Cornerstone Academics
The Captain's Boy & The Hard Truth
Couldn't load pickup availability
📦 Shipping Notice for Print Books
To keep shipping costs as low as possible, we recommend placing smaller print book orders whenever practical. Orders that exceed our print partner's U.S. shipping weight limit may be fulfilled from a U.K. facility, resulting in significantly higher shipping charges. If you're purchasing several print books, placing two or more smaller orders will often reduce your shipping costs.
The Cornerstone Story Collection — High School
Two complete novellas in one volume, written for readers in grades 9–12 — substantial, unhurried historical fiction about the courage to tell the truth - about yourself, and to a friend.
The Captain's Boy. On a Norwegian herring boat in a failing season, fifteen-year-old Eskil makes one small, proud choice that costs the whole crew their catch - and lets another man take the blame. What it costs him to set it right, spoken aloud on the open deck, is the truest work of his life.
The Hard Truth. Sivert can tell false gold from true by the drag of it on the stone. When his closest friend stakes everything on a stranger's glittering promise, Sivert must decide whether friendship means keeping the peace or telling a hard truth to a face he loves.
Set in richly imagined working worlds — herring boats and hill farms, smithies and droving roads — these are stories that trust their readers: no easy lessons, no thin characters, only real people carrying real weight and choosing well at real cost. Together the pair turns on honesty, accountability, and the courage to speak plainly.
Ideal for the classical or Charlotte Mason high-school reader, for family read-aloud and discussion, and for anyone who wants literature that forms character without ever preaching. A companion to the elementary volumes of The Cornerstone Story Collection, written for older hearts and longer attention.
This volume includes two complete novellas:
- The Captain's Boy
- The Hard Truth
Choose your format: Paperback (6 x 9 in, 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.