Just finished writing a (rave) review on Amazon–thought this bit on its author might have general interest:
.. June Howard can discuss race, gender, and class while assuming a reader’s intelligent, sensible interest. Far too many academic authors treat these issues as if they were glowing chunks of kryptonite that might damage the morals of ignorant readers everywhere unless placated by an Author’s whimpering and trembling on our behalf.
The book is Publishing the Family by June Howard. To summarize my review: if you liked Louis Menand’s The Metaphysical Club, you will enjoy reading Publishing the Family.