The American Dream has long been a dominant theme in U.S. culture, one with enduring significance, but these are difficult times for dreamers. The editors of and contributors to The American Dream in the 21st Century examine the American Dream historically, socially, and economically and consider its intersection with politics, religion, race, gender, and generation.

The conclusions presented in this short, readable volume provide both optimism for the faith that most Americans have in the possibility of achieving the American Dream and a realistic assessment of the cracks in the dream. The last presidential election offered hope, but the experts here warn about the need for better programs and policies that could make the dream a reality for a larger number of Americans.

Sandra L. Hanson is Professor of Sociology and Research Associate at the Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies at the Catholic University of America. She is the author of Lost Talent: Women in the Sciences and Swimming Against the Tide: African American Girls and Science Education (both Temple).

John Kenneth White is Professor of Politics at the Catholic University of America and is the author of several books on American politics. His latest is Barack Obama's America: How New Conceptions of Race, Family, and Religion Ended the Reagan Era.