our understanding of contemporary challenges.

  • XII-2: Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby
    Gatsby is a renowned classic commonly read in high school. We’ll tackle why it actually matters — with a TJEd twist.

    F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic, The Great Gatsby, is a compelling exploration of the American Dream during the opulent Jazz Age of the 1920s. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, we witness the story of the mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby and his obsessive love for the beautiful Daisy Buchanan. This novel masterfully weaves themes of wealth, love, decadence, and social mobility, while offering profound commentary on the hollow nature of materialism and the corruption of the American Dream. For parents, this is not a youth book, however, it provides rich opportunities to discuss timeless themes of morality, the dangers of excess, and the sometimes painful gap between our dreams and reality. Its accessible prose and vivid portrayal of human nature make it an excellent choice for both literary analysis and meaningful discussions about values and aspirations.

  • XII-3: Machiavelli, The Prince
    Written as an instruction guide for new monarchs, this book gives powerful insight into age old principles of government, freedom, and despotism.

    Niccolò Machiavelli’s The Prince is a groundbreaking work of political philosophy written in the 16th century. This influential treatise offers a pragmatic, and often controversial, examination of political power, leadership, and human nature. While its reputation for advocating ruthless tactics has made it notorious, the book provides invaluable insights into the realities of leadership and governance. For parents exploring the classics, this work presents excellent opportunities to discuss moral philosophy, the nature of power, and the complex relationship between ethics and leadership. Its enduring relevance to modern politics and organizational leadership makes it a compelling choice for thoughtful discussion about how societies function and the responsibilities of those in positions of authority.

  • XII-4: Dumas, The Three Musketeers
    Beloved as one of the most entertaining classics of all time, this story has powerful themes of honor, ambition, and determination in the line of mission.

    Alexandre Dumas’ The Three Musketeers is a timeless adventure novel that has captivated readers since its publication in 1844. Set in 17th-century France, it follows the journey of young d’Artagnan as he leaves home to join the prestigious Musketeers of the Guard. Along the way, he forms unbreakable friendships with three remarkable musketeers: Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. The novel masterfully weaves themes of loyalty, honor, friendship, and courage against a backdrop of political intrigue and romance. This work offers rich discussions about the value of friendship, the nature of honor, and the balance between duty and personal desires. Its engaging narrative style and memorable characters make it an excellent exploration of human relationships and moral character.

  • XII-5: Schilling, Quirky
    This contemporary work outlines the traits and characteristics of great innovators and how to nurture breakthrough energy in our lives.

    Melissa A. Schilling’s Quirky is a fascinating exploration of breakthrough innovators and what makes them unique. Through detailed case studies of eight modern innovators including Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, Marie Curie, and Albert Einstein, Schilling examines the common traits and circumstances that contributed to their extraordinary achievements. For parents exploring influential works, this book offers valuable insights into the nature of innovation, creativity, and personal drive. It prompts meaningful discussions about education, personal development, and the role of “quirkiness” in success. The book challenges conventional wisdom about genius and innovation, making it particularly relevant for parents interested in nurturing creativity and independent thinking in themselves and their children. Its accessible writing style combined with rigorous research makes it an excellent springboard for discussions about personal growth, education, and the various paths to achievement.

  • XII-6: Virgil, The Georgics
    In this powerful epic poem from the ancient Greeks, Virgil introduces to the world the concept that would become one of the five ideals that made Founding-era America a golden age of freedom.

    Virgil’s The Georgics is a masterful poetic work written between 36 and 29 BC that elevates the subject of agriculture to an art form. While ostensibly a practical guide to farming and rural life, the poem is actually a profound meditation on humanity’s relationship with nature, work, and the divine. For parents exploring the classics, this work offers unique insights into the dignity of labor, the cycles of nature, and humanity’s role as stewards of the earth. The poem’s four books cover diverse topics including crop cultivation, viticulture, animal husbandry, and beekeeping, but its deeper themes address the value of persistent work, the struggle against adversity, and the importance of maintaining harmony with the natural world. Despite its ancient origins, The Georgics remains remarkably relevant to modern discussions about sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the importance of understanding our connection to the land.

  • XII-7: Tolkien, Return of the King
    One of the best classics to learn about sacrifice, mission, community and world-changing leadership.

    J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Return of the King is the magnificent conclusion to The Lord of the Rings trilogy, representing the culmination of one of literature’s greatest epic fantasies. As the final installment, it brings together themes of courage, sacrifice, friendship, Mission, and the triumph of good over evil. The novel follows multiple storylines as they converge in the ultimate battle for Middle-earth. This work offers rich discussions about leadership, moral courage, and the importance of perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds. The book’s exploration of power, corruption, and redemption provides valuable insights into human nature, while its depiction of ordinary individuals rising to extraordinary challenges resonates with readers of all ages. It is a relevant classic of the trends and cycles of history. While most stories focus on the buildup of the crisis and its resolution, few portray the decompression time and work that comes afterwards like Tolkien does in this novel.

  • XII-8: Shetty, Think Like a Monk
    One of the most popular influencers on the planet shares practical steps anyone can take every day to live a less anxious, more meaningful life.

    Jay Shetty’s Think Like a Monk draws from his experience living as a monk in India to provide practical wisdom for modern life. This bestseller bridges ancient monastic traditions with contemporary challenges, offering insights into reducing stress, improving relationships, and finding purpose. For parents exploring personal growth literature, this book provides valuable perspectives on mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and intentional living. While not a traditional classic, it serves as an accessible gateway to timeless wisdom, combining Eastern philosophical principles with practical Western applications for today’s fast-paced world. The book’s emphasis on values, mental clarity, and purposeful living makes it particularly relevant for parents seeking to cultivate balance and meaning in their family.

  • XII-9: Aristotle, Nichomachean Ethics
    Arguably Aristotle’s best work, and an incredible mentor for living a truly happy, truly great life.

    Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics stands as one of the most influential works in moral philosophy, offering a profound exploration of what constitutes a good life. Written in the 4th century BC, this work examines the nature of happiness, virtue, and moral character through a practical and accessible lens. For parents exploring classical literature, this text provides invaluable insights into character development, decision-making, and the cultivation of virtuous habits. While its ancient origins might seem distant, Aristotle’s discussions of friendship, justice, and the balance between excess and deficiency remain remarkably relevant to modern family life and personal development. The book’s emphasis on practical wisdom and the development of good character makes it particularly valuable for parents interested in understanding and teaching moral development. Its exploration of happiness as activity in accordance with virtue offers a refreshing counterpoint to modern definitions of success and fulfillment.

  • XII-10: Collins, Mockingjay
    This book is a great way to learn to read the fine print, recognize wolves in sheep’s clothing, and find what yours to do. This book takes us from simplicity, through a world of complexity, and then to the simplicity on the other side, in a moving and insightful way.

    Suzanne Collins’ Mockingjay is the powerful conclusion to The Hunger Games trilogy, bringing the story of Katniss Everdeen to its climactic end—remember, it’s written as a first person narrative. This novel delves deeper than its predecessors into the consequences of war, propaganda, and political manipulation. Its mature themes of trauma, leadership, and moral compromise make it particularly relevant for adult discussion. For parents exploring contemporary classics, this book offers rich opportunities to discuss the impact of media manipulation, the true cost of revolution, and the complex nature of heroism. Its exploration of how war affects both individuals and society, along with themes of healing and reconciliation, makes it a compelling choice for examining modern political dynamics and the psychological impact of conflict. The book’s accessibility combined with its depth makes it an excellent bridge between contemporary and classical discussions of power, sacrifice, and social change.

  • XII-11: Rothbard, What Has the Government Done with Our Money
    Dive into the history of money as told by a great economist who also understands principles of freedom.

    Murray Rothbard’s What Has Government Done to Our Money? is a seminal work that offers a clear and compelling examination of the history and nature of money. Written in 1963, this accessible treatise explains how money naturally emerges in free markets and how government intervention affects monetary systems. For parents exploring economic classics, this book provides invaluable insights into the fundamental concepts of inflation, monetary policy, and financial freedom. While some economic texts can be dense and technical, Rothbard’s writing style makes complex monetary concepts understandable for the general reader. The book’s exploration of historical examples and clear explanations of monetary principles makes it accessible and understandable. Its enduring relevance to current economic discussions makes it an excellent choice for thoughtful discussion about the role of government in monetary affairs.

  • XII-12: Barrie, Peter Pan
    Great for a family read aloud, and a powerful classic about adventure, imagination and finding your mission.

    J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan is far more than just a children’s tale about a boy who won’t grow up. This beloved classic, first published as a novel in 1911, offers profound insights into childhood, parenthood, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. Through the magical adventures of Peter Pan, Wendy, and the Lost Boys in Neverland, we’ll explore themes of imagination, responsibility, and the complex relationship between parents and children. For parents, this work provides great opportunities to discuss the value of childhood wonder while acknowledging the importance of maturity and growth. The book’s nuanced portrayal of mother-child relationships offers rich material for discussing parental roles and family dynamics. Its exploration of time, aging, and the tension between freedom and responsibility makes it particularly poignant for adult readers who can appreciate both the allure of eternal childhood and the necessity of growth.

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”