Thomas Albritton’s work would enthrall any educator, developmental psychologist, philosopher, or lover of children’s literature with its astute and witty analysis of British children’s classics through the lens of education. I had never thought of these classics as commentaries on approaches to education, but as Albritton demonstrates, of course they are. He helps readers to understand their favorite characters from childhood as representations of the teachers, classmates, and parents they’ve encountered throughout their lives and places these representations adeptly in the context of modern education and school reform.

Allison Blosser, author of Faith, Diversity, and Education: An Ethnography of a Conservative Christian School

It is rare to find an academic text so accessible that explores something so complex and seemingly inaccessible as literary and educational theories. Albritton has a way of presenting engaging, thought-provoking ideas with popular culture examples to examine and explain some of the more complicated ideas within education and literary analysis. Not only is this book instructional, well-researched and beautifully written, it is a joy to read. I found myself inspired and informed—a unique and thrilling combination for any scholar.

Maggie Parke, lecturer and consultant in popular culture and industry practice

Albritton takes the reader on a nostalgic journey through the classics of childhood, brilliantly illuminating these familiar stories with fresh light and revealing the wide range of educational theory hiding just below their surfaces. From Alice’s Wonderland journey of self-discovery and personal growth through the progressive and experiential educations reflected in Beatrix Potter’s stories and Wendy’s foray into Neverland, to the manifold instructional methods at Hogwarts, Albritton expertly weaves the twin strands of educational theory and classic children’s literature into a seamless narrative that is enlightening to scholars of both fields.

Charlie Lovett, author of Lewis Carroll: Formed by Faith