This book profiles two countries which give strong support to parental choice in schooling (The Netherlands and Belgium) and two others that maintain a strong state role in controlling education (Germany and Austria). Author Glenn (educational leadership and development, Boston University) takes a historical perspective, from the 19th century to the end of the 20th century, examining the implications of these policies and the dangers that can arise when the state uses schooling to shape popular beliefs and loyalties. The book begins with brief overview of popular schooling before and after the 16th century Reformation, and a more extensive account of schooling under the influence of Pietism, through the Romantic nationalism of the early 19th century. The author then compares the two sets of countries and describes how totalitarian regimes in Germany used schooling as a means of ideological control. Discussion extends to developments between WWII and the end of the 20th century. The book will be of interest to policy specialists concerned with balancing school autonomy and government oversight, and to those interested in debates over parental choice of schools. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)