Nancy Verrier has written a critical and vitally important book for all people involved in adoptions. This book contains such far reaching insights that it is crucial that it should be part of the counselling process for those choosing to adopt their child out, (not to pressure a change of heart, Verrier makes no judgements on either those adopting children out nor those choosing to adopt a child.) Adoption, whichever end of the spectrum one is at, is a life changing decision, and in these instances knowledge enables us to make the most informative decision possible; it is this knowledge Verrier imparts so succinctly, one realises early in the book that they are confronting knowldge that is profoundly impactful. I am further convinced Primal Wound should be required reading for all who work in social services specifically with children, and definitely with children who are being uplifted due to their need for personal safety from their parent/s. Verrier imparts an understanding into the psyche of – not only children and babies, but also the inextricable relationship a new born infant has with its birth mother. I am convinced if it becomes required reading for people whose careers are immersed in the heartbreaks of children uplifted from their families, they will at least be armed with insights.