The Perfect Test
Thursday, March 17, 2011

UCLA author Ron Dietel provides a dramatic vision inside a future United States that has whole-heartedly embraced national tests. Following closely on the real-life acceptance of core academic standards by more than 40 states, Dietel's new book presents the lives of husband and wife researchers Grant and Jennifer Wilson, who develop what they believe are the perfect tests.

A soon-to-be released novel, The Perfect Test by UCLA author Ron Dietel, provides a dramatic vision inside a future United States that has whole-heartedly embraced national tests. Following closely on the real-life acceptance of core academic standards by more than 40 states, Dietel’s new book presents the lives of husband and wife researchers Grant and Jennifer Wilson, who develop what they believe are the perfect tests. The innovative high technology assessments spur U.S. achievement like no other educational reform. But one day Jennifer discovers a secret list of students who are exceptions to the consequences of the high-stakes test. So secret that someone is willing to kill for it.

The Perfect Test is in final publication stages by Sense Publishers. Dietel is donating all royalties to the Education Writers Association and Learning Matters, two important non-profit organizations serving K-12 education. Dietel will be attending the April 2011 EWA and AERA meetings in New Orleans.

 Early Praise for The Perfect Test

"A perfect test, a secret list…a murder. I haven't even gotten my review copy but I'm already excited about The Perfect Test, Ron Dietel's forthcoming school reform novel." Alexander Russo, This Week in Education

“Ready for a break, for a romp? Pick up Ronald Dietel’s The Perfect Test. It’s a dystopian vision of a world gone crazy, a science fiction portrait of the future that often comes wickedly close to where we are now.” John Merrow, President, Learning Matters

“I couldn’t put it down. At a moment of national testing madness, the story line was both fun and gripping.  And like all good mystery/science fiction, educational too.  I won’t give away the ending.” Deborah Meier, New York University

 rjdietel.wordpress.com • ron@ucla.edu