Notgrass vs. Mystery of History: Which One’s Right for Your Homeschool?

Trying to choose between Notgrass and Mystery of History? I’ve been there—mid-coffee spill, toddler meltdown, wondering if I’d just spent $200 on a history curriculum my kids would hate. These two are hugely popular among Christian homeschoolers—and for good reason. They’re both fantastic. But let’s be honest: one might fit your family a whole lot better than the other.

In this post, I’m going to break it all down for you with stories, comparisons, pros, cons, and a few laughs along the way. I’ve personally used Notgrass with my own kids (Luke, 8, and Penny, 5), and I’ve gone over the Mystery of History books in hard copy. So you’re not just getting surface-level info—you’re getting the good, the messy, and the surprisingly helpful.

Heads up: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you buy through them, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. It helps fund our homeschool, our snack stash, and my ever-growing collection of coffee mugs. Thanks for supporting our family’s wild and wonderful homeschool journey!

1. How Much Do You Have to Teach?

Let’s start with the pressure point: how much do you have to teach each day?

When I first started homeschooling, I was printing worksheets at 11pm, highlighting teacher guides like I was cramming for a uni exam, and wondering why I didn’t just enroll them in a monastery.

Notgrass shines here (see it in hard copy on the video at the end of this post).

Older kids can work independently, reading the text and completing the work themselves.

But what I love is that it still works as a family subject. I read it aloud with my kids, and we all genuinely enjoy it.

Mystery of History (MOH) is better suited to middle and high school students.

It’s not as friendly for the little ones—many parents say it just doesn’t land well in the younger years. But in high school? It really starts to shine. The content deepens, and the discussions get richer.

2. Style & Storytelling

History can go one of two ways: edge-of-your-seat adventure… or “please make it stop” textbook snoozefest.

Charles Spurgeon was once criticized for being too dramatic when preaching.

People said he was practically performing. He replied, “I’d rather be accused of theatrics than preach a lifeless gospel.”

And honestly?

That’s the bar for a good history curriculum.

Both Notgrass and MOH use storytelling, not just a list of dates.

Notgrass is slightly more unit studies, with lots of hands-on activities and story-driven literature.

MOH feels more classical—like you’re listening to a captivating audiobook (but altogether it’s rather eclectic).

Both pull you into the time period in a way that sticks.

3. Visuals & Engagement

Ever tried reading about castles without any pictures?

It’s like describing pizza to someone who’s never tasted cheese.

One mom said her daughter couldn’t picture Noah’s Ark—until they came across a to-scale illustration. “Ohhh,” her daughter said. “It was HUGE. Like a zoo-house-boat.” Boom. Connection made.

Notgrass is vibrant, photo-heavy, and perfect for visual learners.

It’s got colorful photos of real-world places and people.

MOH, on the other hand, is more artistic.

Think paintings, sculptures, and beautiful classical artwork.

One’s a bright scrapbook; the other’s an elegant museum brochure.

Feeling Overwhelmed?

Let’s take a pause.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “Why is this so hard?

Shouldn’t I just know what to pick?”—I get it.

That’s why I created the Homeschool Parenting Program. It’s not a curriculum—it’s a support system.

It helps you figure out what fits your family, how to teach confidently, and how to stop second-guessing every decision.

Honestly, it’s what I wish I had when I started homeschooling.

If that sounds like something you need, you’ll find the link in the middle of this blog. ❤️

4. American History Coverage

Now for a spicy topic: Does it actually cover American history?

Here’s the scoop.

Mystery of History is primarily world history. It’s broad, sweeping, and very global—which is amazing if you want a big picture.

But if you’re after thorough U.S. history?

Notgrass wins. They offer multiple American history options, and it’s done in more depth. If you’re an American homeschooler who wants solid coverage of U.S. history, Notgrass is the better bet.

5. Hands-On Learning

Let’s be honest. Sometimes kids just need to do something.

Notgrass is packed with hands-on projects, timelines, and optional activities.

One of my favorite parts?

The built-in project prompts that make you feel like a Pinterest parent… without actually logging into Pinterest.

MOH has activities too—especially if you like crafting and diving into extras—but it doesn’t lean as heavily into it.

Notgrass just makes it easier to implement.

6. Christian Worldview

This is where both programs really shine.

They’re both deeply Christian and approach history through a biblical lens.

You’ll see church history, gospel connections, and God’s hand in world events.

If you want a curriculum that doesn’t just include the Bible, but uses it to frame the entire historical narrative, you’ll be happy with either one.

7. Bonus Materials & Structure

Let’s talk goodies.

MOH includes printable extras, project ideas, and a CD with tests and audio. Some parents say their kids love the “Miss Linda” audio during lunchtime.

Notgrass, on the other hand, comes with physical literature books, timeline books, and gorgeous workbooks. It’s open-and-go and very user-friendly.

One mom mentioned how MOH doesn’t do a great job with U.S. history—which, as an Aussie, I kinda liked. Less American focus meant more room for the global picture. But if you’re in the U.S., that might be a drawback.

Quick Pricing Breakdown

• Notgrass: Around $150–$300, depending on grade level. But remember: you’re getting a full package with beautiful, hold-in-your-hands books.

• MOH: Around $150–$190 per volume. Includes digital extras like the CD, tests, and printable activities.

Notgrass is a little more expensive upfront—but you’re also getting more in the box.

Final Thoughts (and What to Watch Next)

So who wins?

Honestly, they’re both excellent.

• If I had only littles? I’d go with Notgrass.

• If I had high schoolers? MOH would probably be my pick.

But these aren’t your only two options. I made a full video comparing the top 10 homeschool history curricula here—and I think you’ll be surprised which ones made the list.

👉 Head over to my post and video called “The TOP 10 Homeschool HISTORY Curriculum Comparison” to explore more fun, faith-filled, and fabulous options for your family.

And if you liked this post, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel, How to Homeschool, for more honest reviews, homeschool laughs, and way too much coffee-fueled commentary.

You’ve got this.

—Rebecca

PS: if you’re liking the sound of Notgrass, watch the video below where you can see my copy of it in action!