The New Encyclopedia of Southern Culture. Vol. 17

This is the latest in a monographic series begun in 2006 with the intent of updating and expanding the well-received Encyclopedia of Southern Culture (Univ. of North Carolina, 1989), also sponsored by the Center for the Study of Southern Culture. It "places education in the broader context of southern society and regional cultural identity," according to the introduction, and features a collection of topical essays (alphabetically arranged) that precede a set of encyclopedic entries devoted to people, places, and things in Southern education. For example, topical essays in the section "Urban and Metropolitan Colleges and Universities (Post 1945)" are complemented by entries for Rice University and Southern Methodist University. Likewise, a topical essay on military schools is buttressed by encyclopedic entries on the Citadel and the Virginia Military Institute. Slightly weighted toward higher education and toward the 20th century (a broader perspective would have required multiple volumes), it includes references to the general history of education (of all levels) in the Southern United States. The series is edited by well-respected scholar of Southern culture Charles Reagan Wilson, editor of the original Encyclopedia of Southern Culture. Volume editor Mohr (history, Univ. of South Alabama) is an equally respected scholar of Southern history and education. The 100-plus essays and entries are all signed by contributors, and most include references. The volume also includes an extensive index. BOTTOM LINE This excellent (and singular) source of scholarship on education from a unique cultural perspective will be a welcome addition to academic libraries, especially in those institutions with strong education programs.—Sarah W. Sutton, Texas A&M Univ.-Corpus Christi