All About Reading is widely considered the gold standard phonics-based reading program for homeschool families, and it’s the curriculum most frequently recommended for children with dyslexia or reading difficulties. Developed by Marie Rippel at All About Learning Press, it uses an Orton-Gillingham approach — a multi-sensory, systematic method proven effective for struggling readers.

The program teaches reading through three simultaneous channels: visual (seeing the letters and words), auditory (hearing the sounds), and kinesthetic (physically moving letter tiles on a magnetic board). This multi-sensory approach means students don’t just memorize words — they understand the phonetic code that unlocks all of English reading.

At a Glance

What to Know

All About Reading has four levels plus a Pre-Reading level. Each level includes a Teacher’s Manual, a Student Packet (activity sheets and letter tiles), and a set of readers — decodable books that use only the phonics patterns the student has learned. This means children experience immediate reading success from the very first lesson, which builds confidence alongside skill.

Every lesson is fully scripted in the Teacher’s Manual, so the parent knows exactly what to say and do. No teaching experience or phonics knowledge is required. Lessons take approximately 20 minutes and follow a consistent, predictable structure. The program is secular in content.

At $100–$170 per level (including all materials), All About Reading is a significant investment. However, the materials are reusable with younger siblings (only the student packets are consumable), and many families report that it’s the most effective reading program they’ve used after trying multiple alternatives.

The companion program, All About Spelling, uses the same methodology for spelling instruction and integrates seamlessly. Together, they form a complete phonics-based literacy foundation.

All About Learning Press has a 180-day cookie affiliate program (one of the longest in the industry) and offers a 100% money-back guarantee. The company is family-owned and known for exceptional customer support. For families with a struggling reader, All About Reading is almost always the first recommendation from experienced homeschool parents and reading specialists.