The Story of the World Homeschool History Curriculum Review
The Story of the World is a four-volume world history series by Susan Wise Bauer, published by Well-Trained Mind Press. It tells history as a chronological story, from the earliest nomads to the end of the twentieth century. It is built for the elementary and middle school years.
How It Works
Each volume fills about one school year. Volume 1 covers ancient times, Volume 2 the Middle Ages, Volume 3 early modern times, and Volume 4 the modern age. The reading level rises with each book, from about grades 1-4 in Volume 1 to grades 4-8 in Volume 4.
The book is the spine. A companion activity book turns it into a full course, with review questions, narration prompts, map work, coloring pages, reading lists, and hands-on projects. Optional test books serve grades 4 and up, and audiobooks are available. In 2026 the publisher released a 25th Anniversary Expanded Edition of Volume 1, with new chapters on East Asia, new maps, and a split Instructor Guide and Student Workbook. These new pieces do not work with the older editions, so match your edition before you buy.
What Homeschoolers Say
Strengths. Families most often praise the storytelling. Chapters are short and lively, and children ask for more. It works well for teaching several ages at once, since younger children listen and color while older ones narrate, outline, or take tests. It is affordable, often found at the library, and flexible on busy weeks. Many parents like the audiobook for car rides or quiet time.
Cautions. It stops at middle school, so teens will need a different program. Coverage is selective, and Volume 4 can feel rushed. The activity book offers more projects than anyone can finish, so plan to pick and choose. Worldview is the biggest point of debate. The series is not written from a Christian viewpoint. It retells Bible stories alongside other cultures’ myths without judging them, and Volume 4 rarely mentions religion. Some Christian families prefer a program like The Mystery of History. A few parents also skip violent passages with young children.
Getting Started
Start with Volume 1 and its activity book or Instructor Guide. Read a chapter aloud, ask the review questions, and have your child retell the story. Add a map or project when time allows.
Where to Purchase
Buy directly from the publisher at Well-Trained Mind Press.
Sources
- Well-Trained Mind Press: The Story of the World (publisher), plus its 25th Anniversary Expanded Edition and Tests and Answer Key pages
- Cathy Duffy Reviews: The Story of the World: History for the Classical Child, Volumes 1-4
- HomeschoolPicks: Story of the World Review
- Treehouse Schoolhouse: The Story of the World History Curriculum Review
- 4onemore: Mystery of History or Story of the World
- Proverbial Homemaker: Why We’re Ditching Story of the World
- The Curriculum Choice: Story of the World History Volume 1: Ancient Times
Last reviewed: November 4, 2026