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BJU Press Reading

Illustrated, comprehension-focused readers with an optional video course.

Updated September 2026 · 8 sources

Grades	K–6
Approach	Traditional, comprehension-focused
Who teaches	The parent teaches from a scripted guide
Parent prep	Moderate (or use video lessons)
Screen time	A mix of screen and paper
Faith	Christian content throughout
Cost	BJU Press Reading Grade 1 Homeschool Kit (5th Edition): $181.20 at Christianbook (25% off list $241.66) (source)
ESA vendor	Publisher is on the approved vendor list in Arkansas (Direct Pay), New Hampshire. Checked September 2026; each state's list can change and applies to the publisher, not every product.

Is it right for your child? Answer a few questions to see how BJU Press Reading ranks against 24 other programs.

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What parents say

Parents like the illustrated readers and the emphasis on real comprehension, not just decoding, and the optional videos take much of the teaching off a parent's plate. The main complaints are cost, especially with video lessons added, and a short return window if you're prepping ahead for next year.

Parents love

Comprehension-focused, not just decoding
Well-illustrated readers
Video lessons available

Common complaints

Cost adds up with videos
Short return policy
Religious content throughout

Who it fits

Best for

Just starting (letter sounds).
Reading simple words. Comprehension-focused readers for early grades
Systematic phonics. Structured, sequential lessons
Some screen time. A mix of screen and paper
Plenty: I teach it directly. Detailed teacher edition
A little rusty. Scripted: tells you exactly what to say
Christian worldview. Biblical worldview throughout

Less suited for

No religious content. Religious content throughout

These come straight from the scoring rules the quiz uses.

Similar programs

Alpha Omega LIFEPAC/Monarch Language ArtsColorful, self-instructional units in print (LIFEPAC) or online (Monarch)
Rod & Staff (reading/English)Traditional, non-consumable grammar-and-reading textbooks from a Mennonite publisher
Abeka Reading/PhonicsRigorous synthetic phonics with scripted daily lessons and constant review

Comparisons

BJU Press Reading vs Abeka Reading/Phonics

Questions parents ask

What grades does BJU Press Reading cover?

BJU Press Reading covers grades K–6.

How much does BJU Press Reading cost?

BJU Press Reading Grade 1 Homeschool Kit (5th Edition): $181.20 at Christianbook (25% off list $241.66). Prices were checked on publisher or retailer pages in September 2026; check current prices before buying.

Is BJU Press Reading Christian or secular?

BJU Press Reading includes Christian content throughout.

Is BJU Press Reading online?

A mix of screen and paper. The parent teaches from a scripted guide.

Is BJU Press Reading good for dyslexia or a suspected reading difficulty?

BJU Press Reading isn't built specifically around dyslexia intervention, though it can still work for some kids with reading difficulties.

Sources (8)

Summaries are in our own words.