The hornbook originated in England and served the function of teaching children to read, learn math or to receive religious instruction. Hornbooks are somewhat like the more modern idea of a primer. Lessons would include, math, reading and letters. The lessons would be purchased from a printer and put onto a paddle shaped board. These were then covered with thin sheets of horn that allowed the pages to be looked at without handling them. As the lessons progressed, the pages could be changed out. Reading was done aloud, math could be worked out with a chalk board or out loud. Our versions are traditional and we have also added a chalk board surface to one side. You pick the version you want!