Rating: 
Summary: Bacon's And Jefferson's Whole Person Concept Of Education
Review: This book is appropriate in today's world of education, political correctness, and less-than-merit based selections. How good, really, have the "Harvard Schmarvards" become because of all these artificial manipulations of young people? The author is absolutely correct in saying you get out of college what you are willing to put in to it, and, the best colleges are the ones that bring out the best in you. That's also what Bacon and Jefferson said in their writings on education, according to the book by Norman Thomas Remick called "West Point: Character Leadership Education", which I read at the suggestion of other guidance councillors. I am of the opinion that West Point has to be the #1 college in our nation, if not the world, because it matches the intellectual education of the "Harvard Schmarvards", but exceeds them, and all others, in character education and leadership education. And, because it's a national institution, it's free. Whatsmore, everyone has a good chance of getting in. Everyone should at least look in to what West Point is all about. Students and parents can read the Remick book mentioned above, which is recommended-reading by West Point Admissions. West Point has certainly evolved into the best kept secret in education. In short, it's the best fulfillment of Bacon's and Jefferson's whole person concept of education. In the long run, that's what life (America) is all about.
Rating: 
Summary: Good but not great
Review: This book is good--certainly better than many college admissions books--but it's far from being great. First, while much of the advice seems solid, the details are sparse. We could use more facts and examples to back up the advice. Second, while the author has some opinions on colleges, he doesn't explain many of them. Allen, in College Admissions Trade Secrets, has loads of strong opinions but usually explains them and gives facts to back them up. Third, what about the kids who just want to go to Harvard or Princeton? Taylor's advice is often more "why do you want to go to Harvard?" than helping kids understand how to get into Harvard. Once again, if you want insider tips for getting into a top college, you'll need to buy a book by Allen, Hernandez or perhaps Toor. Taylor's book does a great job of convincing applicants that being rejected from Yale isn't the end of the world -- but other books do a better job of explaining how to get admitted to Yale.
Rating:
Summary: Practical And Sound Advice.
Review: This is a marvellous book. It will make a college search fun and successful.I highly recommend it to both parents and college seekers. The advice on what to do if you are wait-listed at the college that is your first choice is worth the price of the book alone.The back of the book contains ratings on 100 colleges and smaller universities where a student can get a high quality education. Start at the top and work your way down the list. Their is a school on this list that is just right for you.
Rating:
Summary: required reading for H.S. freshmen's parents!
Review: With two kids of my own in college and one a high school freshman, the only thing worse then worrying about prom nite and all the decision making about who's going to be in which limo -- is planning the college application process.Parents of entering high school students should read Mathews' book BEFORE running out in their child's junior year and buying U.S. News and World Report's College Guide. Mathews' book is a no nonsense, wise guide. And I don't want to give out one of his best secrets but you wouldn't BELIEVE which celebrity didn't finish high school! Of course he also offers his own list of universities that deserve a peek. I know of some of them because I presently know of friends' children attending those schools and they really offer a fine education.
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