The author of this book has spent over thirty years working with children of all ages in a variety of settings including boarding schools and children's homes. He does not hold a degree in psychology or have letters after his name. He gained all his paper qualifications while he was doing the job. For those who think paper qualifications are required, the author does hold a certificate of qualification in social work but does not draw on this for the purposes of this book. The book is an alphabetical format so you can use it for reference, or read it cover to cover - it's your choice.