Homeschool curriculum review
Five in a Row
Unit study through picture books, literature-based
Last reviewed January 2025 · Price last checked January 2025
About This Curriculum
A unit-study curriculum for young children that reads the same picture book every day for five days, then explores math, science, art, and social studies through the lens of that book. FIAR creates a warm, memory-rich early childhood education.
This review looks at who Five in a Row fits best, who should compare alternatives, what a normal day can look like, parent prep, cost, and similar programs to consider.
Who This Fits Best
Five in a Row is strongest for faith-neutral families covering PreK–2nd who want room to customize pacing, subjects, and day-to-day flow. It is especially worth considering if your priorities include creates magical early childhood memories and seamlessly integrates all subjects through story.
Who Should Consider an Alternative
Consider an alternative if prek–2nd grade only or does not include formal math or phonics — must supplement. Families who need a very different teaching format, budget level, or faith orientation should compare Five in a Row against the alternatives below before buying.
What a Typical Day Looks Like
A typical day with Five in a Row often includes read-aloud time, discussion, narration or written response, and follow-up work in history, literature, or related subjects. The rhythm is relational and book-heavy, so it works best when a parent can protect consistent reading time.
Parent Prep Required
Five in a Row requires moderate parent prep. Read the next lesson, gather any materials, and decide what to skip, slow down, or supplement based on your child.
At a Glance
Strengths & Considerations
Strengths
- ✓Creates magical early childhood memories
- ✓Seamlessly integrates all subjects through story
- ✓Extremely gentle and developmentally appropriate
- ✓Builds a love of books and learning from day one
- ✓Very affordable
Consider Before Buying
- –PreK–2nd grade only
- –Does not include formal math or phonics — must supplement
- –More of a framework than a complete curriculum
Best Alternatives
If Five in a Row is close but not quite right, compare it against curricula with similar tags, worldview, or teaching style.
Brave Writer
Writing lifestyle, literature-driven, relaxed language arts
Blossom and Root
Charlotte Mason, nature-based, secular, literature-rich
Torchlight Curriculum
Charlotte Mason, living books, faith-flexible
Frequently Asked Questions About Five in a Row
How much does Five in a Row cost?+
Five in a Row runs about $40–$80 per year. Volumes I–IV; picture books purchased separately
What grades does Five in a Row cover?+
Five in a Row covers grades PreK–2nd. Always check the publisher's current placement guidance before buying.
Is Five in a Row faith-based or secular?+
Five in a Row is faith-neutral. A unit-study curriculum for young children that reads the same picture book every day for five days, then explores math, science, art, and social studies through the lens of that book. FIAR creates a warm, memory-rich early childhood education.
Who is Five in a Row best for?+
Five in a Row is strongest for faith-neutral families covering PreK–2nd who want room to customize pacing, subjects, and day-to-day flow. It is especially worth considering if your priorities include creates magical early childhood memories and seamlessly integrates all subjects through story.
Who should avoid Five in a Row?+
Consider an alternative if prek–2nd grade only or does not include formal math or phonics — must supplement. Families who need a very different teaching format, budget level, or faith orientation should compare Five in a Row against the alternatives below before buying.