The traditional boys' preparatory school, a sort of 'mini-public school' which prepares boys for entry to proper public schools at the age of 13, is a very British institution, so it came as a surprise to this English reader to find that this book was published in Washington DC. However, the American perspective upon the subject provided by the authors is to be welcomed. Also welcome are the numerous photographs, beautifully capturing an educational ethos which is now, somewhat sadly, in decline. The limited number of stunning colour plates show how even more impressive the book would be if printed throughout in colour. However, considering the modest price of the book one must not grumble too much: there is much here to reward the mind and delight the eye.