"A Thomas Jefferson Education Home Companion" by Oliver DeMille is a comprehensive guide that delves into the principles and methods of a classical education. Through practical insights and strategies, DeMille empowers readers to adopt a Jeffersonian approach to education in their homes and communities. The book emphasizes the importance of fostering independent thinking, creativity, and character development in children.
At the beginning of the book, DeMille introduces the key principles of Thomas Jefferson Education (TJEd), such as the leadership education model, the phases of learning, and the significance of studying classics. He then provides practical advice on implementing TJEd, including creating an inspiring learning environment, selecting exceptional books, and engaging in meaningful conversations with children to encourage critical thinking skills.
What sets this book apart is its focus on character development and leadership education. DeMille highlights the value of nurturing virtues and character traits in children, as well as teaching them to take ownership of their education. He advocates for parents and educators to become mentors and assist young people in discovering and developing their unique talents and passions.
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Throughout the book, DeMille supports his teachings with examples, anecdotes, and practical tips. He also includes suggested reading lists and additional resources for further exploration. His writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex educational principles easy to comprehend and implement.
In conclusion, "A Thomas Jefferson Education Home Companion" is an inspiring and thought-provoking guide for parents, educators, and anyone interested in providing a well-rounded education for children. DeMille's emphasis on character development and leadership education adds depth to the book, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to go beyond traditional academics and nurture individuals with strong character and leadership qualities.
What are readers saying?
The book "A Thomas Jefferson Education Home Companion" authored by Oliver DeMille has received a range of reviews from readers. In general, the book has been regarded as an informative guide for those interested in adopting the principles of the Thomas Jefferson Education (TJEd) method for homeschooling. However, some reviewers felt that the book lacked depth and practical examples.
Many readers appreciated the detailed explanation provided in the book about the TJEd method. This approach emphasizes classical education, leadership, and character development. Readers found the book to be inspiring and motivating, as it encourages parents to actively engage in their children's education and embrace the concept of lifelong learning. The author's passion for the subject matter was evident and resonated with readers.
On the other hand, a few reviewers expressed the opinion that the book could have benefited from more practical advice and real-life examples. Some readers desired more concrete guidance on implementing the TJEd method in their own homeschooling journeys. Additionally, a small number of reviewers found the writing style to be repetitive and lacking clarity, which made it somewhat difficult to follow.
Several readers praised the book for its valuable insights and emphasis on fostering critical thinking skills and creative problem-solving abilities in children. These ideas were seen as thought-provoking and capable of having a profound impact on their children's education.
However, a few reviewers felt that the book was overly idealistic and unrealistic. They argued that not all families possess the necessary resources or flexibility to fully embrace the TJEd method as described in the book. This skepticism led to doubts regarding its applicability in various households.
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