THE OPTIMISTIC TRADITION AND AMERICAN YOUTH

Tracing this peculiarly American tradition from the early settlers through the frontier period and immigration waves, Mr. Ginzberg examines its effects and limitations with respect to modern youth. He simply states the special problems confronting young people, their parents, and their teachers, in an age when change is accepted as progress. There is some constructive suggestion, but the emphasis is on critical analysis. At its most ambitious, the book points up the sad fact that, even in this best of all possible nations, not enough money and talent are appropriated for education and guid. The young reader will find this provocative.