Charles A. McMurry's 'Special Method in the Reading of Complete English Classics' offers an insightful pedagogical approach to integrating classic English literature into common school grade curriculums. McMurry, with surgical precision, dissects the immense value hidden within classic texts and presents a methodical framework for educators to imbue young minds with the rich literary heritage. Though set within the context of its time, the book's stylistic exploration and intellectual rigor provide timeless relevance. It is a work that not only reflects the educational philosophy of the late 19th and early 20th centuries but also endorses the perennial significance of classical literature in modern education.The esteemed author, Charles A. McMurry, was a prominent figure in the educational reform movements of his time. His vast experience as a teacher and a scholar at various eminent institutions equipped him with the insights necessary to devise the Special Method. This book is the culmination of McMurry's lifelong dedication to education and his belief in the transformative power of reading classical texts. It is a legacy of his commitment to developing thoughtful, culturally enriched students.For educators, scholars of education, and lovers of classical literature, 'Special Method in the Reading of Complete English Classics' is more than a didactic manual; it is a call to action. It offers a compelling case for the deliberate, structured exploration of English classics within the school curriculum, promising intellectual growth and a richer educational experience. McMurry's work is a beacon guiding teachers towards a profound engagement with literature, ensuring its enduring place in the formation of young minds and the cultivation of a literate society.

Charles Alexander McMurry (1857-1929) was an educationalist and pioneer in the development of curriculum and methods for teacher education. He was closely associated with the influential Normal School movement in the United States, particularly known for his tenure at the Northern Illinois Normal School. McMurry's pedagogical theories were innovative for his time, stressing the importance of using complete literary works as opposed to extracts in the classroom. His seminal work, 'Special Method in the Reading of Complete English Classics,' delves into the practice of teaching literature by encouraging the longitudinal study of a single author or text to provide deeper understanding and literary appreciation among students. His literary style is marked by clarity and a straightforward approach to educational theory, aligning with the pragmatic educational reforms of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Academics and educators cite McMurry's contributions to the practice of English teaching and teacher training as foundational to modern methods. His body of work reflects his dedication to improving education and his belief in the transformative power of literature to cultivate a thinking and empathetic citizenry.