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How to Create a Rich and Joy-Filled Literary Culture in Your Homeschool with Amber O’Neal Johnston

If you’ve ever struggled to find books that truly connect with your children—books that spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and bring joy—then you’re going to love today’s podcast episode! I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Amber O’Neal Johnston, better known as Heritage Mom, to talk about her brand-new book, Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture.

Amber is a homeschooling mother, speaker, and author who is passionate about helping families bring a broader and richer perspective into their home libraries. In Soul School, she has carefully curated a collection of over 100 books that celebrate Black history, literature, and culture—stories that don’t just educate but inspire and uplift.

In our conversation, we dive deep into why stories matter, how to choose books that align with your family’s values, and practical ways to use literature to build connection in your homeschool.

Why We Need to Read More Widely—And How to Do It Well

One of the most powerful messages from Amber in this episode is that reading should be more than just a checklist—it should be an experience that connects us to new ideas and to each other. She challenges the idea that books about Black history are only about struggle and hardship. Instead, she wants families to experience the joy of Black culture, too—through music, art, family traditions, and the everyday beauty found in these stories.

Amber reminds us that our kids need both mirrors (books where they see themselves) and windows (books that help them understand the lives of others). When we read stories that highlight different perspectives, we create a rich, well-rounded literary feast for our children.

But how do we choose books wisely? Amber shares her process of carefully curating books that align with family values, ensuring that parents feel confident in what their children are reading. She also offers guidance on how to engage kids in deep, meaningful conversations without having to pre-read every single book yourself!

Practical Ways to Use Books for Connection and Growth

Here are a few of my favorite takeaways from our conversation that you can start using today:

1. Ask Deeper Questions, Not Just Comprehension Checks

• Instead of asking, “What happened in the story?” try asking, “How did this book make you feel?” or “Have you ever experienced something similar?”
• These types of open-ended questions help kids engage with literature on a personal level, making reading more meaningful.

2. Let Books Inspire Rabbit Trails

• When a book sparks curiosity, follow that interest! If your child is fascinated by a historical figure, find documentaries, museum exhibits, or related books to explore further.
• Amber includes “Second Helpings” in Soul School—book pairings that help kids dive deeper into themes and ideas.

3. Thoughtful Book Choices for Teens

• Many parents struggle to find high-quality books for their older kids that align with their values while still being engaging. Amber shares how she carefully curated teen book recommendations that balance depth and appropriateness.
• She also emphasizes that as kids get older, they need books that challenge them while still leaving them with hope.

4. Use Books to Build a Family Culture of Storytelling

• Reading great books together isn’t just about academics—it’s about building relationships.
• Amber encourages families to talk about books naturally, weaving them into everyday conversations and making them a shared experience.

Why This Book is a Must-Have for Homeschool Families

Amber has done the hard work of reading hundreds of books to bring parents a thoughtfully curated collection that is ready to use. Whether you’re looking to expand your homeschool library, find books that align with your values, or simply introduce more joy-filled stories into your home, Soul School is a fantastic resource.

In a world where it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by choices, Soul School offers a clear path forward—helping families build a literary culture that is both rich and life-giving.

About Our Guest:

Amber O’Neal Johnston is a trailblazer in the movement to bring diverse voices and cultural richness to home education. As the creator of HeritageMom.com and the voice behind the popular Instagram account @heritagemomblog, she inspires thousands of families to embrace inclusive education, living books, and intentional parenting. 

Through her writing and speaking, Amber has become a leading voice for families looking to create a more expansive and inclusive learning experience. Her work encourages parents—whether they homeschool or not—to honor their children’s heritage while fostering a deep respect for others. Amber’s home is a testament to her mission, brimming with traditions, music, art, and stories that root her four children in a rich sense of self-worth.

Amber’s books, Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through Black American Culture and A Place to Belong: Raising Kids to Celebrate Their Heritage, Community, and the World, have become essential guides for educators and families alike, changing the way we think about culture in education. She continues to lead a growing community of parents dedicated to raising thoughtful, well-rounded children in homes full of love, joy, and celebration.

Get Your Copy of Soul School: Available now on Amazon and major booksellers!

Connect with Amber:

• Website: heritagemom.com
• Instagram: @heritagemomblog
• More about Soul School: soulschoolbook.com

I’d love to hear from you—what books have made a lasting impact on your homeschool? Drop a comment below and let’s keep the conversation going!