’This book is a collection of federal wisdom. Distinguished political scientists take the reader through the fascinating journey of federalism and its never-ending intellectual challenges. Federal studies unveil an odyssey of complexity and always have the potential to surprise: this book does it magnificently, honoring a great scholar. Worth reading!’ Francesco Palermo, Institute for Studies on Federalism and Regionalism, EURAC, Italy ’Understanding Federalism and Federation is a valuable collection of essays on critical contemporary questions for the theory and practice of federalism in the 21st century. The authors are leading scholars in the field of federal studies. The essays range widely over the federal-type systems of the world, offering a cornucopia of comparative federal experience, from which fresh insights can be drawn. The book is a fitting tribute to the work of Michael Burgess, one of the foremost theorists of federalism in recent decades.’ Cheryl Saunders, Melbourne Law School, Australia