I have used Story of the World Volume 1 and it was not well liked at our home. The activity guide was great, but the text was boring and dry. (At least that is what my boys said.) I know it didn”t not hold their attention for very long at all. However, I know a lot of people who use it and love it. My suggestion, would be to go to Borders or Barnes & Noble and read a chapter or two to see if it would work for you family. You may even be able to see a chapter sample on-line at Peace Hill Press.