"Lessons at Blackberry Inn" Book Review

Karen Andreola's Lessons at Blackberry Inn is the second volume of her series about Carol and Michael and their children. Pocketful of Pinecones is the first and includes many examples of how to do nature study with children. Michael's Gentle Wife is the third volume, continuing their lives at Blackberry Inn. It's not required to read them in order. I started with Michael's Gentle Wife and just had to read the first two volumes, enjoying the early chapters of their story. 

Lessons at Blackberry Inn is an encouraging read because it illustrates the value of home making as well as home teaching. It also includes the lesson Carol learns about over-committing to things outside the home. I could have used this wisdom when I was a young homeschooling mother. Set in the 1930s, the reader is transported back to a simpler time. While living in today's complex and fast-paced world, this book provides a break from contemporary stresses and pressures. It's a breath of fresh air. This middle volume of Carol and Michael's life together definitely provides the "comfort read" that Andreola aims for. Highly recommended!

Fun fact: the cover of the first edition (below) was designed and cross stitched by none other than the author herself.