"It is brilliant news that our ongoing campaigns about the need to strengthen local democracy has been recognised and supported by such an influential voice as Prof Wills. We would urge all to read this book regardless of who you are." Cllr Ken Browse, chair of the National Association of Local Councils "This book makes an important contribution to the emerging literature on localism and its implications for changing state-society relationships and the location of power and control." Urban Geography "Localism is now a highly influential discourse in contemporary English politics. Jane Wills goes beyond the burgeoning advocacy and commentary to provide a thorough-going and subtle analysis of its qualities. A vital read for scholars, policy-makers, practitioners and activists." John Tomaney, University College London