Cornerstone Academics
Muddy Boots at the Door, Volume 10
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The Cornerstone Story Collection — Middle School, Volume 10
Four historical novellas in one volume, grouped by reading level.
Mud season turns a mountain settlement brown, and every step tracks it to somebody's door. The hum from the hives at the top of the hill carries down to a girl weeding the bean rows. A tanner's apprentice, sent out with deliveries and a customer's complaint ringing in his ears, discovers what one extra mile actually costs. And a boy gathers the driftwood the sea hands out on its own terms.
Set in richly imagined historical villages inspired by nineteenth-century Northern Europe, each novella celebrates discretion, hospitality, and open-handed generosity through engaging stories that families will enjoy reading again and again. These are quiet, thoughtful tales for older readers who appreciate restraint, moral weight, and quiet literary craft.
This volume includes four complete novellas:
- Muddy Boots at the Door
- The Steep Hill
- One Extra Mile
- Full Basket, Empty Hands
Written for ages 11-14, these historical stories are ideal for readers in grades 6-8 and equally rewarding as family read-alouds — perfect for classical homeschool families seeking rich, character-forming historical fiction.
Choose your format: Paperback (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.