History Odyssey
Pandia Press · Grades 1-12
Independent readers in grades 6-10 with strong writing stamina who enjoy primary-source literature; families coming out of Story of the World wanting to step up rigor; secular/religiously neutral families wanting classical depth without Christian content
$35-52/guide + books
Overview
History Odyssey is Pandia Press's secular history program, structured as a three-level (Level 1, 2, 3) progression through four periods: Ancients, Middle Ages, Early Modern, Modern. Each level deepens the work. Level 1 is narrative and oral; Level 2 adds primary sources and research; Level 3 expects high-school-grade analysis. Designed to pair with Real Science Odyssey for a complete secular humanities-and-sciences track. Less famous than Story of the World but more rigorous at the upper levels: the natural choice for secular classical families.
Strengths
- •Literature selections excellent. Consistently called a curriculum highlight
- •writing skill development organic and progressive
- •secular and historically honest (no whitewashing)
- •'try before you buy' (3 full weeks free) earns consistent goodwill
- •works across wider age range than marketed
Limitations
- •Kingfisher History Encyclopedia spine is OUT OF PRINT. Buyers must locate used copies adding cost/friction before starting
- •writing-heavy enough to break composition-resistant kids
- •Level 1 (grades 1-6) significantly lighter and less praised than Level 2
- •diversity gaps flagged in earlier editions
- •American History edition pulled for revision
Best fit for
Independent readers in grades 6-10 with strong writing stamina who enjoy primary-source literature; families coming out of Story of the World wanting to step up rigor; secular/religiously neutral families wanting classical depth without Christian content
The honest read
Secular homeschool communities consistently name it one of the best secular history options. Particularly for logic/rhetoric-stage students who can handle independent reading and writing. The enthusiasm is real but comes with a significant practical caveat: the Kingfisher History Encyclopedia spine is out of print, causing real friction for new buyers.
Get History Odyssey
Independent readers in grades 6-10 with strong writing stamina who enjoy primary-source literature; families coming out of Story of the World wanting to step up rigor; secular/religiously neutral families wanting classical depth without Christian content
SHOPRelated in History
History Odyssey
$35-52/guide + books