Admission Matters by Springer, Reider and Franck

This is a well-written and informative book that covers all aspects of the college application process. It is worthwhile reading for anyone applying to a competitive college, and it should also be part of every guidance counselor's library.

The three Californian authors of Admission Matters--Sally P. Springer, Jon Reider, and Marion R. Franck--bring a wealth of expertise to the subject of college admissions through their various roles as high school counselors, college professors, college admissions readers, college administrators, professional writers, and members of NACAC (the National Association for College Admission Counseling).

The second edition of Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College is a remarkably useful tool for helping families understand all aspects of the college admissions process. The book covers a wide range of topics including choosing a college, selection criteria, standardized tests, extracurricular activities, application essays, and financial aid.

College applicants and their families shouldn't view Admission Matters as a stand-alone guide to admissions, for the book provides more breadth than depth. Many applicants will want to find further resources such as a college guidebook, a test prep book, and samples and tips for writing admission essays.

Nevertheless, this book is well worth the price. Admission Matters is clearly written with lots of helpful information and advice. Students and parents who read the book will find the whole competitive college admissions game far less daunting and mysterious.

Much of the book's information will be most relevant to high school seniors in the throes of the application process, but I would also highly recommend it for freshmen, sophomores and juniors so that they can make intelligent decisions about testing, extracurriculars and course selection.