Children bring joy, wonderment, and the need to explore into school. Teachers enter their practice with rich ideas about instruction, a passion for their subject matter, and a commitment to guiding students toward lifelong learning. Messious book explores the alchemy of these relationships. It is in the practice of learning that students come to understand that how designs for learning can propel them to persevere and thrive.
In this book, Messiou delves into the dynamics that emerge as teachers adapt to their students diverse needs. In turn, students guide their teachers in charting new, meaningful learning journeys. The stories within this volume weave subject content with creativity, engaging entry points, emotional encouragement, and the collaborative spirit of learning together.
By placing experimentation and collaboration in the hands of both teachers and students, Messiou emphasizes that inclusive learning is not something delivered but co-constructed. A compelling read, it speaks to educators, researchers, and families who understand that inclusive communities grow through connection and curiosity.
- Elizabeth B. Kozleski, Stanford University
This is a must-read for anyone concerned with inclusion and equity in education. Kyriaki (Kiki) Messiou places students voices and participation in the centre of developing inclusive pedagogies in schools. The book offers grounded, principled approaches and avoids rigid blueprints and roadmaps for practice, policy and research. Inspirational and a timely compass for inclusive journeys in schools and for more democratic and inclusive societies.
- Dolf van Veen, Netherlands Centre on Education and Youth Care
Imagine. Listen. Act. Inquire. Include. In this engaging, challenging and readable book, Kiki Messiou takes us on the journeys of students, teachers, teacher educators and researchers learning together about the many ways that inclusive education can be the reality for previously marginalised children, young people and their families. This is essential reading for all of us working to build more inclusive schools and education systems.
- Missy Morton, University of Auckland
This is an outstanding contribution to the project of inclusion in education. Echoing Gramscis observation this book brings the pessimism of the intellect and the optimism of will to the table through inclusive inquiry. It is my considered view that this book is required reading for those interested in reconceptualising schooling so that all children and young people get a fair deal and an education to reclaim the right to representation, inclusion and success.
- Roger Slee, University of Leeds
