Catherine Burke's 'The School,' a compelling volume within the 'History of Things' series, meticulously explores the complex evolution of educational institutions. This insightful book delves into how schools, from ancient academies to modern classrooms, have shaped societies, transmitted knowledge, and reflected cultural values across diverse historical periods. Burke examines the tangible and intangible 'things' associated with schooling—from architecture and teaching methods to curriculum and social roles—offering a profound understanding of their enduring impact on human development. It's an indispensable read for anyone interested in the sociology of education, historical pedagogy, or the silent influence of institutions on our collective past and future.