Indeed, this book examines hundreds of successful programs, ideas that have worked in the real world -- and in a very tough real world, at that -- such as the Turner Middle School in Philadelphia, a model of the "university assisted" community school. Dryfoos also studies the new trend toward full -- service schools, programs that make the school the hub of the community, serving as enrichment centers and neighborhood safe-havens. She evaluates programs that try to cope with sex, drugs, and violence -- revealing which ones work and what aspects of these programs are most effective -- and also dissects programs that have failed, like the highly touted drug program called DARE. Her sharp and eloquent study concludes with a passionate call for action, outlining what must be done if our young people are to be assured a safe passage to the future.