In this article author Prairie Boulmier writes that Paul Tough, author of "How Children Succeed," has emerged as a visible and respected voice on education reform and research in the U.S. Boulmier describes "How Children Succeed" and its focus on an increasing knowledge base that supports so-called "noncognitive" skill development in children--including traits like curiosity, self-control, and character--and programs such as Tools of the Mind and the KIPP character education program. Boulmier points out that although Tough admits he has not yet seen the perfect solution, he still offers a challenging view of what education reform could look like if schools cared more about noncognitive skills. "How Children Succeed" (2012) is described as a compelling overview of decades of research, looking deeply into programs, teachers, mentors, and students who are challenging the American view of education. The hope that the focus in education appears to be shifting toward emotional regulation, executive functioning, and character traits should be encouraging to those involved in the Montessori movement.