Books are the cornerstone to every homeschool.  You can pick or choose any curriculum you want but without some great books, you'll be lost.  Check out some of the recommendations we make for your family homeschool library.  It's not extensive but it's a good start.

Make sure you become very best friends with your local librarians.  Bring them flowers, take them to lunch and visit them often with a smile on your face.  A relaxed homeschooler loves the library and uses the services to the hilt - and librarians will love you because you'll see their value and use their skills!

From the moment your children are conceived you should start reading to them as part of your homeschool routine.  They'll learn to love learning and books and become readers themselves if you read TO them regularly.  But don't just read anything - read books worth reading.  Books that live. Books that tell of history.  Books that are rich with language and story.