This guide provides a critical assessment of 110 top colleges and universities to aid students and parents in selecting institutions that align with their academic and political values. The book evaluates schools based on the quality of instruction, academic standards, campus political atmosphere, and respect for the liberal arts tradition, with a particular focus on helping conservative families identify institutions that are not overly left-leaning, and vice-versa. Each entry offers detailed essays on the academic, political, and social climates, highlighting outstanding faculty, curricula, administrative policies on issues like free speech and sexual harassment, and the spectrum of student organizations.

This guide is presented as a reference for conservative parents and students seeking to evaluate college quality and campus atmosphere, particularly concerning political leanings. The introduction by William J. Bennett highlights its utility in identifying institutions with strong academic standards and a respect for the liberal arts tradition, while also noting its potential to assist those with different political viewpoints in finding suitable schools. The book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of academic, political, and social factors, supplemented by practical data such as tuition and enrollment figures.