With growing numbers of children living in poverty and standardized tests becoming increasingly important, there's never been a better time for a volume of essays on the value of play in mental and emotional development.

Mary Ruth Moore and Constance Sabo-Risley honor and build upon the work of Joe L. Frost, the father of play advocacy, in this essential resource for educators, parents, and anyone concerned about the future of our children.

The essays examine play in America from historical, psychological, economic, and other perspectives, focusing on why we should worry...