BookShark is a secular, literature-based homeschool curriculum built around real books rather than conventional textbooks.

Its core philosophy is straightforward: children often understand and remember history, geography, science, and culture more effectively when those subjects are taught through engaging stories, biographies, nonfiction books, maps, timelines, and family discussion.

As a homeschooling dad, I find that approach appealing.

I would rather have my child remember the people, decisions, struggles, and ideas behind history than memorize a list of dates long enough to pass a test. I also like curricula that create a family reading culture instead of making every subject feel like another workbook to complete.

BookShark offers that kind of education.

Its packages include curated collections of novels, historical fiction, biographies, science books, readers, and reference materials, all coordinated through detailed Instructor’s Guides. The company currently offers programs from pre-kindergarten through high school, including complete All-Subject Packages and narrower Reading with History, language arts, math, and science packages.

However, BookShark is expensive, reading-intensive, and heavily dependent on parental participation.

A complete package can cost around $900 to more than $1,000 for many levels. Families must also be willing to spend significant time reading aloud, discussing books, supervising assignments, and keeping several dozen resources organized.

My overall conclusion is:

BookShark is one of the strongest secular homeschool curricula for families that love books, history, and meaningful discussion. It offers excellent planning support and rich academic content, but it may be too expensive, parent-intensive, or reading-heavy for families seeking short independent lessons.

BookShark Review: Quick Verdict

BookShark is especially suitable for:

• Secular homeschool families
• Children who love stories and books
• Parents who enjoy reading aloud
• Families wanting detailed lesson plans
• Students interested in history and cultures
• Parents teaching children close in age
• Strong readers
• Families wanting a four-day school week
• Parents who prefer discussion over memorization

It may be less suitable for:

• Families on a limited curriculum budget
• Children who strongly dislike reading
• Parents wanting independent elementary work
• Students who prefer workbooks
• Families wanting a Christian worldview
• Parents seeking an accredited academy
• Households with limited storage space
• Children who need extensive drills and formal testing

What Is BookShark?

BookShark is a complete secular homeschool curriculum organized primarily around literature.

Rather than asking children to learn history from a single textbook, the curriculum combines:

• Historical fiction
• Biographies
• Illustrated nonfiction
• Read-aloud books
• Student readers
• Maps
• Timelines
• Discussion questions
• Vocabulary
• Writing assignments
• Science books and experiments

The company’s All-Subject Packages combine Reading with History, language arts, science, and math into one grade-level purchase. Parents can also purchase those subjects separately.

BookShark uses levels rather than assigning every package to one rigid grade.

The programs are designed around age ranges, which can make it easier to:

• Place children by ability
• Combine siblings
• Select a different reading level
• Use one history program with several children
• Separate math from the child’s history level

Independent curriculum reviewer Cathy Duffy notes that BookShark’s level system makes it easier to place students appropriately and combine children who are within roughly three years of one another for some subjects.

Is BookShark the Secular Version of Sonlight?

BookShark and Sonlight share a very similar literature-based structure.

Both programs use:

• Large collections of real books
• Instructor’s Guides
• History spines
• Read-alouds
• Student readers
• Mapping
• Timelines
• Vocabulary
• Discussion questions

The central difference is worldview.

Sonlight is explicitly Christian and includes Bible study, missionary biographies, and Christian worldview notes.

BookShark presents itself as secular and faith-neutral. The company says it neither promotes nor opposes religious belief, making it suitable for both religious and nonreligious families that want to add their own worldview separately.

That distinction matters.

BookShark does not include a Bible course or Christian interpretation of history and science. Religious families can add those subjects independently.

Some critics argue that BookShark’s historical roots in Sonlight and some of its book choices may still reflect cultural or religious assumptions. A 2025 independent critique, for example, questioned whether every aspect of the curriculum would satisfy families seeking the strictest definition of secular and inclusive content.

My view is that parents should examine the exact reading list rather than relying entirely on labels.

“Secular” tells us the program does not teach religious doctrine. It does not guarantee that every book will reflect every family’s political, cultural, or philosophical preferences.

My Impression as a Homeschooling Dad

The most attractive feature of BookShark is the quality of the educational atmosphere it can create.

A child might begin the day by listening to a historical story, locating the setting on a map, discussing the decisions made by a character, adding an event to a timeline, and then completing a short writing assignment related to the reading.

That feels more coherent than moving between five disconnected textbooks.

It can also make the family’s conversations richer.

Children may begin asking questions about:

• Why wars begin
• How different cultures live
• Why people migrate
• How governments gain power
• What makes someone courageous
• How inventions affect society
• Why historical accounts disagree

Those questions are the beginning of real education.

BookShark’s greatest weakness is that it can create pressure to finish every book and every scheduled page.

When a family falls behind in a workbook curriculum, a few unfinished exercises accumulate.

When a BookShark family falls behind, it may feel as though an entire shelf of books is waiting.

The schedule should remain a guide.

A parent can shorten a read-aloud, skip an optional book, replace a title, or extend a 36-week program over a longer period. The goal is understanding and enjoyment, not racing through the box.

How Does BookShark Work?

Reading with History

Reading with History is BookShark’s central program.

Each package typically includes:

• A history Instructor’s Guide
• A central history spine
• Historical fiction
• Biographies
• Read-aloud books
• Student readers
• Maps
• Timeline activities
• Vocabulary
• Discussion prompts
• Notes about sensitive content

BookShark says its history packages usually contain roughly 35 to 50 real books rather than conventional history textbooks. The Instructor’s Guide coordinates the reading and adds discussion questions, vocabulary, mapping topics, and timeline suggestions.

The history spine provides chronological structure.

The additional books help children experience the time period through the lives of individuals.

This balance is important because historical fiction alone can blur fact and imagination, while a textbook alone can feel emotionally distant.

The Four-Day Schedule

BookShark is designed primarily around a four-day school week.

The fifth weekday can be used for:

• Field trips
• Co-op classes
• Sports
• Music lessons
• Appointments
• Catch-up work
• Independent interests

The Instructor’s Guide sample explains that the four-day schedule is designed to leave one weekday open for extracurricular activities and family flexibility.

As a dad, I consider this one of BookShark’s best practical features.

Homeschool families rarely need five identical academic days. A flexible fifth day can prevent ordinary life from making the entire schedule feel behind.

Instructor’s Guides

The Instructor’s Guide is the operational center of BookShark.

It generally includes:

• A 36-week schedule
• Daily page assignments
• Discussion questions
• Vocabulary
• Teaching notes
• Mapping instructions
• Timeline suggestions
• Writing assignments
• Answer keys
• Warnings about difficult content
• Recordkeeping space

The guide reduces planning time substantially.

Parents do not need to determine when to read every book or how the subjects fit together.

However, low planning does not mean low involvement.

The parent still needs to:

• Read aloud
• Lead discussions
• Listen to student reading
• Check assignments
• Help with mapping
• Evaluate writing
• Prepare science activities
• Track progress

BookShark is open and go, but it is not hands-off.

BookShark History Review

History is BookShark’s strongest subject.

The curriculum teaches history through a combination of narrative nonfiction, biographies, reference texts, and fiction set during the period being studied.

History Strengths

It Makes Historical Events Memorable

Children often remember an event better when they understand how it affected a family, community, or individual.

A story can give emotional and human context to facts.

It Includes Global History

BookShark offers programs covering American history, world history, cultures, geography, and modern global topics rather than focusing exclusively on the United States.

Mapping and Timelines Build Context

Students learn where events occurred and how different civilizations and historical periods overlap.

Discussion Encourages Critical Thinking

The Instructor’s Guide helps parents move beyond simple comprehension by discussing choices, motives, consequences, and competing perspectives.

History Weaknesses

The Reading Load Can Be Heavy

A single year may involve dozens of books.

Slow readers and reluctant readers may struggle.

Fiction Must Be Distinguished From Fact

Parents should help children identify which details are historically documented and which were created by the author.

Some Perspectives May Need Supplementation

No curated book list can represent every culture, political perspective, or historical interpretation fully.

Parents may want to add:

• Primary sources
• Books by authors from the cultures studied
• Alternative historical interpretations
• Documentaries
• Museum resources

BookShark works best as a rich framework rather than an unquestionable final authority.

BookShark Language Arts Review

BookShark Language Arts is closely coordinated with the books children read.

Depending on the level, it includes:

• Phonics
• Spelling
• Copywork
• Dictation
• Grammar
• Writing
• Vocabulary
• Literary analysis
• Creative composition
• Research

For younger students, reading level can be selected separately from the family’s history program. BookShark explains that schedules and notes for early readers are designed to allow parents to customize the program when a child’s reading level differs from the history level.

Language Arts Strengths

Writing Is Connected to Meaningful Content

Students write about books, historical topics, and ideas they are already studying.

Literature Is Built Into the Program

Children read full-length books instead of relying only on short anthology passages.

Different Reading Levels Can Be Accommodated

A child can join the family history study without being forced into readers that are too difficult or too easy.

Discussion Supports Comprehension

Parents receive questions and teaching notes rather than simply assigning chapters.

Language Arts Weaknesses

Spelling May Need Additional Support

Some children need a more systematic phonics or spelling curriculum.

Grammar May Feel Less Structured

Families wanting formal grammar drills or sentence diagramming may prefer a separate program.

Writing Requires Parent Evaluation

Creative and analytical responses cannot be graded entirely through answer keys.

The Number of Books Can Overwhelm Struggling Readers

Audiobooks, shared reading, or a reduced reading schedule may be necessary.

BookShark Language Arts works best for children who enjoy books and learn naturally through reading.

It may need supplementation for students with dyslexia, severe spelling difficulties, or a need for explicit grammar instruction.

BookShark Science Review

BookShark Science combines books, experiments, worksheets, and an Instructor’s Guide.

The company describes the science curriculum as:

• Literature-based
• Fully planned
• Faith-neutral
• Organized around a four-day schedule

Its Levels A through F were designed with Next Generation Science Standards in mind.

Science packages may include:

• Science books
• An Instructor’s Guide
• Activity sheets
• Experiment instructions
• Supply kits
• Videos
• Answer keys

Science Strengths

It Uses Engaging Books

Children learn through illustrated nonfiction and topic-specific books rather than one dense textbook.

Supplies Are Often Included

BookShark science kits can reduce the need to search for unusual experiment materials.

Lessons Are Planned

Parents receive a schedule connecting readings and experiments.

It Is Secular and Standards-Aware

This makes it useful for families wanting mainstream science without religious doctrine.

Science Weaknesses

The Books May Feel Fragmented

Some students prefer one clear textbook that follows a predictable sequence.

Experiments Still Require Parent Support

A supply kit does not perform or clean up the experiment.

Older Students May Need More Formal Lab Documentation

High-school families should make sure laboratory work meets their state, college, or transcript requirements.

Science Packages Add Considerably to the Cost

Current package listings show many science programs costing around $280 to $300 or more before optional upgrades.

BookShark Math Review

BookShark does not use one proprietary mathematics program across all levels.

Instead, its All-Subject Packages allow families to select from established math providers.

This can be a major advantage.

Children often need different approaches:

• Spiral review
• Mastery-based instruction
• Manipulatives
• Conceptual math
• Traditional computation
• Video teaching

A family can choose a math program that fits the student rather than being forced to accept the publisher’s single sequence.

The drawback is that parents must research the available options and place the child correctly.

Math is also less integrated with the literature and history program than other BookShark subjects.

BookShark Pricing in 2026

BookShark is a premium physical-book curriculum.

The price reflects the number of books, Instructor’s Guides, student materials, science resources, and math products included.

Current examples include:

These prices reflected discounts from higher list prices on several package pages.

What Is Included in an All-Subject Package?

A complete package generally combines:

• Reading with History
• Language arts
• Readers
• Science
• Math
• Handwriting or related resources where applicable
• Instructor’s Guides
• Student worksheets
• Required books

Exact contents vary by level and customization.

Hidden Costs

Families should also budget for:

• Additional student worksheets
• Consumable workbooks for siblings
• Science replacements
• Art or writing supplies
• Printer ink
• Binders
• Timeline materials
• Shipping
• Extra literature
• Specialized tutoring
• Standardized testing
• International customs charges

Can BookShark Be Reused?

Many items can be reused with younger siblings:

• Novels
• Read-alouds
• History books
• Science books
• Reference materials
• Instructor’s Guides
• Maps
• Timeline resources

Families may need new:

• Consumable math books
• Activity sheets
• Handwriting books
• Science worksheets
• Student readers at a different level

The high upfront cost becomes easier to justify when one package serves several children over time.

Is BookShark Accredited?

No.

BookShark is a curriculum publisher, not an accredited school.

The company correctly explains that accreditation applies to educational institutions rather than curriculum materials.

Purchasing BookShark does not provide:

• Official school enrollment
• Institutional report cards
• Accredited credits
• School-issued transcripts
• A diploma
• Legal homeschool administration

Parents remain responsible for:

• Meeting state requirements
• Tracking attendance
• Grading work
• Maintaining portfolios
• Assigning high-school credits
• Preparing transcripts
• Issuing a homeschool diploma where permitted

BookShark states that its curriculum generally meets or exceeds many state standards and is approved by various charter schools and education programs, but that is not the same as institutional accreditation.

BookShark Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent literature selection
• Secular and faith-neutral
• Strong history and geography
• Detailed Instructor’s Guides
• Four-day weekly schedule
• Full-length books rather than dry textbooks
• Flexible reading placement
• Children close in age can study together
• Mapping and timeline activities
• Strong family discussion
• Complete package options
• Science kits reduce supply hunting
• Reusable books for siblings
• High-school options available

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy reading load
• Parent-intensive
• Numerous books to organize
• Falling behind can feel overwhelming
• Not accredited
• No built-in religious worldview
• Spelling and grammar may need supplementation
• Weak fit for workbook-oriented learners
• Limited automatic grading
• Science experiments require supervision
• International shipping can be costly
• Full packages require significant storage

BookShark vs. Sonlight

The teaching structure is highly similar.

The deciding factor is usually worldview.

Choose BookShark when you want literature-based education without integrated Christian doctrine.

Choose Sonlight when you want Bible study, missionary biographies, and Christian interpretation built into the program.

BookShark vs. Blossom and Root

BookShark provides far more structure and a stronger history sequence.

Blossom and Root is more affordable, creative, and nature focused.

Is BookShark Academically Rigorous?

Yes, particularly in history, reading, literature, and discussion.

Students are expected to:

• Read full-length books
• Listen carefully
• Narrate and discuss
• Build vocabulary
• Complete maps and timelines
• Write regularly
• Compare cultures
• Understand historical context
• Analyze characters and ideas

However, rigor depends on how the family uses the program.

A child who passively listens without discussion, mapping, or writing may retain less than expected.

A student who reads independently, completes thoughtful assignments, and examines different perspectives can receive an academically strong education.

Some families may still need more:

• Formal grammar
• Systematic spelling
• Math-fact practice
• Test preparation
• Laboratory documentation
• Structured essay instruction

The number of books alone does not make a curriculum rigorous.

The student’s comprehension and work matter more.

Is BookShark Too Much Reading?

It can be.

A typical BookShark day may include:

• History spine
• Read-aloud
• Student reader
• Independent literature
• Science reading
• Language arts connected to books

This is excellent for children who love stories.

It can be difficult for:

• Dyslexic students
• Slow readers
• Highly active children
• Parents who dislike reading aloud
• Families teaching unrelated levels
• Children who need visual demonstrations
• Students who prefer concise instruction

Parents can use:

• Audiobooks
• Shared reading
• Oral narration
• Fewer optional books
• Shortened assignments
• A slower schedule

The program should be adapted to the child rather than forcing the child to serve the schedule.

Who Should Use BookShark?

BookShark is an excellent fit for:

• Secular homeschool families
• Children who love books
• Parents who enjoy reading aloud
• Students interested in history
• Families wanting prepared schedules
• Strong readers
• Children who learn through stories
• Parents teaching siblings close in age
• Families wanting a four-day week
• Students who enjoy conversation and discussion

Who Should Choose Another Curriculum?

Another program may be better for:

• Families on a tight budget
• Children who dislike reading
• Parents wanting independent elementary lessons
• Students needing intensive drill
• Families seeking Christian instruction
• Parents wanting accredited enrollment
• Children who prefer workbooks
• Families with limited shelf space
• Parents who do not have time for daily read-alouds

Final Verdict: Is BookShark Worth It?

BookShark is worth considering when a family genuinely wants literature to sit at the center of homeschooling.

Its value lies in more than the quantity of books in the package.

The curriculum gives parents:

• A coherent history sequence
• Strong read-aloud selections
• Detailed planning
• Meaningful discussion questions
• Maps and timelines
• Flexible reading placement
• Complete secular packages

As a homeschooling dad, I would consider BookShark most seriously for a child who is naturally curious, enjoys stories, and wants to understand history through people rather than isolated facts.

I would be more cautious with a reluctant reader or a family that already struggles to keep up with read-aloud time.

The cost is substantial, but the books can form a family library and be reused with younger siblings. The program also saves parents from spending months selecting and coordinating dozens of resources independently.

My final judgment is:

BookShark is one of the best secular literature-based homeschool curricula available. It offers exceptional books, strong history, and excellent planning support, but families should be realistic about the price, reading load, and daily parental involvement before purchasing a complete package.

BookShark Rating

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BookShark a Complete Curriculum?

Yes. BookShark offers All-Subject Packages combining Reading with History, language arts, science, and math. Families may also purchase individual subject packages.

Is BookShark Secular?

Yes. BookShark describes itself as secular and faith-neutral. It does not promote or oppose religious belief.

Is BookShark Accredited?

No. BookShark is a curriculum publisher rather than a school. Parents remain responsible for records, grades, transcripts, and legal homeschool compliance.

How Much Does BookShark Cost?

Complete packages generally cost several hundred dollars to more than $1,000. In July 2026, Level B’s All-Subject Package was listed at $904.22, while Level I’s package was $1,007.84.

Does BookShark Use a Four-Day Week?

Yes. Its core schedule is generally designed around four academic days per week, leaving one day open for activities, co-ops, or appointments.

Can BookShark Be Used With Multiple Children?

Yes. Siblings within a suitable age range can share history, read-alouds, geography, timelines, and some science while using separate math and reading levels.

Is BookShark Good for Dyslexia?

The read-aloud format can help dyslexic students access advanced history and literature, but independent reading and spelling may require audiobooks, assistive technology, or a specialized structured-literacy program.

Is BookShark Common Core Aligned?

BookShark does not market itself primarily as a Common Core curriculum. Its science materials for Levels A through F were developed with Next Generation Science Standards in mind. Families should compare specific course sequences with local requirements.

Does BookShark Include Bible Lessons?

No. BookShark is faith-neutral. Religious families need to add Bible, theology, or religious studies separately.

What Is the Difference Between BookShark and Sonlight?

BookShark is secular and faith-neutral, while Sonlight integrates Christian Bible study and worldview instruction. Their literature-based structure is otherwise similar.