In an analysis offering lessons for US educational policy though such is not specifically treated, Hall (The Open U.) critiques British reforms of recent years with an emphasis on primary and literacy education. She examines the workings of UK agencies overseeing education, especially the Office of Standards in Education; empirical studies; and issues for a new agenda. Concluding that national reform approaches have largely been part of the problem rather than the solution, the author concurs with suggestions to de- emphasize benchmarks, curriculum packages, and economics, and place more trust in teachers as professionals. Annotation 2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR