'Be Realistic, Demand the Impossible'

Bronwen J. Cohen, Honorary Professor in Social Policy, School of Social and Political Studies, University of Edinburgh There will certainly be considerable interest amongst many of those who have known Helen Penn over the course of her eclectic career, and the quality of her writing will ensure that it is a good read. She is not only a recognised authority in this field but well known for her alternative narratives. In summary, I think you should publish this memoir - it has an important contribution to make to our understanding of this area of policy and will throw light on a history which is often forgotten. Emeritus Professor Peter Moss, Thomas Coram Research Unit, UCL Institute of Education, University College London I am an unreserved enthusiast for this proposal. Helen Penn is a remarkable woman, with a remarkable story to tell, which she can tell supremely well. Tullia Musatti, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, National Research Council, Italy I have read the book proposal with great pleasure. I share the view of its author that there is a need for a more comprehensive understanding of the cultural and social perspectives of ECEC services. I think that the approach proposed by Helen Penn sounds really stimulating. I strongly recommend to publish this book and I think that it will find a right place within the Contesting Early Childhood series.