Illiterate America - by Jonathan Kozol (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

It is startling and it is shaming: in a country that prides itself on being among the most enlightened in the world, 25 million American adults cannot read the poison warnings on a can of pesticide, a letter from their child's teacher, or the front page of a newspaper. An additional 35 million read below the level needed to function successfully in our society. The United States ranks forty-ninth among 158 member nations of the UN in literacy, and wastes over $100 billion annually as a result. The problem is not merely an embarrassment, it is a social and economic disaster.

In Illiterate America, Jonathan Kozol, author of National Book Award-winning Death at an Early Age, addresses this national disgrace. Combining hard statistics and heartrending stories, he describes the economic and the human costs of illiteracy. Kozol analyses and condemns previous government action--and inaction--and, in a passionate call for reform, he proposes a specific program to conquer illiteracy.

One out of every three American adults cannot read this book--which is why everyone else must.

Review Quotes

"Stunning... with passion and eloquence Kozol reveals a devastating truth... and offers a challenge and remedy."--Studs Terkel

"A call to action, a manifesto... His enthusiasm renews our energies for the struggle before us, and gives welcome support to those committed to the notion that universal literacy and education are necessary for living a richer, better informed life."--Joseph S. Murphy, New York Times

"Kozol... has assembled facts, rebuttals, and proposals--in an emotionally potent, ethically charged package."--Kirkus

About the Author

JONATHAN KOZOL is the author of Death at an Early Age, Savage Inequalities, Amazing Grace, and other award-winning books about young children and their public schools.