By Study and Faith:

Exploring a Gospel-Centered Homeschool Education

By Heather Merrill

Buy the Book

As modern schools become increasingly secular and even unsafe, many parents are considering educational alternatives like homeschool. However, resources that help them succeed are scarce. In this book, Heather Merrill, a veteran homeschool parent and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares her personal experience creating a homeschool—one that combines academic achievement with developing faith in Jesus Christ.  

Join Heather as she elaborates on the lessons and best practices that she has acquired by both study and faith. In her home, the results of such an effort have been improved academic performance, stronger family bonds, and a deeper understanding of the gospel in her children. It is no wonder she calls homeschooling “the joy of my life! ” 

By Study and Faith is a powerful resource for all parents who want to establish a homeschool centered in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. As you read Heather’s story, you will gain tools, faith, and confidence that will help you succeed in your own homeschool journey!

eBook

$8.99

Paperback

$15.99

Hardback

$21.99

Reviews

This book left me feeling hopeful and inspired. An excellent resource to help LDS families work through the whys and hows of homeschooling—whether a beginner just starting out or a veteran homeschooler looking for new ways to improve and grow.

Sandra M.

Heather’s story will inspire all parents hoping to build a faith-based education at home, especially those who feel called to do it, but who don’t know where to start. Walking through her journey from the very first “nudges” that led her to consider homeschool for her children to her fully-realized legacy of a homeschool built on both study and faith, this book empowers me to believe that I can do it, too.

Miriam B.

This book was so empowering to read! It helped me feel more confident and knowledgeable about homeschooling. This book encourages you to seek inspiration from the Lord as well as to seek out your own talents and passions to make homeschooling effective for you, which was so motivating for me to read about! I would say this is a must read if you are thinking about homeschooling!

Nikelle J.

I could not put it down!!! This book is a classic and should be on every family’s bookshelf, whether or not they choose to homeschool. Heather doesn’t just inspire in principle (like: What kind of culture do we want in our homes? How do we establish it? What are the benefits of a home-centered education? What does it mean to have a Gospel or Christ-centered home education, and why does it matter?)—she also gives tons of practical details about what a day-to-day schedule could look like, advice on curriculum, different methods of teaching and learning, and answers to all the everyday, boots-on-the-ground questions any homeschooling parent might have.

As a new mother just beginning the leap into homeschool, I couldn’t have found a better resource. I feel inspired and like I finally have clear direction. I’ve already marked it up and dog-eared so many pages—it will definitely be kept close as a reference to reread again and again. I can’t say enough good. Thank you, Heather!

Emma M.

This book was amazing. I have been home schooling off and on for 20 years and despite being a veteran gained so much. It definitely pertains to every stage of the journey; whether exploring the idea, new to home schooling, or a veteran. It offers encouragement and renewed my dedication.

Denece A., Youth Director, LDSHE Conferences 2026