"Vinovskis is recognized as the premier historian of children's programs. His renowned scholarship makes everything he writes must-reading for anyone involved in early childhood issues. The Birth of Head Start is a tremendous contribution to the preservation of the history of our nation's innovative Head Start program."
--Edward Zigler, cofounder of Head Start
— Edward Zigler
"Vinovskis has discovered primary sources that shed much new light on the origins of Head Start. Given the importance of preschool education and the high stakes associated with the Head Start program, Vinovskis's book deserves to be read by a wide audience. He has produced an impressive piece of scholarship, a major contribution to the field."
— Barbara Beatty, author of Preschool Education in America
"Vinovskis's history of Head Start is a shining example of the importance of understanding the origins of social programs in order to provide a solid ground for future decision making. It shows that the conflict between comprehensive services and school readiness, a debate that is still raging today, has been a part of Head Start from the beginning. It is unlikely that there will ever be another study of the origins of Head Start that is as balanced, probing, and complete as this spectacular volume."
— Ron Haskins, The Brookings Institution
"Maris Vinovskis's study of Head Start is certain to affect debates about the future of the program. Vinovskis's careful and intelligent review of the intentions of Head Start's founders is a necessary starting point for anyone who hopes to understand the evolution of the program."
— Diane Ravitch, author of Left Back: A Century of Failed School Reforms