History Odyssey is a secular, literature-based history curriculum from Pandia Press designed for classical homeschooling. The three-level program (grades 1-12) cycles through four time periods, using living books and portfolio assessment rather than textbooks and tests.
What is History Odyssey?
History Odyssey is a comprehensive classical history curriculum published by Pandia Press. Unlike textbook-based approaches, it guides students through world history using living books—engaging narrative histories and literature from each time period. The curriculum follows classical education's Trivium structure with three levels corresponding to grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages. Students cycle through four chronological periods (Ancients, Middle Ages, Early Modern, Modern Times) at progressively deeper levels, building layered understanding over their educational journey.
Key Takeaways
- Three levels align with classical Trivium: Grammar (1-4), Logic (5-8), Rhetoric (9-12)
- Four time periods studied at each level with increasing sophistication
- Portfolio assessment—no tests or answer keys, students create yearly documentation
- Secular approach that treats world religions objectively and respectfully
- Each course designed as year-long study ($39.99-$46.99 per course)
Curriculum Structure
How It Works
History Odyssey provides weekly lesson plans with assigned readings from living books (purchased separately), map work, writing assignments, and project ideas. Students compile work into a year-long portfolio rather than taking tests. The curriculum integrates history with language arts through extensive writing practice and with geography through map activities. Levels Two and Three are written directly to students, enabling greater independence while Level One assumes parent involvement. Each of the four time periods is available at each level—Ancients Level 1, Ancients Level 2, etc.
Considerations Before Choosing
History Odyssey requires purchasing multiple books beyond the curriculum guide itself. Some required titles are out of print, requiring effort to find used copies. The curriculum assumes families want to handle their own writing instruction—comprehensive writing guidance is not provided. Managing multiple children at different levels simultaneously can be challenging. A free 3-week trial helps families evaluate fit before committing. For those wanting complete writing instruction integrated with history, other options may serve better.
The Bottom Line
History Odyssey stands out as one of the best-reviewed secular options for classical history education. The living books approach keeps history engaging, while the Trivium-aligned structure builds genuine historical thinking over time. Families committed to the classical model who want secular content will find it excellent. Just budget for book purchases, plan for supplementary writing instruction, and use the free trial to ensure it matches your family's approach.
