The Essential Montessori: An Introduction to the Woman, the Writings, the Method, and the Movement

by Elizabeth G. Hainstock

Since the remarkable success of Maria Montessori's first school ninety years ago, her theories have had a revolutionary influence on educational practices around the world—not only in avowed Montessori schools but also in learning programs of every type. In the United States alone there are thousands of schools dedicated ot the Montessori method, and there are many others that have incorporated much from her teachings. This newly revised and updated edition of The Essential Montessori will be welcomed by long-term practitioners and newcomers to the method alike. Concise and readable, the book has been relied upon for almost two decades as the definitive guide to the writings of Maria Montessori and to the teaching and application of her ideas in today's educational arena, as well as being an indispensable sourcebook for teacher training programs, advice on choosing schools, materials needed for the classroom, and much more. The Public School Montessorians says of the author: "Her books on Montessori education almost certainly establish her as the most widely read interpreter of Montessori in the United States.… Her writing is clear and accessible, unfettered by jargon."

For those interested in the best education for their children, this volume fully lives up to its title. It has earned its place as the essential work on the subject.

Genres: Education, Parenting, Nonfiction, Reference

160 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1986

Reviews

[Rani Schocroft · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read for work! Picked this up as a way to deepen my understanding of Montessori method and the ways to implement into my teaching, was half disappointed though. It was very informative on the approach Maria Montessori had throughout her teaching and how she valued children as capable humans, I found her world view to be very inspiring in creating a better, peaceful world for the future. I did however have an issue with the author as she used extremely outdated terminology which as soon as I read griped me for the rest of the book. I Would love to have been provided more information surrounding the specific Montessori materials used in a prepared environment and how to present them correctly, some was included in the appendix but it was basically just a grocery list. Still a valuable starting point but Think I’ll pick up something more modern next time!

[James · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting look into the life of Dr Montessori and how her education system came to be. The latter half focuses on her teaching methods, which I found interesting as our kids go to a Montessori kindergarten.

It certainly makes you think how the current system is designed to produce mass worker drones, and there are better ways to tap into kids desire to learn.

[Janice · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an introduction to Montessori. This is a good place to start for a parent curious about Montessori. I loved that it wasn’t totally fawning over Maria Montessori and it recognized her foibles. Had some good points. Would love to see it address elementary more and this digital age.

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This introduction to the Montessori method was concise, but I got bogged down in the history and background. I wanted to know more about the method to which they kept referring. I skimmed most of the second half of the book and have moved on to "Teaching Montessori in the Home: the Preschool Years" for more detail on the method itself.

[Mic · Rating 2 out of 5]

Definitely written in the 70's, complete with kindhearted references to retarded and Mongoloid children. Quick read, 1-2 hour intro to Montessori writings, beliefs, and history. But you'll definitely need to probe further if you actually want to feel like you understand the philosophy.

[Solady Batterjee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that I always go back to,, it is full of stiker notes, easy to read compared to the original Montessori books.

[Shelldog42 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had heard the word "montessori" thrown around, and this book helped me better understand what the method originally meant, and what it has come to mean. very helpful!

[Debbi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice overview of M. Montessori, her work, and her views concerning the education of children.

[Susan Schuler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always wanted to learn more about this woman and her movement and this book was very helpful.

[Thaddeus · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basic, straightforward, biased. About 100 pages. Found parts overly concise (eg the writings of Montessori) and the overall writing not particularly compelling.

[Lorna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting introduction to Montessori.

[bibliolatry · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is too biased, and it is out of date. For someone who is a believer in the Montessori method, there is a LOT of criticism of Maria Montessori, and a lot of it is of a personal nature.