This inspiring book consists of writings from women of many cultures about initiatives, projects and ways of working to respond to violence. This collection will be powerfully relevant to practitioners working with individuals, families and/or communities whose lives are affected by violence and abuse. It includes practice-based chapters describing narrative ways of working with those who have experienced violence and also creative ways of engaging with men and women who have enacted violence against others.

"In this book, women from many different cultures convey very thoughtful approaches to the task of stepping away from a violent way of living. The therapy work is often precisely described in clear steps that are very accessible for others to use. There are also many detailed examples of types of authentication - documents, outsider witnesses and even international correspondence. Finally, the impact of broader discourses regarding gender roles, femininity and masculinity, as well as the role of racism, are all acknowledged. The chapters of this book will strengthen my resolve."  Norma Akamatsu (USA)

"I really appreciate how the work of women of many cultures to address issues of violence has been documented in this book. Having access to these stories will encourage those of us who are trying to respond to these issues in our own communities. This book challenges us when it asks questions such as:

* Has the professionalisation of our work closed off the possibilities for grass roots community action to address violence against women?

* And if so, how can we turn this around? How can our work support local community initiatives? This collection inspires and challenges. It encourages us, the reader, to notice and support those who are already taking action to address violence. And it encourages us to take action ourselves." Tamalieutu Kiwi Tamasese (Samoa/New Zealand)

"I am left with new hope, new ideas on how community initiatives might help with stopping the escalating violence in homes and neighbourhoods. Such interventions may in the end be our best hope for preventing violence and its devastating consequences." Anita Franklin (UK)