Extramural: Literature and Lifelong Learning is an account of the authors time teaching literature at the University of Cambridge Institute of Continued Education. Extramural makes the case that adult education is of continued relevance despite increasing marginalisation and closure. The Institute's founder, James Stuart, had a bold and idealistic vision of broadening education from the elite confines of the Oxbridge colleges to all of society, envisaging a community of adult learners.

Specialising in Literature, the author has built a career on this radical principle, taking up the founders mantle of acting as a guide and mentor to all those hungry for knowledge and further an understanding of literature. Extramural is more than a personal account of a career in education, but an argument for an idea. The core of Extramural is an argument for the lifelong pursuit of knowledge and the invaluable part ICE has played in this.

A stimulating and engaging exploration of the world of adult literary education, Extramural offers the reader the chance to gain an insight into a world that depends on the support of those participating.

Formerly an active blogger on ICE's website, you can now find Adrian Barlow's blog at http://adrianbarlowsblog.blogspot.co.uk/