'This is an exceptionally well argued and student-friendly book. It brings out core issues, and adds important new interpretive perspectives.' - Dr Steven King, Oxford Brookes University 'Excellent, readable survey of debates and literature.' - Michael Winstanley, Lancaster University 'A very good concise introduction to the sources, historiography and outstanding issues.' - Dr Jane Humphries, All Souls College, University of Oxford 'The book is aimed at both teachers and students, and no one can fail to learn much from it; Kirby is abreast of the most recent literature and research.' - Hugh Cunningham, The English Historical Review 'The book is to be recommended as a well-informed and wide-ranging introduction to its subject.' - Colin Heywood, Economic History Review 'A succinct summary of current thinking on the child labour issue during such a crucial period in Britain's industrial development.' - Pamela Horn, History of Education 'I would recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the subject, especially those seeking an easily digestible introduction to the topic.' - Andrew Gritt, Local Population Studies