Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant book readable & understandable., 24 Mar 2007
I am a social work student in my first year and stuggle with some academic books. This book is informative and interesting - I used it for my essays. It is well written and easy to understand. I thoroughly recommend it to future students.

Excellent, informative ,easy to read and worth the money, 23 Oct 2001
An excellent pre study book for the Open University Working with Young Children and Families course. This book was easy to read and provided a font of knowledge which could be used in OU assignments. It was fairly priced and I would recommend others to buy it. The contents were informative and presented in such a way that subject matters were quickly digested and understood. I recommend it to all.

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant book readable & understandable., 24 Mar 2007
I am a social work student in my first year and stuggle with some academic books. This book is informative and interesting - I used it for my essays. It is well written and easy to understand. I thoroughly recommend it to future students.

Excellent, informative ,easy to read and worth the money, 23 Oct 2001
An excellent pre study book for the Open University Working with Young Children and Families course. This book was easy to read and provided a font of knowledge which could be used in OU assignments. It was fairly priced and I would recommend others to buy it. The contents were informative and presented in such a way that subject matters were quickly digested and understood. I recommend it to all.

another thought provoking book................, 10 Sep 2008
the third book by Cathy Glass is as moving as the last two volumes. Cathy writes well without being over the top as so many of the "misery memoirs" can be. Cathy paints a picture of her very ordinary family (and I mean that as a compliment, not an insult) trying their best to give Dawn the best life they can. It is to be hoped that the social services do a better job now than they did 25 years ago. Without wishing to spoil the story for others their deliberate withholding of the facts about Dawn's upbringing could have been extremely damaging to the Glass family. The only thing that didn't ring true in fact was Cathys ( and also her husbands) reaction to those revelations........... I would have made an official complaint at least but I suppose that it would have stopped them fostering any more children.

It is also very interesting to learn about Cathys own life - maybe the next book will reveal more about her childrens early life.

Another excellent book , 21 Aug 2008
Another moving story from Cathy Glass. Once started I found it difficult to put the book down and was soon gripped by the story. As in her other two excellent books, the authors warmth and affection to her foster children comes through in her style of writing and makes her books very moving and also very readable. I found I just had to finish the book as soon as possible to find out how the story unfolds. The book is not just an eye opener on what terrible things can happen to innocent children and the struggles and difficulties they face as a result, but also shows how a truly caring person can help them and can make a real difference in their lives. Well done Cathy for another inspiring book.

Cut...Cathy Glass, 20 Aug 2008
A third amazing book from Cathy Glass that gives a complete insight into fostering, it's pitfalls and rewards. This book is well written and very moving. It highlights a system now improved thankfully and shows how much love and patience foster kids need to thrive. Well done Cathy for being there and a huge thanks for sharing your experiences. Can't wait for the next one, am stocking up on tissues.....

Another triumph for Cathy Glass, 10 Aug 2008
Cut was another amazing story and again shows how perseverance and care go a long way. Cathy teaches us a lot about children's experiences and how they cope and, of course, how the foster carer can help them.

Another amazing book, 07 Aug 2008
Cathy's books got me reading again, and having read her two other books, I had this on order. Her books get better and better. Again I couldn't put this down. Well done! Can't wait for the next one.

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant book readable & understandable., 24 Mar 2007
I am a social work student in my first year and stuggle with some academic books. This book is informative and interesting - I used it for my essays. It is well written and easy to understand. I thoroughly recommend it to future students.

Excellent, informative ,easy to read and worth the money, 23 Oct 2001
An excellent pre study book for the Open University Working with Young Children and Families course. This book was easy to read and provided a font of knowledge which could be used in OU assignments. It was fairly priced and I would recommend others to buy it. The contents were informative and presented in such a way that subject matters were quickly digested and understood. I recommend it to all.

another thought provoking book................, 10 Sep 2008
the third book by Cathy Glass is as moving as the last two volumes. Cathy writes well without being over the top as so many of the "misery memoirs" can be. Cathy paints a picture of her very ordinary family (and I mean that as a compliment, not an insult) trying their best to give Dawn the best life they can. It is to be hoped that the social services do a better job now than they did 25 years ago. Without wishing to spoil the story for others their deliberate withholding of the facts about Dawn's upbringing could have been extremely damaging to the Glass family. The only thing that didn't ring true in fact was Cathys ( and also her husbands) reaction to those revelations........... I would have made an official complaint at least but I suppose that it would have stopped them fostering any more children.

It is also very interesting to learn about Cathys own life - maybe the next book will reveal more about her childrens early life.

Another excellent book , 21 Aug 2008
Another moving story from Cathy Glass. Once started I found it difficult to put the book down and was soon gripped by the story. As in her other two excellent books, the authors warmth and affection to her foster children comes through in her style of writing and makes her books very moving and also very readable. I found I just had to finish the book as soon as possible to find out how the story unfolds. The book is not just an eye opener on what terrible things can happen to innocent children and the struggles and difficulties they face as a result, but also shows how a truly caring person can help them and can make a real difference in their lives. Well done Cathy for another inspiring book.

Cut...Cathy Glass, 20 Aug 2008
A third amazing book from Cathy Glass that gives a complete insight into fostering, it's pitfalls and rewards. This book is well written and very moving. It highlights a system now improved thankfully and shows how much love and patience foster kids need to thrive. Well done Cathy for being there and a huge thanks for sharing your experiences. Can't wait for the next one, am stocking up on tissues.....

Another triumph for Cathy Glass, 10 Aug 2008
Cut was another amazing story and again shows how perseverance and care go a long way. Cathy teaches us a lot about children's experiences and how they cope and, of course, how the foster carer can help them.

Another amazing book, 07 Aug 2008
Cathy's books got me reading again, and having read her two other books, I had this on order. Her books get better and better. Again I couldn't put this down. Well done! Can't wait for the next one.

fantastic, 28 Jul 2008
i really enjoyed reading this book, which may sound odd but Cathy Glass has a way of making you feel as though you are there and it is a real page turner to see what happens next really well written i am a real fan of Cathy's and can't wait for her next book Cut as i have also read hidden again a fantastically written page turner.

I wanted to put it down but couldn't..., 18 Jul 2008
I read this book in a day, it was such a compelling but horrific story. This book really did open my eyes to the depravity of some people. My heart broke for poor Jodie, a child whose life was destroyed by people who should have been loving and caring for her. This book has disturbed me deeply.

Damaged, 15 Jul 2008
Such a heartbreaking story and not for the faint hearted. The story goes into horrific detail of what this poor little girl endured and how the social services and foster parents before Cathy also let her down. I read this book in less that a day, I could not put it down. Have your tissues at the ready

DISTURBINGLY EXPLICIT DESCIPTION OF ABUSE, 19 Jun 2008
It was impossible to put the book down and I read it in a few hours. The book incites very strong emotions ranging from anger, despair, sadness, frustration & revulsion to utter disbelief at the depravity of some human beings, the serious incompetence of the social services in this case and complete admiration for Cathy, the foster carer and her family. Defnitely worth reading but there should be a warning regarding the explicitness of the abuse.

One of the most unique memoirs yet, 27 Apr 2008
I've read a fair amount of memoirs, there's a lot about now. But this is the first book i have felt compelled to write about, i finished this book in 2 days!!
This book is different in the way that it's written and the angle for which it's written. It is captivating, heartbreaking, and so insightful it would either convince you to become a foster carer or put you off for life.
A truly insperational book, not only for the victim but also for those who truly cared about her.

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant book readable & understandable., 24 Mar 2007
I am a social work student in my first year and stuggle with some academic books. This book is informative and interesting - I used it for my essays. It is well written and easy to understand. I thoroughly recommend it to future students.

Excellent, informative ,easy to read and worth the money, 23 Oct 2001
An excellent pre study book for the Open University Working with Young Children and Families course. This book was easy to read and provided a font of knowledge which could be used in OU assignments. It was fairly priced and I would recommend others to buy it. The contents were informative and presented in such a way that subject matters were quickly digested and understood. I recommend it to all.

another thought provoking book................, 10 Sep 2008
the third book by Cathy Glass is as moving as the last two volumes. Cathy writes well without being over the top as so many of the "misery memoirs" can be. Cathy paints a picture of her very ordinary family (and I mean that as a compliment, not an insult) trying their best to give Dawn the best life they can. It is to be hoped that the social services do a better job now than they did 25 years ago. Without wishing to spoil the story for others their deliberate withholding of the facts about Dawn's upbringing could have been extremely damaging to the Glass family. The only thing that didn't ring true in fact was Cathys ( and also her husbands) reaction to those revelations........... I would have made an official complaint at least but I suppose that it would have stopped them fostering any more children.

It is also very interesting to learn about Cathys own life - maybe the next book will reveal more about her childrens early life.

Another excellent book , 21 Aug 2008
Another moving story from Cathy Glass. Once started I found it difficult to put the book down and was soon gripped by the story. As in her other two excellent books, the authors warmth and affection to her foster children comes through in her style of writing and makes her books very moving and also very readable. I found I just had to finish the book as soon as possible to find out how the story unfolds. The book is not just an eye opener on what terrible things can happen to innocent children and the struggles and difficulties they face as a result, but also shows how a truly caring person can help them and can make a real difference in their lives. Well done Cathy for another inspiring book.

Cut...Cathy Glass, 20 Aug 2008
A third amazing book from Cathy Glass that gives a complete insight into fostering, it's pitfalls and rewards. This book is well written and very moving. It highlights a system now improved thankfully and shows how much love and patience foster kids need to thrive. Well done Cathy for being there and a huge thanks for sharing your experiences. Can't wait for the next one, am stocking up on tissues.....

Another triumph for Cathy Glass, 10 Aug 2008
Cut was another amazing story and again shows how perseverance and care go a long way. Cathy teaches us a lot about children's experiences and how they cope and, of course, how the foster carer can help them.

Another amazing book, 07 Aug 2008
Cathy's books got me reading again, and having read her two other books, I had this on order. Her books get better and better. Again I couldn't put this down. Well done! Can't wait for the next one.

fantastic, 28 Jul 2008
i really enjoyed reading this book, which may sound odd but Cathy Glass has a way of making you feel as though you are there and it is a real page turner to see what happens next really well written i am a real fan of Cathy's and can't wait for her next book Cut as i have also read hidden again a fantastically written page turner.

I wanted to put it down but couldn't..., 18 Jul 2008
I read this book in a day, it was such a compelling but horrific story. This book really did open my eyes to the depravity of some people. My heart broke for poor Jodie, a child whose life was destroyed by people who should have been loving and caring for her. This book has disturbed me deeply.

Damaged, 15 Jul 2008
Such a heartbreaking story and not for the faint hearted. The story goes into horrific detail of what this poor little girl endured and how the social services and foster parents before Cathy also let her down. I read this book in less that a day, I could not put it down. Have your tissues at the ready

DISTURBINGLY EXPLICIT DESCIPTION OF ABUSE, 19 Jun 2008
It was impossible to put the book down and I read it in a few hours. The book incites very strong emotions ranging from anger, despair, sadness, frustration & revulsion to utter disbelief at the depravity of some human beings, the serious incompetence of the social services in this case and complete admiration for Cathy, the foster carer and her family. Defnitely worth reading but there should be a warning regarding the explicitness of the abuse.

One of the most unique memoirs yet, 27 Apr 2008
I've read a fair amount of memoirs, there's a lot about now. But this is the first book i have felt compelled to write about, i finished this book in 2 days!!
This book is different in the way that it's written and the angle for which it's written. It is captivating, heartbreaking, and so insightful it would either convince you to become a foster carer or put you off for life.
A truly insperational book, not only for the victim but also for those who truly cared about her.

unbelievable strength, 27 Aug 2008
In a world filled with crime and death, war and poverty, many seek the salvation of religion to overcome.
We hear many stories about cults in America, stories of teenagers leaving then people they love to stay in communes where they are brainwashed, humiliated, abused and used.
This is the true accounts of three sisters who had no choice but to be born into one of these cults, the children of god.
From a very early age these poor children were systematically abused physically and mentally by the adult members of the group.
How these girls triumphed over these sick people astounds me and I congratulate them and hope that their lives are not tainted by these evil people.
This cult is still going and the story of these girls is a warning to us all. This is not easy reading but it is a book one must read.

Disturbing but Courageous, 26 Aug 2008
It is never pleasant to read some disturbing experiences that these young lady's have gone through. I kept questioning myself on why I was reading what I was. My wife, Mother in Law & sister in law all read this book & found it disturbing. The only reason I could find as to why I wanted to read such a book, was in the hope that the 3 lady's were now back together & leading 'normal' lives.

If you are planning to purchase this book, the details, I found, are very explicit. However, the truth has to be known & the truth definitely comes out in this book. Yes I feel extremely sorry for these young lady's knowing that while I was growing up, there were people suffering like they did. These young lady's are very brave. Brave to that fact of making it known the disgusting things these so-called 'adults' put them through & then these 'adults' trying to justify their crimes through the word of the lord.

I can only wish Kristina, Celeste & Juliana well, & congratulate them on their brave fight & wish them well in their continued fight to expose organisations such as the 'Children of God'.

This is a very good, well written, but painful book. The 3 lady's courage can be found to be inspirational & a lesson to us all.

disturbing, 27 Jun 2008
I didn't think I could finish this book. It really effected me that so much evil could still exist in the name of a God that despises child abuse.
The three sisters were very brave to allow this book to go to print and tell the truth. The sad thing is that I believe I met some of the group on a trip to Portugal many years ago, without realising the full extent of the cult's beliefs. I can still see the face of the small little girl who was performing for us...

absolutely fantastic, 27 May 2008
this was the most moving, upsetting, yet amusing at times, book i have read in a very long time. These women are a total inspiration to me and I thank them for sharing thier story with us. I am familiar with the CoG and was interested to read what it was really like from the inside. A gripping and compelling story that was uncomfortable at times but well worth reading.

Truly Wow, 07 May 2008
I chose this book for some reason, from the army of others like these which are on the shelves at them moment. Not knowing anything about the 'CoG' or 'The Family' as I lived in South Africa, and don't think they had much or any contact there. On reading these very well written, and compelling life stories by three amazing woman, I can not help but be thankful for the up bringing I had.
I am truly relieved that they have been able to survive their past, and help others and each other. You girls deserve all the happiness that life can bring.
Thank you for your inspiring lives, and sharing it with us!!!
To those in the Family who reject what these woman say, God will have the final say!

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant book readable & understandable., 24 Mar 2007
I am a social work student in my first year and stuggle with some academic books. This book is informative and interesting - I used it for my essays. It is well written and easy to understand. I thoroughly recommend it to future students.

Excellent, informative ,easy to read and worth the money, 23 Oct 2001
An excellent pre study book for the Open University Working with Young Children and Families course. This book was easy to read and provided a font of knowledge which could be used in OU assignments. It was fairly priced and I would recommend others to buy it. The contents were informative and presented in such a way that subject matters were quickly digested and understood. I recommend it to all.

another thought provoking book................, 10 Sep 2008
the third book by Cathy Glass is as moving as the last two volumes. Cathy writes well without being over the top as so many of the "misery memoirs" can be. Cathy paints a picture of her very ordinary family (and I mean that as a compliment, not an insult) trying their best to give Dawn the best life they can. It is to be hoped that the social services do a better job now than they did 25 years ago. Without wishing to spoil the story for others their deliberate withholding of the facts about Dawn's upbringing could have been extremely damaging to the Glass family. The only thing that didn't ring true in fact was Cathys ( and also her husbands) reaction to those revelations........... I would have made an official complaint at least but I suppose that it would have stopped them fostering any more children.

It is also very interesting to learn about Cathys own life - maybe the next book will reveal more about her childrens early life.

Another excellent book , 21 Aug 2008
Another moving story from Cathy Glass. Once started I found it difficult to put the book down and was soon gripped by the story. As in her other two excellent books, the authors warmth and affection to her foster children comes through in her style of writing and makes her books very moving and also very readable. I found I just had to finish the book as soon as possible to find out how the story unfolds. The book is not just an eye opener on what terrible things can happen to innocent children and the struggles and difficulties they face as a result, but also shows how a truly caring person can help them and can make a real difference in their lives. Well done Cathy for another inspiring book.

Cut...Cathy Glass, 20 Aug 2008
A third amazing book from Cathy Glass that gives a complete insight into fostering, it's pitfalls and rewards. This book is well written and very moving. It highlights a system now improved thankfully and shows how much love and patience foster kids need to thrive. Well done Cathy for being there and a huge thanks for sharing your experiences. Can't wait for the next one, am stocking up on tissues.....

Another triumph for Cathy Glass, 10 Aug 2008
Cut was another amazing story and again shows how perseverance and care go a long way. Cathy teaches us a lot about children's experiences and how they cope and, of course, how the foster carer can help them.

Another amazing book, 07 Aug 2008
Cathy's books got me reading again, and having read her two other books, I had this on order. Her books get better and better. Again I couldn't put this down. Well done! Can't wait for the next one.

fantastic, 28 Jul 2008
i really enjoyed reading this book, which may sound odd but Cathy Glass has a way of making you feel as though you are there and it is a real page turner to see what happens next really well written i am a real fan of Cathy's and can't wait for her next book Cut as i have also read hidden again a fantastically written page turner.

I wanted to put it down but couldn't..., 18 Jul 2008
I read this book in a day, it was such a compelling but horrific story. This book really did open my eyes to the depravity of some people. My heart broke for poor Jodie, a child whose life was destroyed by people who should have been loving and caring for her. This book has disturbed me deeply.

Damaged, 15 Jul 2008
Such a heartbreaking story and not for the faint hearted. The story goes into horrific detail of what this poor little girl endured and how the social services and foster parents before Cathy also let her down. I read this book in less that a day, I could not put it down. Have your tissues at the ready

DISTURBINGLY EXPLICIT DESCIPTION OF ABUSE, 19 Jun 2008
It was impossible to put the book down and I read it in a few hours. The book incites very strong emotions ranging from anger, despair, sadness, frustration & revulsion to utter disbelief at the depravity of some human beings, the serious incompetence of the social services in this case and complete admiration for Cathy, the foster carer and her family. Defnitely worth reading but there should be a warning regarding the explicitness of the abuse.

One of the most unique memoirs yet, 27 Apr 2008
I've read a fair amount of memoirs, there's a lot about now. But this is the first book i have felt compelled to write about, i finished this book in 2 days!!
This book is different in the way that it's written and the angle for which it's written. It is captivating, heartbreaking, and so insightful it would either convince you to become a foster carer or put you off for life.
A truly insperational book, not only for the victim but also for those who truly cared about her.

unbelievable strength, 27 Aug 2008
In a world filled with crime and death, war and poverty, many seek the salvation of religion to overcome.
We hear many stories about cults in America, stories of teenagers leaving then people they love to stay in communes where they are brainwashed, humiliated, abused and used.
This is the true accounts of three sisters who had no choice but to be born into one of these cults, the children of god.
From a very early age these poor children were systematically abused physically and mentally by the adult members of the group.
How these girls triumphed over these sick people astounds me and I congratulate them and hope that their lives are not tainted by these evil people.
This cult is still going and the story of these girls is a warning to us all. This is not easy reading but it is a book one must read.

Disturbing but Courageous, 26 Aug 2008
It is never pleasant to read some disturbing experiences that these young lady's have gone through. I kept questioning myself on why I was reading what I was. My wife, Mother in Law & sister in law all read this book & found it disturbing. The only reason I could find as to why I wanted to read such a book, was in the hope that the 3 lady's were now back together & leading 'normal' lives.

If you are planning to purchase this book, the details, I found, are very explicit. However, the truth has to be known & the truth definitely comes out in this book. Yes I feel extremely sorry for these young lady's knowing that while I was growing up, there were people suffering like they did. These young lady's are very brave. Brave to that fact of making it known the disgusting things these so-called 'adults' put them through & then these 'adults' trying to justify their crimes through the word of the lord.

I can only wish Kristina, Celeste & Juliana well, & congratulate them on their brave fight & wish them well in their continued fight to expose organisations such as the 'Children of God'.

This is a very good, well written, but painful book. The 3 lady's courage can be found to be inspirational & a lesson to us all.

disturbing, 27 Jun 2008
I didn't think I could finish this book. It really effected me that so much evil could still exist in the name of a God that despises child abuse.
The three sisters were very brave to allow this book to go to print and tell the truth. The sad thing is that I believe I met some of the group on a trip to Portugal many years ago, without realising the full extent of the cult's beliefs. I can still see the face of the small little girl who was performing for us...

absolutely fantastic, 27 May 2008
this was the most moving, upsetting, yet amusing at times, book i have read in a very long time. These women are a total inspiration to me and I thank them for sharing thier story with us. I am familiar with the CoG and was interested to read what it was really like from the inside. A gripping and compelling story that was uncomfortable at times but well worth reading.

Truly Wow, 07 May 2008
I chose this book for some reason, from the army of others like these which are on the shelves at them moment. Not knowing anything about the 'CoG' or 'The Family' as I lived in South Africa, and don't think they had much or any contact there. On reading these very well written, and compelling life stories by three amazing woman, I can not help but be thankful for the up bringing I had.
I am truly relieved that they have been able to survive their past, and help others and each other. You girls deserve all the happiness that life can bring.
Thank you for your inspiring lives, and sharing it with us!!!
To those in the Family who reject what these woman say, God will have the final say!


Shocked & Saddened, 16 Dec 2008
This is author Toni Maguires true story of her harrowing childhood in Belfast in the 1950's, at the hands of a sexually abusive father.
It runs along side of the story of her sitting in a nursing home as an adult, with her terminally ill mother. As she keeps her vigil, her memories come back to her and she begins to tell her story of her childhood. This is not a story of neglect in a material sense as is usually the case, but a fairly average childhood in all other respects, interspersed with horrendous sexual abuse. As we find out, the damage caused lasts a lifetime for Toni.
This is another book I couldn't put down until finished. How a parent can do such things to a child is totally beyond my belief! It highlights the fact that so many families can hide such hideous secrets behind a cover of "normality" and "respectability".
Well worth a read.
Don't Tell Mummy: A True Story of the Ultimate Betrayal

In Brief, 30 May 2008
This book is beautifully written and I was desperate to read Toni's sequel as I needed to find out if she ever did manage to get answers from her mother or a resolution over her father's actions.

The book is damning indigtment of the Northern Irish Protestant family that ostracised her for "shaming" her father by reporting the abuse when he had made her pregnant.

A step above many of the Memoirs of misery that currently flood the market.

I hope this book enables others to face the fear and speak out for themselves, or helps others to not keep secrets when they KNOW other family members or friends are being abused.

I applaud Toni Maguire, she is an inspiration.


HEARTBREAKING., 23 Mar 2008
I felt so sorry for this little girl as she struggled to cope with things she was too young to understand. Her father was an absolute monster, but it was the behaviour of her mother that i found the hardest to understand. Some women simply refuse to believe what is there right in front of their eyes - and only they know why....

Both Very Addictive and Very Disturbing, 16 Feb 2008
I couldn't put this book down. It is suberbly written. I will never ever understand how anyone can hurt a child, especially their own flesh and blood. Toni has been through so much at the hands of her evil father. I find her to be a truly remarkable and couragous woman and she has my total admiration. Without giving away too much of the story, I found the chapters based on the "abortion" to be particularly disturbing. Just when I thought things couldn't possibly get any worse for this little girl, her future took a dramatic turn in that instant. Although I found the entire read very upsetting and heartbreaking, I cried so much more for her at that point because that ba*tard supposed to be her "Dad", altered the entire course of her future life.
AMAZING BOOK - AMAZING AUTHOR - AMAZINGLY HORRENDOUS EVENTS.
*****

A Really Heartbreaking Story..., 14 Jan 2008
I Managed To Read This Book In Four Hours!! A Real Insight Into How Life Was For Toni As A Youngster.
Toni Has Shown Extreme Courage To Complete This Autobiography & Share It With Others.
I Could Not Put This Book Down. I Cried For The Childhood Toni Missed & I Had.

I Am Now Reading When Daddy Comes Home,, Again I Cannot Put The Book Down & I Will No Doubt Be Finished Soon.

This Book Is Worth Every Moment You Spend Reading It.

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant book readable & understandable., 24 Mar 2007
I am a social work student in my first year and stuggle with some academic books. This book is informative and interesting - I used it for my essays. It is well written and easy to understand. I thoroughly recommend it to future students.

Excellent, informative ,easy to read and worth the money, 23 Oct 2001
An excellent pre study book for the Open University Working with Young Children and Families course. This book was easy to read and provided a font of knowledge which could be used in OU assignments. It was fairly priced and I would recommend others to buy it. The contents were informative and presented in such a way that subject matters were quickly digested and understood. I recommend it to all.

another thought provoking book................, 10 Sep 2008
the third book by Cathy Glass is as moving as the last two volumes. Cathy writes well without being over the top as so many of the "misery memoirs" can be. Cathy paints a picture of her very ordinary family (and I mean that as a compliment, not an insult) trying their best to give Dawn the best life they can. It is to be hoped that the social services do a better job now than they did 25 years ago. Without wishing to spoil the story for others their deliberate withholding of the facts about Dawn's upbringing could have been extremely damaging to the Glass family. The only thing that didn't ring true in fact was Cathys ( and also her husbands) reaction to those revelations........... I would have made an official complaint at least but I suppose that it would have stopped them fostering any more children.

It is also very interesting to learn about Cathys own life - maybe the next book will reveal more about her childrens early life.

Another excellent book , 21 Aug 2008
Another moving story from Cathy Glass. Once started I found it difficult to put the book down and was soon gripped by the story. As in her other two excellent books, the authors warmth and affection to her foster children comes through in her style of writing and makes her books very moving and also very readable. I found I just had to finish the book as soon as possible to find out how the story unfolds. The book is not just an eye opener on what terrible things can happen to innocent children and the struggles and difficulties they face as a result, but also shows how a truly caring person can help them and can make a real difference in their lives. Well done Cathy for another inspiring book.

Cut...Cathy Glass, 20 Aug 2008
A third amazing book from Cathy Glass that gives a complete insight into fostering, it's pitfalls and rewards. This book is well written and very moving. It highlights a system now improved thankfully and shows how much love and patience foster kids need to thrive. Well done Cathy for being there and a huge thanks for sharing your experiences. Can't wait for the next one, am stocking up on tissues.....

Another triumph for Cathy Glass, 10 Aug 2008
Cut was another amazing story and again shows how perseverance and care go a long way. Cathy teaches us a lot about children's experiences and how they cope and, of course, how the foster carer can help them.

Another amazing book, 07 Aug 2008
Cathy's books got me reading again, and having read her two other books, I had this on order. Her books get better and better. Again I couldn't put this down. Well done! Can't wait for the next one.

fantastic, 28 Jul 2008
i really enjoyed reading this book, which may sound odd but Cathy Glass has a way of making you feel as though you are there and it is a real page turner to see what happens next really well written i am a real fan of Cathy's and can't wait for her next book Cut as i have also read hidden again a fantastically written page turner.

I wanted to put it down but couldn't..., 18 Jul 2008
I read this book in a day, it was such a compelling but horrific story. This book really did open my eyes to the depravity of some people. My heart broke for poor Jodie, a child whose life was destroyed by people who should have been loving and caring for her. This book has disturbed me deeply.

Damaged, 15 Jul 2008
Such a heartbreaking story and not for the faint hearted. The story goes into horrific detail of what this poor little girl endured and how the social services and foster parents before Cathy also let her down. I read this book in less that a day, I could not put it down. Have your tissues at the ready

DISTURBINGLY EXPLICIT DESCIPTION OF ABUSE, 19 Jun 2008
It was impossible to put the book down and I read it in a few hours. The book incites very strong emotions ranging from anger, despair, sadness, frustration & revulsion to utter disbelief at the depravity of some human beings, the serious incompetence of the social services in this case and complete admiration for Cathy, the foster carer and her family. Defnitely worth reading but there should be a warning regarding the explicitness of the abuse.

One of the most unique memoirs yet, 27 Apr 2008
I've read a fair amount of memoirs, there's a lot about now. But this is the first book i have felt compelled to write about, i finished this book in 2 days!!
This book is different in the way that it's written and the angle for which it's written. It is captivating, heartbreaking, and so insightful it would either convince you to become a foster carer or put you off for life.
A truly insperational book, not only for the victim but also for those who truly cared about her.

unbelievable strength, 27 Aug 2008
In a world filled with crime and death, war and poverty, many seek the salvation of religion to overcome.
We hear many stories about cults in America, stories of teenagers leaving then people they love to stay in communes where they are brainwashed, humiliated, abused and used.
This is the true accounts of three sisters who had no choice but to be born into one of these cults, the children of god.
From a very early age these poor children were systematically abused physically and mentally by the adult members of the group.
How these girls triumphed over these sick people astounds me and I congratulate them and hope that their lives are not tainted by these evil people.
This cult is still going and the story of these girls is a warning to us all. This is not easy reading but it is a book one must read.

Disturbing but Courageous, 26 Aug 2008
It is never pleasant to read some disturbing experiences that these young lady's have gone through. I kept questioning myself on why I was reading what I was. My wife, Mother in Law & sister in law all read this book & found it disturbing. The only reason I could find as to why I wanted to read such a book, was in the hope that the 3 lady's were now back together & leading 'normal' lives.

If you are planning to purchase this book, the details, I found, are very explicit. However, the truth has to be known & the truth definitely comes out in this book. Yes I feel extremely sorry for these young lady's knowing that while I was growing up, there were people suffering like they did. These young lady's are very brave. Brave to that fact of making it known the disgusting things these so-called 'adults' put them through & then these 'adults' trying to justify their crimes through the word of the lord.

I can only wish Kristina, Celeste & Juliana well, & congratulate them on their brave fight & wish them well in their continued fight to expose organisations such as the 'Children of God'.

This is a very good, well written, but painful book. The 3 lady's courage can be found to be inspirational & a lesson to us all.

disturbing, 27 Jun 2008
I didn't think I could finish this book. It really effected me that so much evil could still exist in the name of a God that despises child abuse.
The three sisters were very brave to allow this book to go to print and tell the truth. The sad thing is that I believe I met some of the group on a trip to Portugal many years ago, without realising the full extent of the cult's beliefs. I can still see the face of the small little girl who was performing for us...

absolutely fantastic, 27 May 2008
this was the most moving, upsetting, yet amusing at times, book i have read in a very long time. These women are a total inspiration to me and I thank them for sharing thier story with us. I am familiar with the CoG and was interested to read what it was really like from the inside. A gripping and compelling story that was uncomfortable at times but well worth reading.

Truly Wow, 07 May 2008
I chose this book for some reason, from the army of others like these which are on the shelves at them moment. Not knowing anything about the 'CoG' or 'The Family' as I lived in South Africa, and don't think they had much or any contact there. On reading these very well written, and compelling life stories by three amazing woman, I can not help but be thankful for the up bringing I had.
I am truly relieved that they have been able to survive their past, and help others and each other. You girls deserve all the happiness that life can bring.
Thank you for your inspiring lives, and sharing it with us!!!
To those in the Family who reject what these woman say, God will have the final say!


Shocked & Saddened, 16 Dec 2008
This is author Toni Maguires true story of her harrowing childhood in Belfast in the 1950's, at the hands of a sexually abusive father.
It runs along side of the story of her sitting in a nursing home as an adult, with her terminally ill mother. As she keeps her vigil, her memories come back to her and she begins to tell her story of her childhood. This is not a story of neglect in a material sense as is usually the case, but a fairly average childhood in all other respects, interspersed with horrendous sexual abuse. As we find out, the damage caused lasts a lifetime for Toni.
This is another book I couldn't put down until finished. How a parent can do such things to a child is totally beyond my belief! It highlights the fact that so many families can hide such hideous secrets behind a cover of "normality" and "respectability".
Well worth a read.
Don't Tell Mummy: A True Story of the Ultimate Betrayal

In Brief, 30 May 2008
This book is beautifully written and I was desperate to read Toni's sequel as I needed to find out if she ever did manage to get answers from her mother or a resolution over her father's actions.

The book is damning indigtment of the Northern Irish Protestant family that ostracised her for "shaming" her father by reporting the abuse when he had made her pregnant.

A step above many of the Memoirs of misery that currently flood the market.

I hope this book enables others to face the fear and speak out for themselves, or helps others to not keep secrets when they KNOW other family members or friends are being abused.

I applaud Toni Maguire, she is an inspiration.


HEARTBREAKING., 23 Mar 2008
I felt so sorry for this little girl as she struggled to cope with things she was too young to understand. Her father was an absolute monster, but it was the behaviour of her mother that i found the hardest to understand. Some women simply refuse to believe what is there right in front of their eyes - and only they know why....

Both Very Addictive and Very Disturbing, 16 Feb 2008
I couldn't put this book down. It is suberbly written. I will never ever understand how anyone can hurt a child, especially their own flesh and blood. Toni has been through so much at the hands of her evil father. I find her to be a truly remarkable and couragous woman and she has my total admiration. Without giving away too much of the story, I found the chapters based on the "abortion" to be particularly disturbing. Just when I thought things couldn't possibly get any worse for this little girl, her future took a dramatic turn in that instant. Although I found the entire read very upsetting and heartbreaking, I cried so much more for her at that point because that ba*tard supposed to be her "Dad", altered the entire course of her future life.
AMAZING BOOK - AMAZING AUTHOR - AMAZINGLY HORRENDOUS EVENTS.
*****

A Really Heartbreaking Story..., 14 Jan 2008
I Managed To Read This Book In Four Hours!! A Real Insight Into How Life Was For Toni As A Youngster.
Toni Has Shown Extreme Courage To Complete This Autobiography & Share It With Others.
I Could Not Put This Book Down. I Cried For The Childhood Toni Missed & I Had.

I Am Now Reading When Daddy Comes Home,, Again I Cannot Put The Book Down & I Will No Doubt Be Finished Soon.

This Book Is Worth Every Moment You Spend Reading It.


A British Charitable Institution?, 11 Aug 2008
Sue Martin's harrowing account of the physical and mental abuse and tortue at the hands of so-called carers has changed my perception of the charity under which she was placed. It is certainly one I'll never give to again. Not until they explain such treatment and what they intend to do to atone for their unspeakable inhuman behaviour towards children.

Inspirational, 29 Apr 2008
Once I started reading Sue's book I couldn't put it down. A very moving, at times very distressing account of what life could be like in Children's Homes in the 40's and 50's What also comes across is Sue's courage, strength of character and determination to beat the system. I look forward to the sequel.

WHAT A GIRL !!, 27 Mar 2008
This is absolutely worth reading ! Sue goes through terrible torment and abuse, but what a personality she has ! She works out in her own child`s mind how she`s going to deal with everybody - and carries it through - and it works ! One important fact you learn from this book - it`s not always men that abuse children.....

Brilliant book...., 15 Feb 2008
I read this book after it being recommended to me by my daughter and I felt compelled to write this review to let everyone know just what a brilliant book it is! From the moment of starting it, I just couldn't put it down. I'm not a fast reader so it took me a few days to read it despite this but I loved every minute of it. Her story is both tragic and heart-wrenching and enables one to be able to put their own troubles and hardships in perspective. My heart goes out to the author and all those children who suffered through similar experiences. So if you haven't read this book yet, please do so. I just hope that a sequel is forthcoming soon because I can't wait to find out what happens next...

A moving and inspirational book.., 14 Jan 2008
From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down! I cried in many places but was also inspired by Sue's courage and fortitude. She is an inspiration to us all! This is without a doubt one of the best books of it's kind I have ever read and I have read a great many of them!
I would also like to point out that this review is not at all influenced or biased by the fact that I have known Sue and her family personally for many years. She is a wonderful person, full of warmth and generosity and a terrific friend, mother and grandmother. I am proud, not only to know her but also for her amazing courage in sharing her story with the world. Well done Sue!

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant book readable & understandable., 24 Mar 2007
I am a social work student in my first year and stuggle with some academic books. This book is informative and interesting - I used it for my essays. It is well written and easy to understand. I thoroughly recommend it to future students.

Excellent, informative ,easy to read and worth the money, 23 Oct 2001
An excellent pre study book for the Open University Working with Young Children and Families course. This book was easy to read and provided a font of knowledge which could be used in OU assignments. It was fairly priced and I would recommend others to buy it. The contents were informative and presented in such a way that subject matters were quickly digested and understood. I recommend it to all.

another thought provoking book................, 10 Sep 2008
the third book by Cathy Glass is as moving as the last two volumes. Cathy writes well without being over the top as so many of the "misery memoirs" can be. Cathy paints a picture of her very ordinary family (and I mean that as a compliment, not an insult) trying their best to give Dawn the best life they can. It is to be hoped that the social services do a better job now than they did 25 years ago. Without wishing to spoil the story for others their deliberate withholding of the facts about Dawn's upbringing could have been extremely damaging to the Glass family. The only thing that didn't ring true in fact was Cathys ( and also her husbands) reaction to those revelations........... I would have made an official complaint at least but I suppose that it would have stopped them fostering any more children.

It is also very interesting to learn about Cathys own life - maybe the next book will reveal more about her childrens early life.

Another excellent book , 21 Aug 2008
Another moving story from Cathy Glass. Once started I found it difficult to put the book down and was soon gripped by the story. As in her other two excellent books, the authors warmth and affection to her foster children comes through in her style of writing and makes her books very moving and also very readable. I found I just had to finish the book as soon as possible to find out how the story unfolds. The book is not just an eye opener on what terrible things can happen to innocent children and the struggles and difficulties they face as a result, but also shows how a truly caring person can help them and can make a real difference in their lives. Well done Cathy for another inspiring book.

Cut...Cathy Glass, 20 Aug 2008
A third amazing book from Cathy Glass that gives a complete insight into fostering, it's pitfalls and rewards. This book is well written and very moving. It highlights a system now improved thankfully and shows how much love and patience foster kids need to thrive. Well done Cathy for being there and a huge thanks for sharing your experiences. Can't wait for the next one, am stocking up on tissues.....

Another triumph for Cathy Glass, 10 Aug 2008
Cut was another amazing story and again shows how perseverance and care go a long way. Cathy teaches us a lot about children's experiences and how they cope and, of course, how the foster carer can help them.

Another amazing book, 07 Aug 2008
Cathy's books got me reading again, and having read her two other books, I had this on order. Her books get better and better. Again I couldn't put this down. Well done! Can't wait for the next one.

fantastic, 28 Jul 2008
i really enjoyed reading this book, which may sound odd but Cathy Glass has a way of making you feel as though you are there and it is a real page turner to see what happens next really well written i am a real fan of Cathy's and can't wait for her next book Cut as i have also read hidden again a fantastically written page turner.

I wanted to put it down but couldn't..., 18 Jul 2008
I read this book in a day, it was such a compelling but horrific story. This book really did open my eyes to the depravity of some people. My heart broke for poor Jodie, a child whose life was destroyed by people who should have been loving and caring for her. This book has disturbed me deeply.

Damaged, 15 Jul 2008
Such a heartbreaking story and not for the faint hearted. The story goes into horrific detail of what this poor little girl endured and how the social services and foster parents before Cathy also let her down. I read this book in less that a day, I could not put it down. Have your tissues at the ready

DISTURBINGLY EXPLICIT DESCIPTION OF ABUSE, 19 Jun 2008
It was impossible to put the book down and I read it in a few hours. The book incites very strong emotions ranging from anger, despair, sadness, frustration & revulsion to utter disbelief at the depravity of some human beings, the serious incompetence of the social services in this case and complete admiration for Cathy, the foster carer and her family. Defnitely worth reading but there should be a warning regarding the explicitness of the abuse.

One of the most unique memoirs yet, 27 Apr 2008
I've read a fair amount of memoirs, there's a lot about now. But this is the first book i have felt compelled to write about, i finished this book in 2 days!!
This book is different in the way that it's written and the angle for which it's written. It is captivating, heartbreaking, and so insightful it would either convince you to become a foster carer or put you off for life.
A truly insperational book, not only for the victim but also for those who truly cared about her.

unbelievable strength, 27 Aug 2008
In a world filled with crime and death, war and poverty, many seek the salvation of religion to overcome.
We hear many stories about cults in America, stories of teenagers leaving then people they love to stay in communes where they are brainwashed, humiliated, abused and used.
This is the true accounts of three sisters who had no choice but to be born into one of these cults, the children of god.
From a very early age these poor children were systematically abused physically and mentally by the adult members of the group.
How these girls triumphed over these sick people astounds me and I congratulate them and hope that their lives are not tainted by these evil people.
This cult is still going and the story of these girls is a warning to us all. This is not easy reading but it is a book one must read.

Disturbing but Courageous, 26 Aug 2008
It is never pleasant to read some disturbing experiences that these young lady's have gone through. I kept questioning myself on why I was reading what I was. My wife, Mother in Law & sister in law all read this book & found it disturbing. The only reason I could find as to why I wanted to read such a book, was in the hope that the 3 lady's were now back together & leading 'normal' lives.

If you are planning to purchase this book, the details, I found, are very explicit. However, the truth has to be known & the truth definitely comes out in this book. Yes I feel extremely sorry for these young lady's knowing that while I was growing up, there were people suffering like they did. These young lady's are very brave. Brave to that fact of making it known the disgusting things these so-called 'adults' put them through & then these 'adults' trying to justify their crimes through the word of the lord.

I can only wish Kristina, Celeste & Juliana well, & congratulate them on their brave fight & wish them well in their continued fight to expose organisations such as the 'Children of God'.

This is a very good, well written, but painful book. The 3 lady's courage can be found to be inspirational & a lesson to us all.

disturbing, 27 Jun 2008
I didn't think I could finish this book. It really effected me that so much evil could still exist in the name of a God that despises child abuse.
The three sisters were very brave to allow this book to go to print and tell the truth. The sad thing is that I believe I met some of the group on a trip to Portugal many years ago, without realising the full extent of the cult's beliefs. I can still see the face of the small little girl who was performing for us...

absolutely fantastic, 27 May 2008
this was the most moving, upsetting, yet amusing at times, book i have read in a very long time. These women are a total inspiration to me and I thank them for sharing thier story with us. I am familiar with the CoG and was interested to read what it was really like from the inside. A gripping and compelling story that was uncomfortable at times but well worth reading.

Truly Wow, 07 May 2008
I chose this book for some reason, from the army of others like these which are on the shelves at them moment. Not knowing anything about the 'CoG' or 'The Family' as I lived in South Africa, and don't think they had much or any contact there. On reading these very well written, and compelling life stories by three amazing woman, I can not help but be thankful for the up bringing I had.
I am truly relieved that they have been able to survive their past, and help others and each other. You girls deserve all the happiness that life can bring.
Thank you for your inspiring lives, and sharing it with us!!!
To those in the Family who reject what these woman say, God will have the final say!


Shocked & Saddened, 16 Dec 2008
This is author Toni Maguires true story of her harrowing childhood in Belfast in the 1950's, at the hands of a sexually abusive father.
It runs along side of the story of her sitting in a nursing home as an adult, with her terminally ill mother. As she keeps her vigil, her memories come back to her and she begins to tell her story of her childhood. This is not a story of neglect in a material sense as is usually the case, but a fairly average childhood in all other respects, interspersed with horrendous sexual abuse. As we find out, the damage caused lasts a lifetime for Toni.
This is another book I couldn't put down until finished. How a parent can do such things to a child is totally beyond my belief! It highlights the fact that so many families can hide such hideous secrets behind a cover of "normality" and "respectability".
Well worth a read.
Don't Tell Mummy: A True Story of the Ultimate Betrayal

In Brief, 30 May 2008
This book is beautifully written and I was desperate to read Toni's sequel as I needed to find out if she ever did manage to get answers from her mother or a resolution over her father's actions.

The book is damning indigtment of the Northern Irish Protestant family that ostracised her for "shaming" her father by reporting the abuse when he had made her pregnant.

A step above many of the Memoirs of misery that currently flood the market.

I hope this book enables others to face the fear and speak out for themselves, or helps others to not keep secrets when they KNOW other family members or friends are being abused.

I applaud Toni Maguire, she is an inspiration.


HEARTBREAKING., 23 Mar 2008
I felt so sorry for this little girl as she struggled to cope with things she was too young to understand. Her father was an absolute monster, but it was the behaviour of her mother that i found the hardest to understand. Some women simply refuse to believe what is there right in front of their eyes - and only they know why....

Both Very Addictive and Very Disturbing, 16 Feb 2008
I couldn't put this book down. It is suberbly written. I will never ever understand how anyone can hurt a child, especially their own flesh and blood. Toni has been through so much at the hands of her evil father. I find her to be a truly remarkable and couragous woman and she has my total admiration. Without giving away too much of the story, I found the chapters based on the "abortion" to be particularly disturbing. Just when I thought things couldn't possibly get any worse for this little girl, her future took a dramatic turn in that instant. Although I found the entire read very upsetting and heartbreaking, I cried so much more for her at that point because that ba*tard supposed to be her "Dad", altered the entire course of her future life.
AMAZING BOOK - AMAZING AUTHOR - AMAZINGLY HORRENDOUS EVENTS.
*****

A Really Heartbreaking Story..., 14 Jan 2008
I Managed To Read This Book In Four Hours!! A Real Insight Into How Life Was For Toni As A Youngster.
Toni Has Shown Extreme Courage To Complete This Autobiography & Share It With Others.
I Could Not Put This Book Down. I Cried For The Childhood Toni Missed & I Had.

I Am Now Reading When Daddy Comes Home,, Again I Cannot Put The Book Down & I Will No Doubt Be Finished Soon.

This Book Is Worth Every Moment You Spend Reading It.


A British Charitable Institution?, 11 Aug 2008
Sue Martin's harrowing account of the physical and mental abuse and tortue at the hands of so-called carers has changed my perception of the charity under which she was placed. It is certainly one I'll never give to again. Not until they explain such treatment and what they intend to do to atone for their unspeakable inhuman behaviour towards children.

Inspirational, 29 Apr 2008
Once I started reading Sue's book I couldn't put it down. A very moving, at times very distressing account of what life could be like in Children's Homes in the 40's and 50's What also comes across is Sue's courage, strength of character and determination to beat the system. I look forward to the sequel.

WHAT A GIRL !!, 27 Mar 2008
This is absolutely worth reading ! Sue goes through terrible torment and abuse, but what a personality she has ! She works out in her own child`s mind how she`s going to deal with everybody - and carries it through - and it works ! One important fact you learn from this book - it`s not always men that abuse children.....

Brilliant book...., 15 Feb 2008
I read this book after it being recommended to me by my daughter and I felt compelled to write this review to let everyone know just what a brilliant book it is! From the moment of starting it, I just couldn't put it down. I'm not a fast reader so it took me a few days to read it despite this but I loved every minute of it. Her story is both tragic and heart-wrenching and enables one to be able to put their own troubles and hardships in perspective. My heart goes out to the author and all those children who suffered through similar experiences. So if you haven't read this book yet, please do so. I just hope that a sequel is forthcoming soon because I can't wait to find out what happens next...

A moving and inspirational book.., 14 Jan 2008
From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down! I cried in many places but was also inspired by Sue's courage and fortitude. She is an inspiration to us all! This is without a doubt one of the best books of it's kind I have ever read and I have read a great many of them!
I would also like to point out that this review is not at all influenced or biased by the fact that I have known Sue and her family personally for many years. She is a wonderful person, full of warmth and generosity and a terrific friend, mother and grandmother. I am proud, not only to know her but also for her amazing courage in sharing her story with the world. Well done Sue!

Edge of the seat stuff, 17 Jan 2008
Actually, having read quite a few of these types of books I was expecting a bit of exaggeration, however it was well written and chillingly disturbing in it's honesty. It leaves you questioning the so-called 'born evil' and wondering just how much we are responsbile for these 'child killers.' Definitly recommended.

An eye opener., 15 Jan 2008
If you can get past the out of control crowds, all screaming for `them to be locked up and the key thrown away` - there is, in every case, a heart rending story to be told. Whether or not you`re prepared to take the time to listen to it is up to you - but i would highly recommend this book either way.

Serious research, serious insight, 01 Feb 2005
Despite the gaudy title this is not a sensationalist work. On the contrary, the author has taken one of the most emotive subjects on earth, researched it thoroughly and written a work of real psychological insight without ever raising his authorial voice. A must-read for anyone with a serious interest in criminal psychology, this book helps us to understand that demonizing children is not merely unethical but utterly unhelpful, and also raises the question of whether the adult should be punished for the crimes of the child. Excellent throughout.

Brilliant Book!, 15 Dec 2007
This is a great book, nice print and easy to read. I was desperate to help my son who gets angry and frustrated quite alot. He is autistic and has speech and language problems and it was distressing to see him so angry. This book has helped alot.

A great book!, 12 May 2004
have used this book recently with a 12 year old undergoing anger management who was regularly losing his temper, on average every 2-3 days.
In 2 sessions, which have included selected exercises from this book, he has gone from swearing, hitting, throwing furniture etc to realising when to leave potentially volatile situations! In the last 3 weeks there have been only 2 'anger' episodes - and both times he walked away!

This, I feel, is a real testament to this book's worth!

The exercises are simple and easily photocopiable and/or adaptable for each individual. Some exercises are intended for group work but most are readily adaptable for individual coaching if, like myself, this is how you choose to work.

Great Book, 01 Jul 1999
This is a good book to use with children to help them learn about anger management. I use it to run groups with children. Highly recommend

Brilliant book readable & understandable., 24 Mar 2007
I am a social work student in my first year and stuggle with some academic books. This book is informative and interesting - I used it for my essays. It is well written and easy to understand. I thoroughly recommend it to future students.

Excellent, informative ,easy to read and worth the money, 23 Oct 2001
An excellent pre study book for the Open University Working with Young Children and Families course. This book was easy to read and provided a font of knowledge which could be used in OU assignments. It was fairly priced and I would recommend others to buy it. The contents were informative and presented in such a way that subject matters were quickly digested and understood. I recommend it to all.

another thought provoking book................, 10 Sep 2008
the third book by Cathy Glass is as moving as the last two volumes. Cathy writes well without being over the top as so many of the "misery memoirs" can be. Cathy paints a picture of her very ordinary family (and I mean that as a compliment, not an insult) trying their best to give Dawn the best life they can. It is to be hoped that the social services do a better job now than they did 25 years ago. Without wishing to spoil the story for others their deliberate withholding of the facts about Dawn's upbringing could have been extremely damaging to the Glass family. The only thing that didn't ring true in fact was Cathys ( and also her husbands) reaction to those revelations........... I would have made an official complaint at least but I suppose that it would have stopped them fostering any more children.

It is also very interesting to learn about Cathys own life - maybe the next book will reveal more about her childrens early life.

Another excellent book , 21 Aug 2008
Another moving story from Cathy Glass. Once started I found it difficult to put the book down and was soon gripped by the story. As in her other two excellent books, the authors warmth and affection to her foster children comes through in her style of writing and makes her books very moving and also very readable. I found I just had to finish the book as soon as possible to find out how the story unfolds. The book is not just an eye opener on what terrible things can happen to innocent children and the struggles and difficulties they face as a result, but also shows how a truly caring person can help them and can make a real difference in their lives. Well done Cathy for another inspiring book.

Cut...Cathy Glass, 20 Aug 2008
A third amazing book from Cathy Glass that gives a complete insight into fostering, it's pitfalls and rewards. This book is well written and very moving. It highlights a system now improved thankfully and shows how much love and patience foster kids need to thrive. Well done Cathy for being there and a huge thanks for sharing your experiences. Can't wait for the next one, am stocking up on tissues.....

Another triumph for Cathy Glass, 10 Aug 2008
Cut was another amazing story and again shows how perseverance and care go a long way. Cathy teaches us a lot about children's experiences and how they cope and, of course, how the foster carer can help them.

Another amazing book, 07 Aug 2008
Cathy's books got me reading again, and having read her two other books, I had this on order. Her books get better and better. Again I couldn't put this down. Well done! Can't wait for the next one.

fantastic, 28 Jul 2008
i really enjoyed reading this book, which may sound odd but Cathy Glass has a way of making you feel as though you are there and it is a real page turner to see what happens next really well written i am a real fan of Cathy's and can't wait for her next book Cut as i have also read hidden again a fantastically written page turner.

I wanted to put it down but couldn't..., 18 Jul 2008
I read this book in a day, it was such a compelling but horrific story. This book really did open my eyes to the depravity of some people. My heart broke for poor Jodie, a child whose life was destroyed by people who should have been loving and caring for her. This book has disturbed me deeply.

Damaged, 15 Jul 2008
Such a heartbreaking story and not for the faint hearted. The story goes into horrific detail of what this poor little girl endured and how the social services and foster parents before Cathy also let her down. I read this book in less that a day, I could not put it down. Have your tissues at the ready

DISTURBINGLY EXPLICIT DESCIPTION OF ABUSE, 19 Jun 2008
It was impossible to put the book down and I read it in a few hours. The book incites very strong emotions ranging from anger, despair, sadness, frustration & revulsion to utter disbelief at the depravity of some human beings, the serious incompetence of the social services in this case and complete admiration for Cathy, the foster carer and her family. Defnitely worth reading but there should be a warning regarding the explicitness of the abuse.

One of the most unique memoirs yet, 27 Apr 2008
I've read a fair amount of memoirs, there's a lot about now. But this is the first book i have felt compelled to write about, i finished this book in 2 days!!
This book is different in the way that it's written and the angle for which it's written. It is captivating, heartbreaking, and so insightful it would either convince you to become a foster carer or put you off for life.
A truly insperational book, not only for the victim but also for those who truly cared about her.

unbelievable strength, 27 Aug 2008
In a world filled with crime and death, war and poverty, many seek the salvation of religion to overcome.
We hear many stories about cults in America, stories of teenagers leaving then people they love to stay in communes where they are brainwashed, humiliated, abused and used.
This is the true accounts of three sisters who had no choice but to be born into one of these cults, the children of god.
From a very early age these poor children were systematically abused physically and mentally by the adult members of the group.
How these girls triumphed over these sick people astounds me and I congratulate them and hope that their lives are not tainted by these evil people.
This cult is still going and the story of these girls is a warning to us all. This is not easy reading but it is a book one must read.

Disturbing but Courageous, 26 Aug 2008
It is never pleasant to read some disturbing experiences that these young lady's have gone through. I kept questioning myself on why I was reading what I was. My wife, Mother in Law & sister in law all read this book & found it disturbing. The only reason I could find as to why I wanted to read such a book, was in the hope that the 3 lady's were now back together & leading 'normal' lives.

If you are planning to purchase this book, the details, I found, are very explicit. However, the truth has to be known & the truth definitely comes out in this book. Yes I feel extremely sorry for these young lady's knowing that while I was growing up, there were people suffering like they did. These young lady's are very brave. Brave to that fact of making it known the disgusting things these so-called 'adults' put them through & then these 'adults' trying to justify their crimes through the word of the lord.

I can only wish Kristina, Celeste & Juliana well, & congratulate them on their brave fight & wish them well in their continued fight to expose organisations such as the 'Children of God'.

This is a very good, well written, but painful book. The 3 lady's courage can be found to be inspirational & a lesson to us all.

disturbing, 27 Jun 2008
I didn't think I could finish this book. It really effected me that so much evil could still exist in the name of a God that despises child abuse.
The three sisters were very brave to allow this book to go to print and tell the truth. The sad thing is that I believe I met some of the group on a trip to Portugal many years ago, without realising the full extent of the cult's beliefs. I can still see the face of the small little girl who was performing for us...

absolutely fantastic, 27 May 2008
this was the most moving, upsetting, yet amusing at times, book i have read in a very long time. These women are a total inspiration to me and I thank them for sharing thier story with us. I am familiar with the CoG and was interested to read what it was really like from the inside. A gripping and compelling story that was uncomfortable at times but well worth reading.

Truly Wow, 07 May 2008
I chose this book for some reason, from the army of others like these which are on the shelves at them moment. Not knowing anything about the 'CoG' or 'The Family' as I lived in South Africa, and don't think they had much or any contact there. On reading these very well written, and compelling life stories by three amazing woman, I can not help but be thankful for the up bringing I had.
I am truly relieved that they have been able to survive their past, and help others and each other. You girls deserve all the happiness that life can bring.
Thank you for your inspiring lives, and sharing it with us!!!
To those in the Family who reject what these woman say, God will have the final say!


Shocked & Saddened, 16 Dec 2008
This is author Toni Maguires true story of her harrowing childhood in Belfast in the 1950's, at the hands of a sexually abusive father.
It runs along side of the story of her sitting in a nursing home as an adult, with her terminally ill mother. As she keeps her vigil, her memories come back to her and she begins to tell her story of her childhood. This is not a story of neglect in a material sense as is usually the case, but a fairly average childhood in all other respects, interspersed with horrendous sexual abuse. As we find out, the damage caused lasts a lifetime for Toni.
This is another book I couldn't put down until finished. How a parent can do such things to a child is totally beyond my belief! It highlights the fact that so many families can hide such hideous secrets behind a cover of "normality" and "respectability".
Well worth a read.
Don't Tell Mummy: A True Story of the Ultimate Betrayal

In Brief, 30 May 2008
This book is beautifully written and I was desperate to read Toni's sequel as I needed to find out if she ever did manage to get answers from her mother or a resolution over her father's actions.

The book is damning indigtment of the Northern Irish Protestant family that ostracised her for "shaming" her father by reporting the abuse when he had made her pregnant.

A step above many of the Memoirs of misery that currently flood the market.

I hope this book enables others to face the fear and speak out for themselves, or helps others to not keep secrets when they KNOW other family members or friends are being abused.

I applaud Toni Maguire, she is an inspiration.


HEARTBREAKING., 23 Mar 2008
I felt so sorry for this little girl as she struggled to cope with things she was too young to understand. Her father was an absolute monster, but it was the behaviour of her mother that i found the hardest to understand. Some women simply refuse to believe what is there right in front of their eyes - and only they know why....

Both Very Addictive and Very Disturbing, 16 Feb 2008
I couldn't put this book down. It is suberbly written. I will never ever understand