Both tell world history as a narrative that can be read aloud to the whole family. Story of the World by Susan Wise Bauer is neutral in its treatment of religion, covering Christianity alongside other world religions as historical phenomena. Mystery of History by Linda Lacour Hobar is written from an explicitly Christian perspective, weaving Biblical events into the timeline alongside secular history.
Story of the World is the default choice for secular and neutral homeschool families, and for Christian families who prefer to add their own faith perspective through supplemental materials. Mystery of History is the default choice for Christian families who want their worldview integrated directly into the history narrative. Both are well-written, multi-age friendly, and pair well with additional living books and activities.
| Story of the World | The Mystery of History | |
|---|---|---|
| Grades | 1st–6th | 1st–12th |
| Subject | History | History |
| Philosophy | Classical, Charlotte Mason, Eclectic | Classical, Charlotte Mason |
| Format | Books | Books |
| Orientation | Neutral | Christian |
| Structure | Medium | Medium |
| Parent Time | Medium | Medium |
| Learning Style | Story-Based, Auditory | Story-Based |
| Best For | Multi-Age Families | Multi-Age Families |
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