A superb comprehensive reading of the social, intellectual, and political history of community organizing in the U.S. The clear and engaging account of the central guiding ideas from Alinsky to Ganz, plus outlining possibilities for the future, makes for very worthwhile and enjoyable reading. It lays out basic concepts and elements of community organizing while at the same time offering ... Read morereal on-the-ground stories of real people who did real things in relation to creating social change. Susan A. Ostrander, Tufts University Community Organizing is actually three books in one: a scholarly analysis of the key components of successful movements for social change, drawing on the most important thinkers and theories from the past and present; a compendium of contemporary case studies of grassroots organizing efforts on a wide range of issues; and a “how to” manual for activists who want to apply these lessons in the real world. Walls’ book is accessible, well-written, and up-to-date. People who teach and practice community organizing will want this book on their shelves. Peter Dreier, Occidental College Show Less