This collection of papers focuses on both theory and practice of self-directed learning, including a focus on self-assessment and the triggers and prompts to sustain learning. The book contains contributions from colleagues in the US and Africa. A rich, insightful and sometimes demanding collection is very substantial (300+ pages). The materials range from work in schools, teacher education to work in higher education. There are detailed empirical studies as well as theoretical explorations. There is an especially helpful chapter by Jako Oliver of North-West University (South Africa) on “panic pedagogy” (Chapter 3) and another on the learning environment by Charlene du Yoit-Brits (Chapter 2) who also contributes to the introductory chapter on ubuntu (the self as collective and collaborative being – “I am because we are”) from the same institution which add a great deal to this book. Well worth reading. Available for free download at https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/catalog/book/279