This book considers the work of projects under the auspices of Barnardo's and the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, and in particular highlights the writings of 24 children and adults.

The title alone is a wonderful challenge to the reader, but alsoillustrates its aim - interpretation. After reading each piece ofcreative writing, I was left wondering about the person behind it,considering their world and how they survived. That said, I found it adifficult read. I could not decide if this was because of its context,its structure, the myriad of stories and feelings expressed, or, in somecases, if the unsaid parts of the story affected me greatly. I decidedto step away and approach the book in a different manner. This meant Idipped in and out dependent on the attraction of the sub headings andindex provided.

The various writings in which these individuals were able to voice theirexperiences demonstrate the creativity of the group facilitators and thecontributors themselves.

Life story work is very different to "life stories", the former being anin-depth therapeutic journey incorporating the stories of others and thelatter a series of personal, intuitive snapshots of feelings andexpression.

Chapter 11 is based around activities and handouts, which are identifiedas permissible to copy and use in direct work with a group of adult"victims".

The editors consider the advantages and the possible pitfalls of usingcertain techniques; I share some of these concerns if used withoutappropriate support networks. They could, however, be very useful intraining facilitators and direct workers. Some of the exercises would beuseful to explore and to learn safe practice, others may prove moresensitive. In essence, that is the great thing about this text; it willnot please all of the people all of the time, but will certainly pleasesome of the people some of the time.

Can You Read Me? Well, if you work with projects engaging people hurt bylife events, you should.

- Reviewed by Richard Rose, assistant director, practice development andtraining at SACCS, with responsibility for life story work.

Can You Read Me? Creative Writing With Child and Adult Victims of AbuseEdited by Jacki Pritchard and Eric SainsburyPublished by Jessica Kingsley PublishersISBN 1843101920229pp15.95