Apparently, "the concept of play ... can no longer be the sole justification for monetary expenditures on public spaces for children." Play has become a science. Solomon strives to combine research with design to enable the construction of new playgrounds that will challenge the young. There are seven chapters, each covering "a different value that is missing in most playgrounds." Risk, mastery, friendship, and exploration are just a few topics and were selected based on successful foreign examples. The author delves into specifics. For example, in the US carpet is used to imply risk-free play, yet is expensive to maintain. Alternatives are wood chips or shredded tires. Overseas, play areas contain leftover materials such as tires to generate creative construction. Solomon also examines how Americans got into "this mess," where minimal maintenance and fences take precedence over play. Finally, she reaches higher and explores how physical activity affects brain function. The conclusion of the author's research is that playgrounds should be multigenerational and mesh with the surrounding environment. Peppered with color and black-and-white illustrations, this well-written, well-researched book is a much-needed inspiration for and to children. Summing Up: Recommended. All readership levels. --Lauren B. Allsopp, University of Oregon