Susan Wise Bauer

Susan Wise Bauer is an American author, educator, and historian known for her contributions to classical education and accessible historical narratives. She serves as an English instructor at The College of William and Mary and founded Well-Trained Mind Press (formerly Peace Hill Press). Bauer gained prominence with "The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home," co-authored with Jessie Wise, which became a foundational text for homeschooling families. Her scholarly yet approachable writing extends to works like "The Well-Educated Mind," a guide to engaging with classic literature, and "The Story of Western Science," which traces scientific thought through primary texts.

Bauer's diverse career includes writing the four-volume children's history series "The Story of the World," which covers ancient times through the modern age. She also developed the elementary writing curriculum "Writing With Ease." Before her academic career, Bauer pursued eclectic experiences—from working as a professional musician to teaching literacy—which inform her interdisciplinary approach. Her academic credentials include an M.A., M.Div., and Ph.D., reflecting her multifaceted expertise in literature, theology, and history. Bauer continues to bridge scholarly rigor with public accessibility in her works.
The History of the World Books
# Title Year
1 The History of the Ancient World 2007
2 The History of the Medieval World 2010
3 The History of the Renaissance World 2013
The Story of the World Books
# Title Year
1 Ancient Times: From the Earliest Nomads to the Last Roman Emperor 2001
2 The Middle Ages: From the Fall of Rome to the Rise of the Renaissance 2003
3 Early Modern Times: From Elizabeth the First to the Forty-Niners 2004
4 The Modern Age: From Victoria's Empire to the End of the USSR 2005
Non-Fiction Books
# Title Year
1 The Revolt 1996
2 Though the Darkness Hide Thee 1998
3 The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home (With: Jessie Wise) 1999
4 The Well-Educated Mind: A Guide to the Classical Education You Never Had 2003
5 History for the Classical Child: The Middle Ages 2007
6 The Art of the Public Grovel 2008
7 The Story of Western Science: From the Writings of Aristotle to the Big Bang Theory 2015
8 Rethinking School: How to Take Charge of Your Child's Education 2018
9 Grammar for the Well-Trained Mind Purple Key, Revised Edition (With: Audrey Anderson) 2024
10 The Great Shadow 2026