At last, a comprehensive and readable overview of the field of adult education that will be useful to neophyte and seasoned adult educators, scholars and reflective practitioners. Sharan Merriam and Ralph Brockett have succeeded in a daunting task. (Dr. Jovita M. Ross-Gordon, associate professor and director, Center for Adult Learning Services, New College, St. Edward's University)

?This text is a thorough, up-to-date, comprehensive description of the profession and practice of adult education. Drs. Merriam and Brockett combine their wealth of knowledge and experience in the field to deliver this clever, accurate, highly readable and practical text that describes this critical segment of education for adults.? (Dr. Lorraine A. Cavaliere, dean of education and associate professor, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania)

In a postmodern world of crumbling boundaries, here is a book that draws upon the traditions of the field of adult education without being held captive to them. For those wanting to see where adult education has been, where it has gotten to, and where it might be going, Merriam and Brockett's survey offers a great place to begin a critical reading of a complex field of theory and practice. (Arthur L. Wilson, assistant professor in the Department of Adult and Community College Education, College of Education and Psychology, North Carolina State University and co-author of Planning Responsibly for Adult Education)