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.

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.

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.

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.

beyond ugly, 13 Nov 2008
I too read the first book, and was also going to buy the next book.but saw constance brisco on GMTV and was put off by the way she seemed very stern and cold. yes she has an bad upbringing. but others have aswell but are warmer. I got the impression, for this book was that she wrote it as a money spinner. dont think i`ll bother to buy this now.

Beyond Ugly, 06 Sep 2008
I am an avid fan of "Ugly" and bought this book because I wanted to continue to follow her story. This book to me doesn't seem to contain the same emotional flow as her first. It's a good read and because you're interested in her you want to keep on reading - I just felt it was slightly rushed toward the end. Still worth reading however and I still admire her courage!

I'm sorry but a waste of money, 15 Aug 2008
I purchased the first book and really enjoyed reading it, as I could see where Constance was coming from with having a terrible mother. I had the same issues with my mother and like Constance, I no longer have contact with her.
I looked forward to this book to see how her life was going and while it was a great read to see that she went onto getting her degree in law,the book went on too much about her surgery which made the book boring and made me feel that I wasted my money buying it IMO.
Such a shame as the first book was excellent.

???, 15 Jun 2008
Until just this moment I didn't know this was a sequel to another book. I only read this one.I just couldn't understand all the hype. Best-selling novel!! Why?? I found the voice and the writing really simple. She was so tight lipped about her feelings that I found it hard to relate to her in any way. She would pass over details I thought were important and then all of a sudden mention a big part of her life from out of no where. I didn't get this book. I was expecting something completely different and was really disappointed. I started thinking that as long as you have a horrible back ground and make something of yourself later in life you too can have a best selling novel... even if you can't write that well. I figure if I can write well, but come from a pretty good background, maybe I can have some success too...Levels out that way? Maybe I need to read Ugly now to figure out all the excitement around this book... but I will go to the library to and loan it out.

Waste of time, 19 Mar 2008
How very very disapointing, I want my money back!! I couldn't wait to purchase this book but I am so disappointed with the contents, it starts off alright but then it just goes on and on and on about her court appearance and her clients - It is nothing like the first book, I wanted to know more about her mother and her family but there was no mention at all. I really can't understand why Contance wrote this book, unlike the first book this one is so boring.

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.

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.

beyond ugly, 13 Nov 2008
I too read the first book, and was also going to buy the next book.but saw constance brisco on GMTV and was put off by the way she seemed very stern and cold. yes she has an bad upbringing. but others have aswell but are warmer. I got the impression, for this book was that she wrote it as a money spinner. dont think i`ll bother to buy this now.

Beyond Ugly, 06 Sep 2008
I am an avid fan of "Ugly" and bought this book because I wanted to continue to follow her story. This book to me doesn't seem to contain the same emotional flow as her first. It's a good read and because you're interested in her you want to keep on reading - I just felt it was slightly rushed toward the end. Still worth reading however and I still admire her courage!

I'm sorry but a waste of money, 15 Aug 2008
I purchased the first book and really enjoyed reading it, as I could see where Constance was coming from with having a terrible mother. I had the same issues with my mother and like Constance, I no longer have contact with her.
I looked forward to this book to see how her life was going and while it was a great read to see that she went onto getting her degree in law,the book went on too much about her surgery which made the book boring and made me feel that I wasted my money buying it IMO.
Such a shame as the first book was excellent.

???, 15 Jun 2008
Until just this moment I didn't know this was a sequel to another book. I only read this one.I just couldn't understand all the hype. Best-selling novel!! Why?? I found the voice and the writing really simple. She was so tight lipped about her feelings that I found it hard to relate to her in any way. She would pass over details I thought were important and then all of a sudden mention a big part of her life from out of no where. I didn't get this book. I was expecting something completely different and was really disappointed. I started thinking that as long as you have a horrible back ground and make something of yourself later in life you too can have a best selling novel... even if you can't write that well. I figure if I can write well, but come from a pretty good background, maybe I can have some success too...Levels out that way? Maybe I need to read Ugly now to figure out all the excitement around this book... but I will go to the library to and loan it out.

Waste of time, 19 Mar 2008
How very very disapointing, I want my money back!! I couldn't wait to purchase this book but I am so disappointed with the contents, it starts off alright but then it just goes on and on and on about her court appearance and her clients - It is nothing like the first book, I wanted to know more about her mother and her family but there was no mention at all. I really can't understand why Contance wrote this book, unlike the first book this one is so boring.

Fantastic Book, 16 Nov 2008
What a fantastic book - brutally honest with the impression that nothing is held back I admire Clarissa for her strength in eventually facing her problems. She has a lust for life and a great sense of fun as well that makes you wonder what she could of achieved if alcohol hadnt entered her life for so long. An inspiring and interesting read I recommend this book whole heartly!

A vivid and entertaining memoir, 15 Nov 2008
I decided to read this because I enjoyed The Two Fat Ladies so much and my parents once attended medical lectures given by CDW's surgeon father who was well-known as a difficult character. These memoirs are vivid and moving. The chapters which describe her early years, her eccentric family and relationship with her father are the best ones. I found her descriptions of what it is like to be an alcoholic enlightening and certainly gave me an insight into alcohol addiction. The anecdoctal style is both a strength and a weakness of the book. You can almost feel CDW with her larger-than-life personality talking to you herself over a cup of tea; on the other hand the frequent use of colloquialisms and unexplained slang words gets annoying while later chapters suffer from long-windedness. A more thorough editing would have been helpful.

This was utter rubbish, 28 Oct 2008
I quite liked Clarissa Dickson Wright before I read this but I have no time for her now. Her comment that she found it unreasonable that friends wouldn't accept her generosity and as a result she had to stay and eat in places which were much below her usual standards really wound me up. Welcome to the real world. Not all of us have access to an inheritance we can drink away. Not all of us have friends who will put us up for weeks/months at a time. Most of us have to work hard to pay for a roof over our heads, food to eat etc. On top of everything else it was poorly written and dull.

A must read for a thought provoking insight into addictions, 24 Oct 2008
Was thoroughly enjoyable and an eye opener. A very well educated and eloquent lady who tells not only her story but gives us all something to think about. Life is not always as it seems and that is something we would all be better off understanding. So many people judge others and if you want to read something inspiring then this is it. Honest and uplifting to think that there is someone who so obviously "bothers" about helping others. all those who havent given 5 stars need to question their intelligence and humanity - such petty comments I thought!

Not enough beans spilt...., 18 Oct 2008
I love her to bits, and as a vegetarian, she and Jennifer made me eat meat again!

I'm sure there is much more she could written about her life, but a very enjoyable book about the life of a fascinating lady.

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.

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.

beyond ugly, 13 Nov 2008
I too read the first book, and was also going to buy the next book.but saw constance brisco on GMTV and was put off by the way she seemed very stern and cold. yes she has an bad upbringing. but others have aswell but are warmer. I got the impression, for this book was that she wrote it as a money spinner. dont think i`ll bother to buy this now.

Beyond Ugly, 06 Sep 2008
I am an avid fan of "Ugly" and bought this book because I wanted to continue to follow her story. This book to me doesn't seem to contain the same emotional flow as her first. It's a good read and because you're interested in her you want to keep on reading - I just felt it was slightly rushed toward the end. Still worth reading however and I still admire her courage!

I'm sorry but a waste of money, 15 Aug 2008
I purchased the first book and really enjoyed reading it, as I could see where Constance was coming from with having a terrible mother. I had the same issues with my mother and like Constance, I no longer have contact with her.
I looked forward to this book to see how her life was going and while it was a great read to see that she went onto getting her degree in law,the book went on too much about her surgery which made the book boring and made me feel that I wasted my money buying it IMO.
Such a shame as the first book was excellent.

???, 15 Jun 2008
Until just this moment I didn't know this was a sequel to another book. I only read this one.I just couldn't understand all the hype. Best-selling novel!! Why?? I found the voice and the writing really simple. She was so tight lipped about her feelings that I found it hard to relate to her in any way. She would pass over details I thought were important and then all of a sudden mention a big part of her life from out of no where. I didn't get this book. I was expecting something completely different and was really disappointed. I started thinking that as long as you have a horrible back ground and make something of yourself later in life you too can have a best selling novel... even if you can't write that well. I figure if I can write well, but come from a pretty good background, maybe I can have some success too...Levels out that way? Maybe I need to read Ugly now to figure out all the excitement around this book... but I will go to the library to and loan it out.

Waste of time, 19 Mar 2008
How very very disapointing, I want my money back!! I couldn't wait to purchase this book but I am so disappointed with the contents, it starts off alright but then it just goes on and on and on about her court appearance and her clients - It is nothing like the first book, I wanted to know more about her mother and her family but there was no mention at all. I really can't understand why Contance wrote this book, unlike the first book this one is so boring.

Fantastic Book, 16 Nov 2008
What a fantastic book - brutally honest with the impression that nothing is held back I admire Clarissa for her strength in eventually facing her problems. She has a lust for life and a great sense of fun as well that makes you wonder what she could of achieved if alcohol hadnt entered her life for so long. An inspiring and interesting read I recommend this book whole heartly!

A vivid and entertaining memoir, 15 Nov 2008
I decided to read this because I enjoyed The Two Fat Ladies so much and my parents once attended medical lectures given by CDW's surgeon father who was well-known as a difficult character. These memoirs are vivid and moving. The chapters which describe her early years, her eccentric family and relationship with her father are the best ones. I found her descriptions of what it is like to be an alcoholic enlightening and certainly gave me an insight into alcohol addiction. The anecdoctal style is both a strength and a weakness of the book. You can almost feel CDW with her larger-than-life personality talking to you herself over a cup of tea; on the other hand the frequent use of colloquialisms and unexplained slang words gets annoying while later chapters suffer from long-windedness. A more thorough editing would have been helpful.

This was utter rubbish, 28 Oct 2008
I quite liked Clarissa Dickson Wright before I read this but I have no time for her now. Her comment that she found it unreasonable that friends wouldn't accept her generosity and as a result she had to stay and eat in places which were much below her usual standards really wound me up. Welcome to the real world. Not all of us have access to an inheritance we can drink away. Not all of us have friends who will put us up for weeks/months at a time. Most of us have to work hard to pay for a roof over our heads, food to eat etc. On top of everything else it was poorly written and dull.

A must read for a thought provoking insight into addictions, 24 Oct 2008
Was thoroughly enjoyable and an eye opener. A very well educated and eloquent lady who tells not only her story but gives us all something to think about. Life is not always as it seems and that is something we would all be better off understanding. So many people judge others and if you want to read something inspiring then this is it. Honest and uplifting to think that there is someone who so obviously "bothers" about helping others. all those who havent given 5 stars need to question their intelligence and humanity - such petty comments I thought!

Not enough beans spilt...., 18 Oct 2008
I love her to bits, and as a vegetarian, she and Jennifer made me eat meat again!

I'm sure there is much more she could written about her life, but a very enjoyable book about the life of a fascinating lady.

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!

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.

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.

beyond ugly, 13 Nov 2008
I too read the first book, and was also going to buy the next book.but saw constance brisco on GMTV and was put off by the way she seemed very stern and cold. yes she has an bad upbringing. but others have aswell but are warmer. I got the impression, for this book was that she wrote it as a money spinner. dont think i`ll bother to buy this now.

Beyond Ugly, 06 Sep 2008
I am an avid fan of "Ugly" and bought this book because I wanted to continue to follow her story. This book to me doesn't seem to contain the same emotional flow as her first. It's a good read and because you're interested in her you want to keep on reading - I just felt it was slightly rushed toward the end. Still worth reading however and I still admire her courage!

I'm sorry but a waste of money, 15 Aug 2008
I purchased the first book and really enjoyed reading it, as I could see where Constance was coming from with having a terrible mother. I had the same issues with my mother and like Constance, I no longer have contact with her.
I looked forward to this book to see how her life was going and while it was a great read to see that she went onto getting her degree in law,the book went on too much about her surgery which made the book boring and made me feel that I wasted my money buying it IMO.
Such a shame as the first book was excellent.

???, 15 Jun 2008
Until just this moment I didn't know this was a sequel to another book. I only read this one.I just couldn't understand all the hype. Best-selling novel!! Why?? I found the voice and the writing really simple. She was so tight lipped about her feelings that I found it hard to relate to her in any way. She would pass over details I thought were important and then all of a sudden mention a big part of her life from out of no where. I didn't get this book. I was expecting something completely different and was really disappointed. I started thinking that as long as you have a horrible back ground and make something of yourself later in life you too can have a best selling novel... even if you can't write that well. I figure if I can write well, but come from a pretty good background, maybe I can have some success too...Levels out that way? Maybe I need to read Ugly now to figure out all the excitement around this book... but I will go to the library to and loan it out.

Waste of time, 19 Mar 2008
How very very disapointing, I want my money back!! I couldn't wait to purchase this book but I am so disappointed with the contents, it starts off alright but then it just goes on and on and on about her court appearance and her clients - It is nothing like the first book, I wanted to know more about her mother and her family but there was no mention at all. I really can't understand why Contance wrote this book, unlike the first book this one is so boring.

Fantastic Book, 16 Nov 2008
What a fantastic book - brutally honest with the impression that nothing is held back I admire Clarissa for her strength in eventually facing her problems. She has a lust for life and a great sense of fun as well that makes you wonder what she could of achieved if alcohol hadnt entered her life for so long. An inspiring and interesting read I recommend this book whole heartly!

A vivid and entertaining memoir, 15 Nov 2008
I decided to read this because I enjoyed The Two Fat Ladies so much and my parents once attended medical lectures given by CDW's surgeon father who was well-known as a difficult character. These memoirs are vivid and moving. The chapters which describe her early years, her eccentric family and relationship with her father are the best ones. I found her descriptions of what it is like to be an alcoholic enlightening and certainly gave me an insight into alcohol addiction. The anecdoctal style is both a strength and a weakness of the book. You can almost feel CDW with her larger-than-life personality talking to you herself over a cup of tea; on the other hand the frequent use of colloquialisms and unexplained slang words gets annoying while later chapters suffer from long-windedness. A more thorough editing would have been helpful.

This was utter rubbish, 28 Oct 2008
I quite liked Clarissa Dickson Wright before I read this but I have no time for her now. Her comment that she found it unreasonable that friends wouldn't accept her generosity and as a result she had to stay and eat in places which were much below her usual standards really wound me up. Welcome to the real world. Not all of us have access to an inheritance we can drink away. Not all of us have friends who will put us up for weeks/months at a time. Most of us have to work hard to pay for a roof over our heads, food to eat etc. On top of everything else it was poorly written and dull.

A must read for a thought provoking insight into addictions, 24 Oct 2008
Was thoroughly enjoyable and an eye opener. A very well educated and eloquent lady who tells not only her story but gives us all something to think about. Life is not always as it seems and that is something we would all be better off understanding. So many people judge others and if you want to read something inspiring then this is it. Honest and uplifting to think that there is someone who so obviously "bothers" about helping others. all those who havent given 5 stars need to question their intelligence and humanity - such petty comments I thought!

Not enough beans spilt...., 18 Oct 2008
I love her to bits, and as a vegetarian, she and Jennifer made me eat meat again!

I'm sure there is much more she could written about her life, but a very enjoyable book about the life of a fascinating lady.

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!


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!

David J. Pelzer's mother, Catherine Roerva, was, he writes in this ghastly, fascinating memoir, a devoted den mother to the Cub Scouts in her care but not to David, her son, whom she referred to as "an It". This book is a brief, horrifying account of the bizarre tortures she inflicted on him, told from the point of view of the author as a young boy being starved, stabbed, smashed face-first into mirrors, forced to eat the contents of his sibling's diapers and a spoonful of ammonia, and burned over a gas stove by a maniacal, alcoholic mom. Sometimes she claimed he had violated some rule--no walking on the grass at school--but mostly it was pure sadism. Inexplicably, his father didn't protect him; only an alert schoolteacher saved David. One wants to learn more about his ordeal and its aftermath, and now he's written a sequel,The Lost Boy, detailing his life in the foster-care system.

Though it's a grim story, A Child Called "It" is very much in the tradition of Chicken Soup for the Couple's Soul and the many books in that upbeat series, whose author Pelzer thanks for helping get his book going. It's all about weathering adversity to find love and Pelzer is an expert witness.--Christine Buttery

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.

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.

beyond ugly, 13 Nov 2008
I too read the first book, and was also going to buy the next book.but saw constance brisco on GMTV and was put off by the way she seemed very stern and cold. yes she has an bad upbringing. but others have aswell but are warmer. I got the impression, for this book was that she wrote it as a money spinner. dont think i`ll bother to buy this now.

Beyond Ugly, 06 Sep 2008
I am an avid fan of "Ugly" and bought this book because I wanted to continue to follow her story. This book to me doesn't seem to contain the same emotional flow as her first. It's a good read and because you're interested in her you want to keep on reading - I just felt it was slightly rushed toward the end. Still worth reading however and I still admire her courage!

I'm sorry but a waste of money, 15 Aug 2008
I purchased the first book and really enjoyed reading it, as I could see where Constance was coming from with having a terrible mother. I had the same issues with my mother and like Constance, I no longer have contact with her.
I looked forward to this book to see how her life was going and while it was a great read to see that she went onto getting her degree in law,the book went on too much about her surgery which made the book boring and made me feel that I wasted my money buying it IMO.
Such a shame as the first book was excellent.

???, 15 Jun 2008
Until just this moment I didn't know this was a sequel to another book. I only read this one.I just couldn't understand all the hype. Best-selling novel!! Why?? I found the voice and the writing really simple. She was so tight lipped about her feelings that I found it hard to relate to her in any way. She would pass over details I thought were important and then all of a sudden mention a big part of her life from out of no where. I didn't get this book. I was expecting something completely different and was really disappointed. I started thinking that as long as you have a horrible back ground and make something of yourself later in life you too can have a best selling novel... even if you can't write that well. I figure if I can write well, but come from a pretty good background, maybe I can have some success too...Levels out that way? Maybe I need to read Ugly now to figure out all the excitement around this book... but I will go to the library to and loan it out.

Waste of time, 19 Mar 2008
How very very disapointing, I want my money back!! I couldn't wait to purchase this book but I am so disappointed with the contents, it starts off alright but then it just goes on and on and on about her court appearance and her clients - It is nothing like the first book, I wanted to know more about her mother and her family but there was no mention at all. I really can't understand why Contance wrote this book, unlike the first book this one is so boring.

Fantastic Book, 16 Nov 2008
What a fantastic book - brutally honest with the impression that nothing is held back I admire Clarissa for her strength in eventually facing her problems. She has a lust for life and a great sense of fun as well that makes you wonder what she could of achieved if alcohol hadnt entered her life for so long. An inspiring and interesting read I recommend this book whole heartly!

A vivid and entertaining memoir, 15 Nov 2008
I decided to read this because I enjoyed The Two Fat Ladies so much and my parents once attended medical lectures given by CDW's surgeon father who was well-known as a difficult character. These memoirs are vivid and moving. The chapters which describe her early years, her eccentric family and relationship with her father are the best ones. I found her descriptions of what it is like to be an alcoholic enlightening and certainly gave me an insight into alcohol addiction. The anecdoctal style is both a strength and a weakness of the book. You can almost feel CDW with her larger-than-life personality talking to you herself over a cup of tea; on the other hand the frequent use of colloquialisms and unexplained slang words gets annoying while later chapters suffer from long-windedness. A more thorough editing would have been helpful.

This was utter rubbish, 28 Oct 2008
I quite liked Clarissa Dickson Wright before I read this but I have no time for her now. Her comment that she found it unreasonable that friends wouldn't accept her generosity and as a result she had to stay and eat in places which were much below her usual standards really wound me up. Welcome to the real world. Not all of us have access to an inheritance we can drink away. Not all of us have friends who will put us up for weeks/months at a time. Most of us have to work hard to pay for a roof over our heads, food to eat etc. On top of everything else it was poorly written and dull.

A must read for a thought provoking insight into addictions, 24 Oct 2008
Was thoroughly enjoyable and an eye opener. A very well educated and eloquent lady who tells not only her story but gives us all something to think about. Life is not always as it seems and that is something we would all be better off understanding. So many people judge others and if you want to read something inspiring then this is it. Honest and uplifting to think that there is someone who so obviously "bothers" about helping others. all those who havent given 5 stars need to question their intelligence and humanity - such petty comments I thought!

Not enough beans spilt...., 18 Oct 2008
I love her to bits, and as a vegetarian, she and Jennifer made me eat meat again!

I'm sure there is much more she could written about her life, but a very enjoyable book about the life of a fascinating lady.

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!


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!

frightening and truly amazing, 07 Aug 2008
A Child Called 'It'

I first read this book 4 years ago whilst on a sun bed in Spain. As soon as I began, I did not put the book down and ended up with bad sunburn.
What an extraordinary and horribly disturbing tale. Dave tells us about the abuse he suffered from his mother, and the distress of his father abandoning him, throwing him into a lonely and lost world. Dave describes the distressing scenarios which we as readers cannot swallow in words - stories of starvation, beatings, mental torture and physical agaony.
The words are written from the perspective of when he was very young, so it is simple to read and very straight forward. As you read his other books you realise how complex he grew to be.
I would only recommend this to people with a strong stomach - ir to those who need their own lives put into a little perspective.

A hard book to like, 07 Aug 2008
As this book is autobiographical you would hate to be too critical. The characters are real as is the plot so what happened happened. However having not ever been a victim of child abuse or had any encounter with its horrors I found this book a little boring. What happened to David was disgusting and this book just chronicles years of abuse and describes in detail many types of torture. After reading it, I said to myself wasn't that dreadful and rolled over and fell asleep without giving it a second thought. I don't think that that is what the author had in mind.

Heartbreaking, 19 Jul 2008
I read one of the most horrific parts of this book on a train, and had to bite my tongue to stop myself from sobbing. The sort of aubse Dave went through doesn't bare thinking about. Don't read this book unless you're prepared for it to leave a perminant mark on you.

Traumatic, 10 Jul 2008
I knew that this would be a traumatic read and subconsciously I have put off reading it. As it has been sitting on our bookshelves for a little over two years I decided I should not put it off for any longer.
It is very short and I read it in its entirety yesterday afternoon. Certainly not a book one reads for pleasure or relaxation. It is not a story just the horrendous facts of a little boys life from the ages of four to twelve. I squirmed in horror as I read this example of the truth being so much scarier than fiction.
Dave Pelzer's young life was a living hell with a Mother who physically and mentally tortured him. She was obviously a very disturbed woman but why was it that his brothers and his Father in particular, were unwilling or unable to stand up to her?
As this all happened over thirty years ago, one can only hope that nowadays such horrific cases of child abuse would never have gone for so long. I really cannot understand why it was so very difficult for the school to rescue David from this situation, which they did eventually. It seemed to take them an eternity to gather the facts they needed! Why oh why did this child not have the strength to take the help that was tentatively offered at various times and just refuse to go home. I believe it was because he was so very very scared that if he did so no one would believe him and he would have ended up a murder victim. It seems to me that against all odds Dave Pelzer showed amazing strength of spirit and survived.
At times it seems unreal and is certainly very disturbing, however child abuse is sadly a reality in our society and for that reason I am glad that I decided to read this account.
I will read the sequel `The Lost Boy' soon as it is also waiting on the bookshelves. It covers the period from age twelve to eighteen, when after his prayers were answered and he was rescued he became a foster child.

I gave this 5 stars not because it was a good book in the literary sense but because it is a bravely related memoir.


A horrific read..., 09 Jul 2008
I bought this book when it first came out and read it in one sitting. It is one of the few books to reduce me to tears in sympathy for the writer.

I thought it took a lot of courage for Dave Pelzer to write this book (and the ones after) as it's obviously not an easy thing to relive never mind write and share with the rest of society.

It is such a heart wrenching account of his childhood and it does make you think how his own mother could be so evil and the amount of child abuse that goes unspoken about as it's still kind of a taboo subject.

The events in this book are horrific and it's hard to believe how a little boy could fight and survive them.

Some of the other reviews of this book go on about the writing style and the editors not doing their job properly but does it need to be written perfectly as long as it gets his message across? As i said before it's not an easy thing to relive never mind write about so who cares if its not fantastically written, read the book for what it is, a terrifying account of child abuse and how one boy managed to get out of the situation and get on with his life no matter how hard it was at times.

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.

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.

beyond ugly, 13 Nov 2008
I too read the first book, and was also going to buy the next book.but saw constance brisco on GMTV and was put off by the way she seemed very stern and cold. yes she has an bad upbringing. but others have aswell but are warmer. I got the impression, for this book was that she wrote it as a money spinner. dont think i`ll bother to buy this now.

Beyond Ugly, 06 Sep 2008
I am an avid fan of "Ugly" and bought this book because I wanted to continue to follow her story. This book to me doesn't seem to contain the same emotional flow as her first. It's a good read and because you're interested in her you want to keep on reading - I just felt it was slightly rushed toward the end. Still worth reading however and I still admire her courage!

I'm sorry but a waste of money, 15 Aug 2008
I purchased the first book and really enjoyed reading it, as I could see where Constance was coming from with having a terrible mother. I had the same issues with my mother and like Constance, I no longer have contact with her.
I looked forward to this book to see how her life was going and while it was a great read to see that she went onto getting her degree in law,the book went on too much about her surgery which made the book boring and made me feel that I wasted my money buying it IMO.
Such a shame as the first book was excellent.

???, 15 Jun 2008
Until just this moment I didn't know this was a sequel to another book. I only read this one.I just couldn't understand all the hype. Best-selling novel!! Why?? I found the voice and the writing really simple. She was so tight lipped about her feelings that I found it hard to relate to her in any way. She would pass over details I thought were important and then all of a sudden mention a big part of her life from out of no where. I didn't get this book. I was expecting something completely different and was really disappointed. I started thinking that as long as you have a horrible back ground and make something of yourself later in life you too can have a best selling novel... even if you can't write that well. I figure if I can write well, but come from a pretty good background, maybe I can have some success too...Levels out that way? Maybe I need to read Ugly now to figure out all the excitement around this book... but I will go to the library to and loan it out.

Waste of time, 19 Mar 2008
How very very disapointing, I want my money back!! I couldn't wait to purchase this book but I am so disappointed with the contents, it starts off alright but then it just goes on and on and on about her court appearance and her clients - It is nothing like the first book, I wanted to know more about her mother and her family but there was no mention at all. I really can't understand why Contance wrote this book, unlike the first book this one is so boring.

Fantastic Book, 16 Nov 2008
What a fantastic book - brutally honest with the impression that nothing is held back I admire Clarissa for her strength in eventually facing her problems. She has a lust for life and a great sense of fun as well that makes you wonder what she could of achieved if alcohol hadnt entered her life for so long. An inspiring and interesting read I recommend this book whole heartly!

A vivid and entertaining memoir, 15 Nov 2008
I decided to read this because I enjoyed The Two Fat Ladies so much and my parents once attended medical lectures given by CDW's surgeon father who was well-known as a difficult character. These memoirs are vivid and moving. The chapters which describe her early years, her eccentric family and relationship with her father are the best ones. I found her descriptions of what it is like to be an alcoholic enlightening and certainly gave me an insight into alcohol addiction. The anecdoctal style is both a strength and a weakness of the book. You can almost feel CDW with her larger-than-life personality talking to you herself over a cup of tea; on the other hand the frequent use of colloquialisms and unexplained slang words gets annoying while later chapters suffer from long-windedness. A more thorough editing would have been helpful.

This was utter rubbish, 28 Oct 2008
I quite liked Clarissa Dickson Wright before I read this but I have no time for her now. Her comment that she found it unreasonable that friends wouldn't accept her generosity and as a result she had to stay and eat in places which were much below her usual standards really wound me up. Welcome to the real world. Not all of us have access to an inheritance we can drink away. Not all of us have friends who will put us up for weeks/months at a time. Most of us have to work hard to pay for a roof over our heads, food to eat etc. On top of everything else it was poorly written and dull.

A must read for a thought provoking insight into addictions, 24 Oct 2008
Was thoroughly enjoyable and an eye opener. A very well educated and eloquent lady who tells not only her story but gives us all something to think about. Life is not always as it seems and that is something we would all be better off understanding. So many people judge others and if you want to read something inspiring then this is it. Honest and uplifting to think that there is someone who so obviously "bothers" about helping others. all those who havent given 5 stars need to question their intelligence and humanity - such petty comments I thought!

Not enough beans spilt...., 18 Oct 2008
I love her to bits, and as a vegetarian, she and Jennifer made me eat meat again!

I'm sure there is much more she could written about her life, but a very enjoyable book about the life of a fascinating lady.

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 a