"To those educators and practitioners who are not familiar with place- and community-based education, Smith and Sobel's book will offer an accessible and engaging entry into an important field. In an era of school reform models that deliver scripted curricula, promise classroom order and discipline, and are shaped by competitive markets, Smith and Sobel offer a refreshingly different model--"to transform schools into living laboratories for democracy, places that can reinvigorate the neighborhoods and communities that surround them" (p. xiii)."--Teachers College Record "Because both authors have already made significant contributions to the P-C-B E literature prior to this book, they are probably among the most qualified educators to give us this educational tool kit.The authors provide just enough information to serve as a guide to real action in linking schools and communities in vital ways. Readers who wish to further explore the literature of this field will find that the references provided will keep them busy for a long time."--The Journal of Environmental Education "For educators and community members looking for a practical entry into place- and community-based education, this book is a long awaited answer.the finest quality of this practical book is not in finding a lockstep recipe to achieve successful schools.

Successful place- and community-based models come from within and Smith and Sobel confirm that honoring distinct places in the way we teach and learn honors children, teachers, and community members."--Children, Youth and Environment explore the literature of this field will find that the references provided will keep them busy for a long time."--The Journal of Environmental Education "For educators and community members looking for a practical entry into place- and community-based education, this book is a long awaited answer.the finest quality of this practical book is not in finding a lockstep recipe to achieve successful schools. Successful place- and community-based models come from within and Smith and Sobel confirm that honoring distinct places in the way we teach and learn honors children, teachers, and community members."--Children, Youth and Environment.