The empowerment of people through knowledge is the principal theme of this book. The Indian state of Kerala is well known for its remarkable social achievements, including almost universal literacy, controlling population growth, and effective food distribution and health-care systems. These successes are due in large part to the efforts of voluntary development groups. Among the most prominent is the Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad (KSSP).

This book - the first comprehensive study of the KSSP - examines its genesis, methods, strengths and weaknesses.

The KSSP opposes injustice and oppression, and one of its chosen methods is to promote scientific and cultural literacy. Its Science and Culture Festivals have played a remarkable role in dispelling fatalistic attitudes among villagers, deepening their understanding of environmental issues and generally empowering the poor. The KSSP has also engaged in various practical development activities as well as taking the lead in opposing those government policies that adversely affect the poor.

The authors argue that the KSSP's experience offers many lessons to other voluntary movements on how to encourage those without political or economic power to become active participants in matters that affect them.