Whether you are a Republican, Democrat, or independent, conservative, liberal, or moderate, education is a top priority. But while Americans of all stripes rank education as a top priority, we rank at the bottom of international comparisons and academic achievement. How's that possible? Holding Children Hostage tells the gripping, insider's story of how unions stop reform, hinder successful teachers, shackle children to an unjust status quo, and then profit from political activism and bureaucratic inertia. But more than a much-needed expose of union politicking and corruption, Former Bush Administration Secretary of Education Rod Paige also explains how parents, teachers, school boards, and local businesses can work shoulder- to-shoulder for reform to build a better education system for our children and the future of America.