The power of this new book lies in its ambition, its scope, its unexpected connections, and its clarity. The beauty of this book is found in its alternating current of fury and compassion, realism and hope, humour and common sense. It is an exceptional ride.
Durrie, now 92 and standing on a long career as educator in both public and private systems, begins with a searing critique of what has gone wrong, and why and how, in conventional teacher-directed education. His examples, thoroughly researched and documented, are often appalling.
He continues with an assessment of the price our culture has paid in its mediocrity, in collapse of the arts, and in corrosion of liberal values and authentic democracy. In every debate, he centres children and their innate curiosity, capacity, and eloquence.
He buttresses all of this with a long central essay that deals with a history of the many reformers who sought to build an architecture of public education. These are often sad but redeeming tales, amply sourced and cited in 676 (!) footnotes. He concludes with a three-part look at futures.
Durrie paints on a vast canvas. He has the gift of uncovering forgotten links, and turning dots into through-lines. He does all of this in a conversational tone chosen to make every reader feel welcome, and to leave inspired.
This is a fascinating read even for those well-versed in the legacy of great authors in the field of educational freedom. The book is jam-packed with curious tidbits from all imaginable sources to boost core theses of the author. In his exposure of human ignorance, the author's caustic language is likely to make you laugh more than once.