Too Scared to Tell: Abused and alone, Oskar has no one. A true story.

I love true stories! So many children in the world are abused and so scared to speak up. Oskar finally begins to trust his caregiver and tells her of his abuse.

Started reading Cathy Glass a few years back! I almost have her whole collection on her fostering children!! Amazing books and absolutely love them!! Great read!!

This book was recommended to me by someone involved in the Family Court system in the UK. The book is about an Eastern European boy's experience of the UK care system when he is abandoned by his mother.I'd not heard of Cathy Glass but I now know that she has been a foster carer for many years and writes about the children she has come into contact with. I've not read any books of this genre for many years (since A Child Called It and Angelas Ashes in fact) and have actually been quite shocked how the market seems to have grown so huge. I understand the cathartic nature for someone to be able to write about their trauma but reading about it always feels slightly voyeuristic. The man that told me about this book is a foster carer himself so I thought it was worth trying - maybe I'll be a convert.The book has 309 pages and 29 chapters.I'm really impressed with this author's style. It's the first of her books I've read so know nothing about her and any relevant back story is dealt with quickly but comprehensively. She seems to be able to apply her knowledge without any cynicism which is a joy to see. Sharing understanding seems to be a big part of what drives this author and I would suggest that any prospective carers should read a few of these books to get an idea of day to day obligations along with the positive effects you can have on a child's life.Oskar is just one little boy with his own story but it raises many thoughts about other children in the same situation which I suspect is the effect the author is trying to create.It's the detail that makes the book so hard hitting and genuine - the visits to the contact centre, the medical checkups, the carers daily log and much more.The author is always straight forward which is very reassuring for the reader. She appears to be someone who can see all points of view and is comfortable saying so, whilst, at the same time, she always seems to say the most appropriate thing. You can't help but admire CG in the work that she does and with her attitude to life - not everything is always perfect but it is always "good enough".

Excellent book by Cathy as usual.

I love all of Cathy Glass’s books. Every storyline is different but you can tell she loves each child and has made a difference in their lives. The world needs more Cathy Glass. Read any of her books and you will be hooked.