This evidence-based practical guide lives up to its title. Eight comprehensive chapters cover topics including childhood deafness and the associated risks; behavioral and emotional disorders; self-esteem; learning difficulties; communication disorders; tinnitus and professional issues.

Each chapter is comprehensive and concisely written covering a wide range of issues.

As a deaf psychologist working with deaf children and adults, I find the writers acknowledge that the field of deafness is fraught with controversial issues. A vast amount of information is provided and the issues have been dealt with in a matter-of-fact manner. For example non-verbal communication (sign language) and spoken language are referred to in three chapters.

Unfortunately, these significant chapters did not cover in greater depth issues in communication and deafness. When describing deafness professionals need to be equipped with a good idea of the issues surrounding communication: sign language and oralism. So important are these issues for the deaf child that his or her self-esteem, identity and psychological wellbeing can be affected if meaningful communication has not been established.

Although the book does not demonstrate possible relationships between the different subjects, the information is particularly good for those interested in working with this deprived group of children.