Reviews two books: (1) "The Nursery World of Dr. Blatz," by Jocelyn Matcher Raymond, describing W. E. Blatz's accomplishments in early childhood education (ECE); and (2) "Early Education: The Current Debate," by Joyce Watt, examining the purpose and effectiveness of ECE with respect to children, parents, communities, services, and curricula. (AC)

Describes Ellsworth and Ames' edited book as an eclectic collection including historical, ethnographic, autobiographical, empirical, and self-reflective texts. Maintains that although the book is an important contribution to the literature by placing current practices into historical and social context, thereby leading to a more critical view of…