I have worked in the Washington, DC, policy space since 1995. Watching Dr. Jane E. West in action, and now reading her book, solidifies for me that Dr. West is one of the most exceptional policy experts I have worked with and witnessed in action. This book, Advocating for the Common Good, is a must-read for anyone who seeks to engage in advocacy and understand the who, what, where, when, and whys of policy making. Dr. West’s four 'P's provide an excellent framework for the reader. I highly recommend this book to anyone who seeks to make a difference through policy and advocacy.

Lynn M. Gangone, EdD, president and CEO, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education

Despite some of the agonizing news about fractious American politics and policy making, author Jane E. West reminds us to organize and advocate for the common good. Her book, Advocating for the Common Good, provides accessible and revealing details about how policymaking and politics work. West’s deep tissue knowledge and Capitol Hill experiences will keep you reading as she makes transparent and understandable what is often opaque and confusing. I’ve been teaching education policy to PhD and EdD students since 1993, and West’s book is one of the most informative, useful, and engaging that I’ve read!

Leslie T. Fenwick, PhD, AACTE Dean in Residence; Dean Emerita and professor of education policy, Howard University

Jane West is a legend. Her advocacy work for persons with disabilities began in Washington, DC, working for the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. In this thorough, practical, and eminently readable book, Jane shares her experiences in advocating for the common good. This is absolutely indispensable reading for anyone seeking to make positive changes in the world of policy. Jane West's book is an instant classic!

Mitchell L. Yell, Fred and Francis Lester Palmetto Chair, Teacher Education and professor, special education, University of South Carolina

Jane West has written an extraordinarily comprehensive treatise on the legislative process in the US Congress and how advocacy can be translated into effective policy that can influence the creation and enactment of legislation. Through a combination of insights gained from experience as a highly regarded Hill staffer and significant roles representing major educational and policy organizations, she has created a comprehensive primer on the formal process of how legislation is created, providing insights into how to be a most resourceful and effective advocate.

Philip J. Burke, University of Maryland

Jane West's Advocating for the Common Good is at once theoretical and practical. Based on her four decades of experience across the various levers of power in Washington, West provides valuable insights into how our federal government works in comprehensible terms for a wide audience at a critical time in our nation's history.

Maryam Ahranjani, School of Law, University of New Mexico

An engaging and inspiring read. Dr. West presents a complicated and layered process through a clear and digestible framework, extending readers' appreciation of the complex relationships among people, policies, process, and politics. I believe that this book will be read, appreciated, and applied by multiple audiences, including those who approach policy making from an academic or research background, those who are advocates 'in the making,' and those who simply want to learn more about the process. There are many of us who think we understand what's going on in our nation's capital, but few of us possess the depth of understanding and experience that Dr. West has acquired and conveys so clearly through this book.

Katharine Shepherd, dean and Levitt Family Green and Gold Professor, College of Education and Social Services, University of Vermont