2026 is ushering in a sensational year for book lovers, with notable celebrity readers like Katie Couric and Reese Witherspoon already sharing their reading choices for January. Read With Jenna, the esteemed book club founded by Today Show co-host Jenna Bush Hager, has also revealed its January book club pick. After taking readers back in time with a December pick of “Pride and Prejudice,” Jenna’s first selection for the new year is a memoir she describes as “a beautiful debut.”
On a recent episode of the Today Show, Jenna announced her January pick as “Homeschooled” by Stefan Merrill Block. Released on January 6, the book is praised by Jenna for its portrayal of a tender mother-son love story exploring forgiveness, hope, and healing in the face of dysfunction.
Stefan Merrill Block, an American writer from Plano, Texas, is known for his international bestseller “The Story of Forgetting.” “Homeschooled” marks his debut memoir, delving into his experiences being homeschooled in a chaotic, unstructured environment after his family’s move to Texas.
Fans of Tara Westover’s “Educated” will find “Homeschooled” a must-read as both books explore the impact of nontraditional education on personal development. While Westover’s memoir details her self-education journey in a secluded rural setting, Block’s memoir focuses on his upbringing in an unconventional homeschooling environment and its effects on his growth.
In a departure from traditional schooling narratives, both authors delve into the complexities of family relationships outside formal education systems and structured social norms. Each memoir offers a unique perspective on the lasting influence of early experiences on individual identity.
With an engaging narrative style and thought-provoking themes, “Homeschooled” invites readers to reflect on the significance of personal learning journeys and familial dynamics. As Jenna recommends this poignant memoir for January reading, it promises to captivate and inspire book lovers looking for a compelling exploration of unconventional educational paths.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.