Cornerstone Academics
A Jar with a Crack, Volume 2
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The Cornerstone Story Collection — Elementary, Volume 2
Four historical novellas in one volume, grouped by reading level.
A girl climbs the hill each morning with a jar that has a crack in it. A boy who knows the river gauge by feel must weigh a rising current against a promise already made. A baker's nephew, careless with his measuring, must reckon with eight loaves and a path in the dark. And a girl's soap batch has gone wrong, her mother has not risen since the first frost, and the house still needs running.
Set in richly imagined historical villages inspired by nineteenth-century Northern Europe, each novella celebrates patience, responsibility, and quiet provision through engaging stories that families will enjoy reading again and again. These are quiet, thoughtful tales for young readers ready for substantial prose and characters who are trusted with real work.
This volume includes four complete novellas:
- A Jar with a Crack
- Before the First Frost
- The Last Loaf
- Long Winter
Written for ages 8-11, these historical stories are ideal for strong independent readers in grades 3-5 and equally rewarding as family read-alouds — perfect for classical homeschool families seeking rich, character-forming historical fiction.
Choose your format: Paperback (5.43 x 8.5 in, 234 pages, printed and shipped) or EPUB ebook (instant digital download).
What parents and teachers say.
From the teachers, friends, and parents who know Serena's work from the inside.
Amazing! I love writing and want my children to also develope appreciation for it as well, this curriculum will help cultivate that.
It is perfect for the homeschool family who wants excellent writing style without the stress and pressure. The Teacher's guide walks you through each lesson so you can teach with confidence. Ten stars for Cornerstone Academics!
Sarah Samuel Mother of 3
We are so grateful for Serena! Her patience, kindness, and creative approach to teaching have made learning a wonderful experience for our family. She takes the time to understand how each child learns best and tailors every lesson to keep them engaged and excited. We have seen incredible growth not only in our child’s academic progress, but also in his confidence and love for learning. We could not ask for a better teacher!
Bethany Mitchell Mother
Serena is a wonderful teacher who treats every student with kindness, fairness, and respect. She encourages her students to challenge themselves and do their best, and she keeps parents well informed about their child’s progress. We truly appreciate her dedication and support.
PARENT OF A FORMER STUDENT
Read one story. Teach one week. Decide from experience.
Use it with your child. See samples of our stories, questions, and lesson pages.