Fact: While I rock English and math, history is one of those things I managed to get through my entire education without actually learning. American history I have a very, very basic knowledge, but world history? Forget about it! As you can imagine, this can make for a rather lop-sided homeschooling experience for my boys. Luckily, they have a father that knows and loves history, and they have a mother who is always willing to learn new things.

When the Schoolhouse Review Crew offered me the opportunity to review Heirloom Audio Productions‘  In Freedom’s Cause, I jumped on it for two reasons: 1) I knew it would give us a great opportunity learn a piece of history that I had exactly zero knowledge about, and 2) it features the voice talent of my beloved Joanne Froggatt from Downton Abbey. For our review we received In Freedom’s Cause Single Package, which includes the In Freedom’s Cause physical CDs, In Freedom’s Cause Study Guide, In Freedom’s Cause Soundtrack, and a Printable copy of The Prayer Of William Wallace.

First, you might be wondering what, exactly, IS In Freedom’s Cause. In Freedom’s Cause is an audio drama based on the book by the same name by G.A. Henty. In Freedom’s Cause tells the story of William Wallace and The Bruce and their fight against oppression in thirteenth century Scotland. It is a two CD set with an amazing cast (see above, Joanne Froggatt!) and amazing production.

Thanks to the wonderful sub-zero temperatures here in Indiana, we’ve been spending a whole lot of time indoors. What happens when you’re stuck indoors 24/7, especially when you’re a 7 or 9 year old boy? The worst case of cabin fever you have ever seen. My children were bored, restless, and fight-y. One day in the midst of all this, I popped the first CD in. Big Boy (9) immediately calmed down and sat still, looking completely focused. Little Man (7) was not such a fast sell. He still wanted to whine and complain and not concentrate on the story. However, within about ten minutes he was hooked. By the end of the first CD, he had his little action figures set up, using them to give physical presence to the voices on the CD player.

As I mentioned above, when you purchase the CD set, you will gain access to some really great bonus features on the website, including a 48 page study guide full of story review, vocabulary, maps, and discussion questions to get you and your students thinking deeper. Another great feature we have taken advantage of is the character guide. This is a helpful bonus that sets the scene for you, because the first time you listen to it it can be hard to keep track of all the characters. OK, honestly, it was hard for me, but the boys seemed to follow it just fine.

Now here comes the sensitive topic: religion. As a member of the Review Crew, I went into my position knowing that some products I am offered will be from a Christian perspective. I agreed from the beginning to review products with an open mind and heart, no matter what my personal feelings are. I intend to stand behind that. That being said, we are not Christian homeschoolers. This product, however, is a product made by Christians and marketed to Christians. Some of the reviews I saw beforehand were so focused on that aspect of it that I was a little afraid it would focus so much on Wallace’s religion that it would take away from the historical accuracy. That is absolutely not the case. This is a well thought out, well executed production. It is true, this would never make it in a secular, public school setting. There are mentions of Wallace’s faith, there are people quoting Psalms, and there is talk about putting their trust in the Lord. It didn’t feel forced and it didn’t take away from the story, I felt like if anything it added to the historical accuracy. The fact is, this is faith of those people at that time. That would be part of the way they spoke, thought, felt, and acted. That is part of history, and I think it’s important for my children, regardless of our faith being different from theirs, to recognize.

Bottom line: We love In Freedom’s Cause. It is well acted and engaging for all of us, even my husband. We learned so much while being entertained. This is a product we will listen to again and again, and glean more from it each time.