Comments

All entries are from emails sent to Cathy, however she cannot be held liable for the validity of the claims made, some of which are very disturbing. Cathy reads all emails and replies to as many as she can.

To add your comments, please email: cathy@cathyglass.co.uk

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Hello Cathy. I'm 13. I have struggled with quite a lot of problems in my life, not as serious as the ones in your books, but none the less they are about broken children. 'Damaged' was my favourite book, mainly because something similar happened to my best friend when she was young. Your books make me understand a lot about the world around me, for instance how in Damaged you said 'some children grow up early'. When you explain things in your books and they relate to me, it makes me feel not alone, accepted. Damaged was a touching read and due to me having a very close friend who suffered something like that, I understood and felt the pain. The endings make me happy though, because it makes me feel that, there are happy endings out there, and children who have suffered can progress, with the right amount of care and love. Cathy you are a truly wonderful person, and even though I don't know you, I love you through your books. Thank you Cathy for making me feel happy, accepted, safe and hopeful
Kelsie, 13, UK, 06/05/2010

Dear Cathy, The Girl In The Mirror is another excellent book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I hope you will be publishing another book very soon. Keep them coming, it's such a highlight to sit down and start on each new book. I enjoyed the different style and you can definitely write fiction as well. Best wishes,
Lovisa, UK, 05/05/2010

Hi, I have read two of your books I can’t wait to read the next. I'm so glad there are carers like you out there. I hope Jodie is still doing well bless her. I couldn't believe what she went through. I'm 18 now and I had my little boy when I was 14. I was scared but my mum helped me through. I hope other mums can do that for their children. You inspire me, Cathy. I hope your children are doing ok. All the best
Leigh-anna, UK, 04/05/2010

Hi, I LOVE every single one of your books. I have read your newest one, 'The Girl In The Mirror'. I loved it so much. I look forward to your new books coming out all of the time. I couldn't put it down, I read it in just over a day despite having a baby to look after. How you can write books like this! When I read them I can imagine the people in them. When I was reading 'The Girl In The Mirror', I could see Mandy’s' Granddad lying in his bed and her Gran sitting next to him. I could feel my heart pounding when she was getting the flash backs and could imagine how hurt she must feel. Thank you so much for your books. I cannot wait for your next book to come out.
Kayley, Newcastle, UK, 03/05/2010

Hello Cathy, I just would like to say that I'm glad that someone like u is living in this world because u make it better for children u have taken care of! I've just read ur books Damaged and hidden. By the looks of it I’m now addicted to ur books.. They are really really good!! I’m moving on to "Cut" next. Just want to say good job!! I’m a fan! You are an awesome human being!
Naim, Singapore, 01/05/2010

Hello Cathy, I have just finished your book "THE GIRL IN THE MIRROR”. It was different from your other books but I enjoyed it very much. I need another book that you have written. Yours sincerely
Pam, 01/05/2010

Firstly, what a pleasure it was to read Hidden after Damaged. Well written both of them, however, I loved Hidden. Reading it I could picture being there with you all the way.
Gareth R, Dorset, UK, 30/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I have just finished reading Damaged, I had to keep stopping as it was so upsetting. I commend you and your family for the courage and strength that you all had to help Jodie. I don't think you were a failure with her, Cathy, I just think she was more of a challenge than social services made her out to be. Looking forward to reading the next one, not sure which one yet, I have Hidden, The Saddest Girl in The World and The Girl in The Mirror. Hope you and your family are well. You really are an amazing woman Cathy! Love to you all
Amy, UK, 30/04/2010

Hi Cathy, Just had to let you know how wonderful I have found your books. I have a son of my own who is not the easiest of children but have found myself inspired by your books to look more logically at problems. It is so easy just to jump in, but from reading your books I can see it is sometimes better to take a step back and think about how he may see a situation. I intend to buy your book Happy Kids which I am sure will be of benefit. Your books are truly well written and I have great admiration for you and your family in all that you do. Kind regards
Lynette A, UK, 30/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I have just finished your book Hidden and am about to start on Damaged. I just wanted to say that I think what you do is just great and your stories are amazing. I even cried when Tayo met his father in the centre for the first time. I look forward to reading all your books and hope that you will keep writing books as they are really great. Thank you for the opportunity to get to know your family and all the children you care for. I am so excited to continue reading your books. I hope your family is well and you are too. Kind Regards
Yashi L, Australia, 29/04/2010

Dear Cathy, I just wanted to extend my thanks for your inspirational books, which I am working my way through. Myself and my partner are going through the assessment process, and hopefully in a couple of months will be approved foster carers. At no point have we viewed fostering as easy, but after reading your books, you have made us aware of things that had not previously entered our heads, and also the wonderful rewards of fostering children. It was quite a daunting feeling at first, as there is so much to do, but now we are really excited and are so looking forward to our first foster child. (fingers crossed) Many thanks again,
Samantha, UK, 28/04/2010

Dear Cathy, I don't even know where to begin telling you what an amazing person you are! I stumbled across your books quite by accident when I borrowed Hidden to read on a plane. I thought it was an amazing story and couldn't wait to read your others. I got them all and pretty much didn't move for three days, I have just finished Damaged and knew that I had to contact you. I know you probably get thousands of e-mails just like mine and I don't expect a reply, I realise you're a very busy lady, but still I thought I had to email you. The way you turn children’s lives around is truly amazing, not just you but your children as well, they are a credit to you. I feel as though I know them all from reading the different stages of their lives. And I feel like I know you! I had very similar problems as Dawn in Cut, and the way you handled her was fantastic, as the way you handle all of the children bought in to your care. Your patience and understanding of everyone’s needs is truly awe inspiring. I can't wait until your next book, (although I think my hubby is glad I've finished them now, he can have some of my attention again!) Warmest regards to you Cathy.
Christina, UK, 28/04/2010

Hi, I have just finished the book Cut, and I could not put it down. It's such a good read and from what I read, you did a fantastic job for Dawn. The book was a real page turner, I just had to know what was going to happen next. One part when she was in the hospital, and when about the past in Ireland put a tear to my eye, thinking to my self, how could any one be so cruel and that to a vulnerable 5 year old. Dawn was really lucky to have found you as a foster carer. You gave her love and patience. I've just started The Saddest Girl in the World, and from what I have read so far, I guarantee it will be as good as Cut.
Nicki, UK, 28/04/2010

Dear Cathy, I have just finished reading Hidden. I enjoyed it so much that I immediately read it again. In the book
Ellie, 11, 28/04/2010

Hello, I have read three of your books now - Cut, Hidden and Damaged. I would just like to say I think you do a wonderful job and each time I get to the end of one of your books I am amazed and truly upset to read about what some children have gone through. Each time I think it can't be worse than the last I am wrong. However in the three books I have read I am happy to know that there is a positive outcome. Well done to you and your family.
Tanya, 25/04/2010

Hi Cathy, Well, what can I say! The Girl in The Mirror was yet another brilliant book. I think possibly the best one. It took me about four days to read, it took my mother 2 days. We just couldn't put the book down. The different perspective on the book was really good, and shows your talents off even more. We are both intrigued however as to where you come in, in the story, i.e. how you have come across it? I thought that maybe you have stopped fostering now and have gone into counselling, and maybe Mandy did get some counselling. I truly hope that things worked out for her and Adam. I think you have another book due out soon so eagerly await that.
Zara, UK, 24/04/2010

CG: Hi Zara, I am so pleased you (and your mother) enjoyed my latest book. I am still fostering. Mandy was a good friend of mine and, yes, she did get counselling. Cathy x
24/04/2010

Dear Cathy, I am writing to say how moved I was with your book Damaged about poor little Jodie Brown. My 2 sisters were sexually abused by my father and I was put into care for my own safety aged 9 years. My sisters are still affected by this 30 years on, so I pray that Jodie can get on with her life after that awful ordeal she suffered at just 7 years old. I know that my story isn’t the same but I praise you for helping children who are in need of someone they can trust and care for them. My sisters didn’t get any counselling which is very sad and I feel social services let them down. I have a daughter now who is so precious to me, and just thinking how anyone can abuse such a wonderful human being is beyond me. I just hope Jodie is getting her life back together and can help others in the same situation. Thank You
Donna P, UK, 23/04/2010

Hi Cathy, just finished Cut this morning. I only bought it last night. My house looks like a bomb site and I’m still not dressed and its 2pm!!! Just wanted to say that you are an amazing person and parent. I was fostered from 9 months old and I can safely say that my parents (foster parents) gave me a wonderful and happy life, compared to what I would have been living with. I was a daughter to them and there was nothing they wouldn’t have done for me!! A bit like yourself, I’m sure they struggled with my behaviour, as when I discovered I was fostered, I rebelled a bit! They had loads of experience as they had 6 older children before they fostered me!! My tip to all other foster carers is this: At the end of the day as a foster parent, you’re the stability and loving home that we never had, or would be getting with our natural parents. Without foster parents and carers, where would we all be?? I would be like my other sisters who stayed with our birth mother, a drunk, drugged up excuse for a human being, stealing and fighting and neglecting my children!! So when the chips are down and it’s been a long hard day of fighting, resisting and hurtful words, remember when u started out and why you started fostering. You are all we have to cling to and that saying is true.......YOU ALWAYS HURT THE ONES YOU LOVE!!!
Maria, UK, 23/04/2010

Reading your book Damaged made me cry. I had so much inspiration from that story. It was amazing. I love your book. Please email me back.
Jasmine, 22/04/2010

Dear Miss Glass, I have read all Ur books except Cut. I have to say thank you for being you. I think if we had more people like u this world would be a much better place. I wanted to say you have raised some wonderful kids of your own. They seem like very well rounded kids. Thanks again, the books are great. Look forward to reading Cut and your others  
Laura R, Toronto, Ontario, USA, 22/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I just wanted to say I have just finished reading The Saddest Girl in the World. My partner has read  your others and says they all good. I am 20 years old, I work as a support worker for children with autism  and have done a bit on child protection and have been thinking of foster caring (as has my partner since reading your books). But if we foster and do half as good a job as you did with Donna I'll  be pleased. I can't begin to imagine how hard it is when children leave. I am glad Donna is  happy!  And for you to know that you made a difference to her life. Even when Paula and Adrian were young they were a credit to you, which shows you were always going to be an excellent foster carer. I only  hope you continue writing. Thank you for sharing Donna’s story  with me, I was really upset whilst reading  it and probably convinced me to start foster caring!
Bobby, 20, 19/04/2010

Hi Cathy I’ve just started reading your books and can’t put them down. I love all your books and will need to keep my eye out for new ones.  Your books speak the truth in some families which no one can understand. I have a good and a bad past but would rather get on with the good in my life. I have a wonderful boyfriend who loves and cares for me and would do anything for me.  Your books make me want to foster kids to help them to get on with life and not dwell on the past. You have inspired me to want to help kids. I have always wanted to work with kids but have never had the confidence but after reading your books makes me feel I can make a difference. Thanks for all your help Cathy and keep fostering kids you’re a brill person and I hope to read more of your books.
Heather, 21, UK, 19/04/2010

I think you are truly an amazing woman. I would also like to become a foster carer. Not long ago I had a major operation and I was given a lot of books to pass the time. I was given the book Hidden and I must say I read it in two days, I couldn't put it down. Its sad to think there are children out there like Tayo but its a blessing to know there are people like you out there to help. As soon as I am well enough and able to leave the house I am going to go and buy all of your books, I know you don't have time to reply to most emails but I just wanted to thank you for a great read and keeping me from being very bored. Thanks. 
Krissy, UK, 17/04/2010

Hey Cathy, I’m sending this email all the way from Africa. This is mainly to say I'm impressed with your writing. I have read Damaged, awesome excellent, perfect to read. At the moment I’m reading "The Saddest Girl In The World" which is very interesting. Cathy I really respect you and your work. Last but not least I would like to ask that you reply this E-mail. Thank you for your time.
Fabio J, 13, Mozambique, Africa, 17/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I'm a psychology Major at University and came across your book "Damaged" while browsing around for additional research material. I must tell you that your book absorbed me utterly mind and soul, and I could not stop crying for the entire afternoon that I read it. I thought about it for weeks on end afterwards and realized how much of an effect the tale of  Jodie had on me. I cannot emphasize how much empathy and pain I felt when I envisioned this small and broken little child and I have an unfathomable amount of admiration for you and your family. Despite the immense sadness one feels when hearing about these horrifying cases, it is always a warm comfort knowing there are devoted, and selfless individuals such as yourself who do not hesitate to provide unconditional affection and love to those who need it the most. Being in the field of tertiary education I am in, you are always exposed to learning about a variety of abuse and many degrees of it - and I completely understand the feeling of becoming too emotionally involved and also exhausted dealing with the traumatic results of torture in such young victims. You are a truly exceptional, incredible woman Cathy, and with a huge heart of strong gold. I salute you, and my heart goes out to Jodie who is brave enough to embrace and build the new life she absolutely deserves.
Anna M, New Zealand, 17/04/2010

Hey Cathy I think your books are amazing. I’ve have read all 4 of them. I really enjoyed reading them and I can’t wait till the others come out. You are an amazing foster carer and you have interested me in doing that kind of thing.
Danielle, UK, 16/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I bought Damaged when I was stuck at the airport waiting to fly to Ibiza back in Oct 2007. I was in Ibiza for a week and couldn’t put it down. Since then I have read Hidden (which I have 2 say made me cry), Cut, Saddest Girl in the World and your latest novel The Girl in the  Mirror which I only finished yesterday 15/4/10 and already I can’t wait for your next book to come out. I have to say what you do as a foster carer is amazing and it takes a special person like yourself to do the job. I would also like to say that even though The Girl in the Mirror is not about you fostering a child I still couldn’t put it down in fact it took me 3 days to read it. Keep up the good work Cathy and I can’t wait for your next book.
Debbie, UK 16/04/2010

Hello Cathy. I finished reading The Girl in The Mirror late last night, after spending much of the day reading it. I found I couldn't put it down, which I have found with all of your books. I think you are a great author and foster carer. I hope to be reading more of your books as soon as they are out. You’re doing a great job, keep it up.
Jade, UK, 15/04/2010

Hi, Cathy I bought Damaged on Monday and read it all in one day. The ending made me cry, so touching. Good luck for the future!
Laura, 11, UK, 14/04/2010

Hi Cathy can I just say what fantastic books u write.
Kendra, 14/04/2010

Hi Cathy I have just finished reading the book hidden and thought it was brilliant, you are such an inspiration. It has taken me 3 days to read Damaged and Hidden, I have also read Cut and plan on ordering your others. I am just leaving sixth form and plan on going to university to become a social worker. I was worried that this wasn't the right choice but since reading Damaged and seeing the problems you encountered with that social worker I have realised that this is something I definitely want to do and hope I can be as good as the social worker in Hidden. You are a brilliant role model and a complete inspiration and I love the way in which you write making your books easy read, and I look forward to reading the rest of your books. This is just a thank you really for writing your books as it has helped point me in the right direction for my future career.
Charlotte M, UK, 14/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I wanted to email you to congratulate u and tell u what an amazing person you are! I have read all your books and am waiting for the next one to come out. I have been through childhood experiences similar to some you have no doubt come across in your line of work and I know that having someone to help makes a big difference. I am currently pursuing my degree in child psychology and social work and hope to help children who need that little bit extra to give them the best possible future. You have inspired me so much and are amazing for what you do.
Charlotte, UK, 14/04/2010

Dear Ms Glass You are a truly amazing woman and its thanks to your book 'Damaged' that I would like to become a foster carer.   It must be so hard to stay neutral when you find out things like what happened to young Jodie first hand. I was given 'Damaged' by my friend  Natalie and after starting to read it I could not put it down. I finished it two days later. After reading 'Damaged' I would like to get your full works. I am so proud to say you are a member of the British public. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me an idea of what to do with my life in the future. It is an idea I never thought about because I knew the abuse some children go through but I never thought that the abuse could get so bad. 
Gems, 22, UK, 13/04/2010

Dear Cathy, I have taken a 2.30 hr drive to another city to get a hold of your book Damaged in Abu Dhabi. I read it in one day and was done by 3.00am. Everything that was mentioned in the book had me in tears for hours! I could not imagine the pain and torture that this little girl has to go through! How could there be people that are so cruel to children, let alone their own! There where so many situations in which I wished I could walk into the book and hug her and tell her that one day, all the horrible people in her life will be punished forever! You are sincerely a Saint and have a patience of a non-existing person. I hope that everyday in your life will be filled with love, warmth, happiness and success just like the way you fill other people's life. May God give you everything that you wish for, for you deserve nothing less... God Bless You and your kind family. I have also grown very fond of Lucy, Adrian and Paula who have not shown a single act of cruelty or selfishness in their lives and just like you, tried all their best to make your house a warm home for all the kids that you foster. You have surely raised angels! From your books, I have noticed that you liked visiting places that have a lot of sunshine and beach. Please accept my offer of once considering to visit the UAE. It is a beautiful place and a lot of activities that continuously happen. I live in Abu Dhabi, the capital and I would love to take you, your kids and the foster child around when you are here. Again, may God Bless You and all your loved ones. I now have started my search of your book: The Girl In The Mirror for I will no longer be able get off the addiction of reading your beautiful books. Warmest Regards to you and the kids
Sandra, Abu Dhabi, UAE, 13/04/2010

Hi Cathy,  Just felt I had to write to you for so many reasons. I am just about to go to panel to be approved as a foster carer and have now read all your books to date. Just finished Hidden and was thrilled to see Tayo had a chance to get the life back he so desperately craved. I have found your books have been so helpful in what fostering is "really like" and has given me a great head start in how to manage challenging behaviour. My dad and stepmum have and still are fostering for the past 10 yrs so have had many experiences with foster children, many I can relate to some of the children in your books although none to the degrees you have experienced. I am just about to start on "Happy Kids" to give me a few more ideas and tips although my son is very well behaved so I must be doing something right! Lovely to see the updates on the children from your books and how you made such a difference to their lives. I hope I can do the same. I look forward to reading your next books - keep up the good work, you are an inspiration. Kind Regards,
Belinda H, Norfolk, UK, 12/04/2010

Hiya Cathy, I couldn’t put The Girl in the Mirror down. It was a really good read. I had to keep turning pages to see what happened next. Hope you and your family are all well.
Chris S, UK, 12/04/2010

Hi Cathy:   It is so amazing how fast I received your latest book especially since it came from the UK. I ordered it from your web site because Amazon.com in the states still has it screwed up for ordering. Have been reading it continually but have a bad habit of reading too late and then feeling yucky in the morning so had to pace myself with this book. Already wrote a review, though and can't wait for more of your writing.  God's blessings for a wonderful week and I know this latest achievement will be a best seller around the world. An avid fan:
Linda R, USA, 12/04/2010

Hi Cathy I have just read your book Damaged and I never felt so much after I have read a book. Just wanna tell you to keep up your good work. I work with kids with ADHD, Asbergers syndrome. Thank you so much!! That you care.
Torbjorn, Sweden, 11/04/2010

Hi  I have just finished reading your book "The Saddest Girl in the World" and I must say how amazing and heart wrenching it really was. You must be so proud of your children for being so understanding towards the problems foster children have gone through. I even cried at the part where they said that they would make Donnas' party extra special for her. Cathy, you are a truly tremendous writer. From your books I have figured out what to do when I finish college. I am taking a year out to do voluntary work then after trying to do something to help people. I know I can't save the world; but I sure can try.
Becky P, 15, UK, 11/04/2010

Hi there Cathy I have just finished reading The Saddest Girl in the World and thought it was absolutely marvellous, it actually made me cry. I think you are a wonderful woman and people like you should have more recognition for what they do. I think it is appalling that women like Donna’s mum are allowed to have children. I am going to buy your other books soon. Keep up the good work Cathy. Best regards 
Julie, UK, 11/04/2010

Heyyah Cathy, I have read The Saddest Girl in the World and Damaged and I think you are a great foster carer also a great author. I would like to say thank you as at school we are thinking about jobs we would like to do in the future and I was finding it really hard to pick a job but after I read your books it has made me want to work with children in care. I think your books and the work you do are amazing. think you should make some of them into films, also I hope you bring out more books as they are very interesting. Thank You from
Lauren, UK, 07/04/2010

Hello Cathy! Until this year I could count how many books I'd read in the past 10 years on one hand.  My husband Anthony and I were married in January and his mother bought us Kindles for Christmas, right before the wedding. With all the planning and details going on I didn't get a chance to read a single book or download one until the last day before returning back home - our wedding was in New York and we live in Colorado.  I only read true stories, just can't seem to get into that fantasy and made up stuff.  Damaged was recommended to me on my Kindle, so thank you Amazon Kindle for introducing me to your work.  I have read Damaged, Cut, and I finished Hidden last night. I’ve just started The Saddest Girl in the World.  We don't have children and I wasn't abused as a child or lived a very hard life thank God.  I was never involved in foster care or really remember knowing anyone who was.  Basically I have no real life connection to the situations you write about but I find it extremely enlightening
Anne-Marie R, Colorado, USA, 07/04/2010

Hi, I recently read your book on Cut and I was very inspired by it. As I read I thought that girl took advantage of you. But I realised she had problems, which you eventually helped her with. I thought you were a remarkable young lady. Would be nice if you replied back to this email. Kind regards.
Miss medley, 07/04/2010

Dear Cathy, I am contacting you from the UAE. I have read The Saddest Girl in the World, Hidden and Cut in less than 2 weeks! Please allow me to tell you that you truly have a heart of pure gold, you deserve all the best in life and I really hope that you get it! I sincerely believe that people like you hardly exist if ever! You have the ability to take in a stranger and turn them into a very important family member, that is surely a talent a very few people posses. You are a source of love, happiness, care, comfort and safety to every kid that had stepped in your life. Your home was theirs and you always made sure to be by their side whenever they needed it. I got really attached to your stories and felt involved with your family and really appreciated every written word! I hope Adrian, Lucy and Paula are doing well and I'm sure that all 3 of them inherited all the good traits in you. If I had the choice I would nominate you to a special prize for you really deserve it. Hope I hear from you and please send my warmest regards to all the kids and special thanks for yourself, simply for being the beautiful person you are. Kind regards,
Sandra, UAE, 07/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I bought your book, The Girl in the Mirror from Asda on Friday. It’s one great book and I can’t put it down. Could you please email me again when your next book comes out. Many thanks and take care.
Elaine, UK, 06/04/2010

Dear Cathy, I am a foster carer in Australia and have only just started reading your books. Generally I do not read. Have not found the need nor the time as a carer’s life is always so busy. I have three foster children and four of my own at home. I could not never care. I started writing my own life story and am up to about chapter four. I was sexually abused as a child and then chose an abusive partner. Thank you for sharing what you have learnt with all of us. I think it helped my mother in-law to understand my husband and myself better (she lent me Hidden). I will read the whole series. I am addicted now. Thank you for giving me a love of reading.
Jodie W, Australia, 05/04/2010

Hi Cathy I have read Hidden and I've just finished Cut, I'm just starting Damaged. I think that Cut is very sad, and Hidden is very sad as well but it has a great ending. In Hidden, there was a girl called Lucy who lived with you. She went to College, is she a foster child or one of your own children? I was just wondering. I hope you had a great Easter and I would really much appreciate it if you write back!
Naomi, UK, 05/04/2010

CG: Hi Naomi, Lucy was a foster child whom I went on to adopt. There is more about her in my other books. Very best wishes, Cathy x
05/04/2010

Hi Cathy! I have just finished reading Damaged and could not put it down. It is appalling what happened to Jodie and broke my heart, I have also read Cut and have Hidden on order. I just found your website and have found your list of books and will have them all on order by tomorrow afternoon! Cathy you are an inspiration and an amazingly strong woman. I would also like you to let your children know how amazing and strong they are. To grow up and support and accept your foster children is wonderful and I believe your children have enormous hearts and are as inspirational as you are! You are a blessing from up above.  
Evie H, Australia, 05/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I bought your book, The Girl In The Mirror, today to read on the train back to Uni...and I found I couldn't do any work till I'd finished it! I'm not ashamed to admit that I openly cried whilst reading it. If you can get a message to other parents out there with this book, then you have worked wonders. There's nothing worse than family members who don't want to believe that something has happened. Hope you have a good Easter.
Kally B, UK 03/04/2010

Hi Cathy, just finished reading The Girl in the Mirror. I definitely found it very very moving for lots of reasons, mainly because of what happened to Mandy and nothing being done about it. Also the way her granddad suffered in the final few weeks, and the other victims that were abused. Fantastic book.
Adam H, UK, 03/04/2010

Dear Cathy, from today I have decided to change my life, to make a difference, because that is what I want ...to make a difference like you did. Every spare minute I have dedicated to your books, I shared your laughter and tears. I love all the emotion you put into your books and it has given me more reason to follow my heart. I am going to be a Social Worker and thanks to you and your magic I know I will be a very good one. I thank you Cathy and I am looking forward to read your next book. God Bless you, you are the best. Lots of Love
Stefania, 03/04/2010

Finished reading The Girl In the Mirror last night it was GREAT I don’t usually like "novels" much, but this one really kept my interest and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I hope you and all your family have a great Easter weekend
Debra, 02/04/2010

I am enjoying reading 'The Girl in the Mirror' and finding it another book I find difficult to put down. I will write a short review on Amazon when I have completed the book. I love the descriptive element; everything is so well described that I can almost feel that I am actually there. I am engrossed in the story at the moment and just can't wait to get back to the book. I had to put it down last night as D arrived to see us. We fostered him about five years ago. D was an unaccompanied asylum seeker, a Kurdish boy from Iraq, and could not speak a word of English when he arrived. I am very proud to see he is speaking very fluent English as my husband spent a lot of time helping him and he also had a wonderful English teacher at school. D is about 20 years old now and works in a restaurant. He called round on my husbands' birthday and insisted on taking us out for a meal which we both thought was very nice. He thinks a lot of my husband and looks on him as his English Dad. It is nice to know you have helped someone along the way.
Christine, UK, 02/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I have just finished reading "Damaged". If seems the wrong analogy to say that I enjoyed reading it, but I can't think of a better way of putting it. I spent most of my reading time crying, poor poor Jodie! Trying to get your head round the fact that there are sick people out there that will do that kind of thing is bad enough, without it being the child’s parents! I hope that as Jodie had gotten older she has been able to reach some normality. Once again you have shown great love to someone so in need of it, and at the cost of your own health and wellbeing. You are a remarkable lady! Your latest book has just been released and I am awaiting its arrival. I have passed on all of your books to my mother and mother-in-law who have both "enjoyed" them as much as I have. I am curious as to what your children have gone on to do with their lives. Having that kind of environment must have had an effect on them, and I wonder if they are perhaps teaching or something... They are also a credit to you. You have managed to bring them up to respect all that has happened and to have to share your time with other children. They must be very proud of you! Kindest regards and admiration.
Zara, UK, 01/04/2010

Hi Cathy, I wrote to you last month when I first read ‘Damaged’. Since then I have read Hidden and Cut and am now waiting for my delivery of ‘The Saddest Girl in the World’. I have been in tears with all the books I have read so far and only finished Cut last night and was in flood of (happy) tears. You are such an inspiration it is untrue! I work with quite a lot of young people who self harm and can totally relate to your books. I cannot wait to read the rest of your books. I am kind of becoming addicted to your books! Take care. Kind Regards
Nicola W, UK, 29/03/2010

Hi Cathy, I have just finished Damaged. My God I couldn't stop crying. It was horrible and unforgiveable of the parents and others that did that to Jodie. And there was me fighting for my children's lives, when people do that they should have these nasty things done to them. Thank the Lord you saved her to get treatment, hope she is getting better, give her a cuddle from me and my family. As I well know about special needs as my son has been statemented and has delayed development from spending his first 13 months of life in hospital. When he was in intensive care on about the 10th time, a little boy was next to him 18 months old. The police were there, his mother crying her eyes out. Loads of people about, mainly police. I presumed that the child had been in an accident but later found out that the mother’s boyfriend had kicked him nearly to death. Sadly the little boy died. I was so angry I was fighting for my sons survival and they had killed theirs. I had to leave before I said anything. Thank you once again Cathy you have been sent from above as an "Angel" you are a credit to society. Take care
Bridget S, 28/03/2010

To Cathy, I have just finished reading your book, The Saddest Girl in the World, and I was really upset to think that things like that do go on in the world. I do sit back and wonder why. You are an inspiration to us all to take in these poor children. I do hope that Donna is doing well and is having a great life. I am now looking forward to reading another book of yours. Thank you so much for sharing these sad stories with us. Yours sincerely
Christine G, Melbourne, Australia, 27/03/2010

Dear Cathy, I am half way through your book Damaged and I just have to say that I bought it on Thursday and I can not put it down. I will be going out to get the other books next week. I am 21 and know how it feels for some of these children as my father was an alcohol and I have been through some rough times myself. Although my grandparents were there to take in me and my brothers so we didn't have to experience going into care, which I am truly grateful of. When I am a bit older and wiser I would like to care for children myself and reading your books hasn't put me off but in fact making me want to help more. I am not only inspired by how much you help children but I think your books and how you write is amazing. Not only are you a great writer and carer but I also want to tell you that your a fantastic mother to your children, Paula, Lucy and Adrian also. I will write you again once I have read all your stories. Thank you so much for opening a new world up to me and giving me more wisdom and inspiration that I could ever ask for.
Mandy, 21, Manchester, UK, 26/03/2010

Cathy, Hi! I am a Child Protective Services Worker in Charleston, West Virginia, USA. I just want you to know that I was heart broken when I read Damaged. I know I deal with it everyday. You have opened my eyes to someone else's feelings and ideals about the situations that both you and I deal with frequently in our jobs. You as a foster carer and me, as a social worker. I am so sorry you had a negative experience when dealing with "Jodie's" social workers. As soon as I put down the book, I prayed. I prayed that "Jodie" has a social worker that cares. That "Jodie" can find some normalcy in her life. I think the entire book was great... and I cried a great deal... but what made me cry the most was when she was running and playing with her friend at the school carnival. You are a wonderful person. I wish there were tons of people like you in this world. Reading your books, I hope, has opened the eyes of those who do not do this every day. Those who feel that they have not gotten through to the child, more than likely have. Thank you for sharing your story with the world.
Heather B, West Virginia, USA, 25/03/2010

Hi Cathy, I have just finished reading 'Cut' which is the third of your books I have read (I have read 'Hidden' and 'The Saddest Girl in the World'). I couldn't believe the danger the social worker put your baby in, not giving you the facts, and just how blasé she was with you, especially not allowing you to set your own rules. How did she ever think you could do a proper job otherwise!? I'd like to think all that has changed now. I hope that Dawn is leading a fulfilled life. You have done such an amazing job for all the children, and you should be proud of yourself. There are not many people who could do what you have done, and with young children of your own too! I am currently awaiting the arrival of 'Damaged' and your new book. Anyway, I just felt like sending you my love and best thoughts. A job well done.
Zara, UK, 24/03/2010

Hello Cathy, I am 13 years of age and I am writing to you because I have just read your book "The Saddest Girl in the World". It touched me a lot. Since finishing the book I have thought about Donna a lot. I hope she is happy with her new family. I feel like I have become very close to Donna through reading your book Thank you Love
Megan, 13, 24/03/2010

Hi, I am a Norwegian woman who have just read the book about Jodie. Fantastic book, about a fantastic foster carer and a child who really could not get a better foster carer than you. It was heart breaking to read about what Jodie went through before she came to you. Hope you both are doing well. I would very much like to read all your books when they are in Norwegian. Kind regards
Tina L, Norway, 23/03/2010

I have read your books Hidden and Damaged and am in the process of reading Cut. Jodie's story was so touching, but my heart really went out to Tayo. Hidden made me cry more times than one book has ever. The things he went through with his mother were unbelievable. I felt bad in a way for his mother because one of my children is in foster care. Being a parent of a child in foster care you become angry with the foster carers when we should really be thankful for people like you. Thank you Cathy for the astonishing work.
Crystal, USA, 22/03/2010

Dear Cathy, I have just finished reading Hidden and I felt compelled to write to you. I honestly couldn't put the book down. I just feel that as happy an ending as it had, it is such a shame that stories like this actually happen. I'm so glad Tayo got his happy ending and it was lovely to read updates on your website. I am a teaching assistant in a school for children with severe autism and learning difficulties which I absolutely love so I can understand your love of children and wanting to make a difference. Anyway, I'm sure you have many emails and letters to read through so I’ll end by saying that you truly are an inspiration.
Kathryn, Chorley, Lancashire, UK, 22/03/2010

Dear Cathy, Your book Damaged has touched my heart for Jodie and so many children like her. All children need to be cherished and valued as humans. Not objects for selfish monsters to use as they wish. I cried many tears while reading about Jodie, but how many tears has Jodie cried and only God knows the pain. It is a story that needed to be told. God Bless You Cathy for helping Jodie and for being a foster parent. Thank You,
Sherri R, Jacksonville, North Carolina, USA, 20/03/2010

Hi, I started reading Damaged after my foster carer bought it and said it was a very good book and that some of the stuff she could relate to as she herself was once a social worker. She has told me countless stories about cases she had but could not go into much detail due to the obvious confidentiality. She said that Damaged was similar to some cases she had worked on. I began reading when we were on the plane flying back from Gran Canaria and I could not stop, for the entire four hours I was reading it. I could say I was repulsed by the things 'Jodie' did but I understood most of it due to some of the things I have heard from my foster carer. I think that us looked after children get a bad stigma due to some of the things the minority of us do. Your books show people that it is not the majority of us that act that way and most of the time it is through no fault of our own. I would like to tell you that personally I have only ever had one placement and it has been for four years and my foster carer is as tenacious and committed as you. Overall, I think Damaged is an amazing book. Thank you.
Marc, UK, 20/03/2010

Hi Cathy, I have just finished reading your book Hidden and luckily for me have Cut and Damaged ready to start. I am a child protection social worker and reading Hidden reminds me of so many cases I have managed over the years. It was interesting to see if from the foster carer's eyes rather than the social workers. Your writing flows beautifully and leaves the reader wanting to turn the next page wondering what will happen on the next page. I just wanted to write to say well done and hope you manage to get more published. It gives people insight into the life of children in care and what baggage they can arrive with when placed. Regards,
Jane K, UK, 19/03/2010

Hi Cathy, I have just read ‘Damaged’ for the second time and want to thank you for this amazing book. I was in a similar situation to Jodie with my step-dad but nowhere near as bad, thank god. It’s books like these that give me the therapy I need and which I have never been offered. My mum and I are not in contact and have not been since I became a mum which is sad but In a way this helps me to recover as I still am. Keep up the fantastic work. Best wishes
Cheryl, UK, 17/03/2010

Hi Cathy, I have spent today reading your book 'Damaged' about Jodie who sounds adorable even though she has had an absolute shocking childhood until she found you. Fate brought her to you and you have helped her on the road to recovery as much as you could. You are an inspiration and you have made me re think about foster carers and made me think that possibly there is decent social workers out there (Jill) but in my short experience I have only seen the majority who took my faith away from them. My grand-daughter L got taken away from my daughter (B) last year. I have never to this day had a phone call from social services to ask if I would have cared for her. My daughter is wonderful and a very good mum, she is now only 21, and a single mum. She used to be a fighter but since her daughter has gone she will not stand up to anyone anymore. She has proved that she has never hurt her daughter, but has been honest and never lied to social services. L is our life but she is a very difficult child with very demanding caring. She would often throw herself on the floor and head butt things, pull her hair and scream and punch and kick you if she couldn't get her way. Myself and my daughter used to hold her how you describe holding Jodie with cuddles afterwards and soothing words. The nursery rang social services who immediately got a paediatric doctor to look at her who immediately made the decision to remove L from my B’s care. The rest is history really, my daughter is doing as she is told by social services but doesn't seem to get anywhere fast, lots of false promises and in my opinion don’t seem to care. The decision was taken at the same time baby P was in the news and I believe L is the back lash. I was refreshed to read the way you discipline and talk quietly to Jodie these are all things I was taught with my son's behavioural problems. To date she has only just been allowed to have L home one night a week, but she also has lost faith in the social service system. There are children out their that need serious help and in my opinion the foster carers that look after L allow her to call them mummy and daddy (it has been done in front of B on numerous occasions but B will not 'rock the boat') I just pray and hope that sense prevails and they let L come back to her family before she gets any more emotional problems, which in my opinion she will undoubtedly have as she is pulled from pillar to post for no reason. Thank you for restoring a little of my faith, you are a wonderful mother and foster carer. All my wishes and respect to all your family, yourself and of course Jodie x x
Tracey, 17/03/2010

Just a short letter to say thanks for all you share with us. I've read all your books and loved them, but The Saddest Girl in the World was the first to make me cry. Not out of sadness but joy that all is on the up for Donna. You are an amazing person and the world would love more like you. A massive fan
Julia, Cumbria, UK, 16/03/2010

Hi Cathy, I have just finished reading your book 'Damaged' and cried most of the way through, all the more so because I fostered a little girl very similar to your Jodie in quite similar circumstances. The only difference is, the authorities put my Eva back with the family that abused her - because to properly address her needs was 'too hard' (and costly) for them. When I realised what they planned to do I frantically searched for another option for her - and came up with one (a special school during term but with us during holidays, so at least she got the help/support she needed and my kids and I got some respite) - but by then it was too late. The stories I could tell about Eva... and I will, one day (like you, I kept a constant journal). Eva left my care over 10 years ago and I have heard nothing of her since, despite repeatedly writing to her and asking for news. It seems as a mere foster mother I am not important (but I am fairly sure Eva would see it differently given the improvements in her wellbeing while she lived with me). Letting it go has been hard but necessary, and I am so glad to read your story with a semi happy ending for Jodie. People can be so inexplicably cruel to children and foster carers see the results of that, so I'm glad you are raising awareness via your books. God bless you and your wonderful children, keep up the good work. Yours sincerely,
Ms Robyn H, Australia, 16/03/2010

Hi Cathy, You have probably had many emails over the years that say what I am going to say - I think you are fabulous, an inspiration to us all. Reading your books has brought tears to my eyes, but also happiness that these children were fortunate enough to be placed with you. You have proved time and time again that you are an angel in some testing times with all your children. I only wish that you could bottle what you have got and give it to others. As a mum of 3 I can understand how hard it must be for you at times but I honestly don’t think I would be able to do what you have done. You are fabulous, your books are fabulous
Michelle F, UK, 15/03/2010

Dear Cathy: It has only been the last few months that I've found your books, after reading Damaged I had to get the rest. You truly are a gift from God to so many, and your writing brings your readers right into your home. I live in Sioux Falls, SD USA and my job is in a transit setting with many homeless and abused children coming through our doors daily. These books really opened my eyes to the world I live in, too. You are an inspiration to the fostering community and we sure could use your expertise in that system in this country as way too many kids fall between the cracks. God bless you for your sharing your experiences and I'm ordering the Happy Kids book as soon as I send this email! One of your newest and most appreciative fans,
Linda J R, USA, 14/03/2010

Dear Cathy, I have just finished your 4th book, The Saddest Girl in The World. At the end of all your books I have to be alone because I always cry. I just feel for these children. My goodness what a great job you do, I never thought fostering was like that. yours
Pam N, 14/03/2010

Dear Cathy, I am writing to let you know that I bought your book Happy Kids and found it to be very informative and interesting. I am looking forward to reading your next book. I have read all your books and must be one of your biggest fans. I think it is because I have been a foster carer for over twenty two years that I can relate to a lot of the books you have written. My husband and I plan to retire next year and I am in the process of writing my own life story. As well as being a foster carer I have also been in the care of the local authority myself and have been both sides of the fence, so to speak. I think in some ways it has helped me understand more of how the young people feel, and given me the ability to relate to them and the problems they have. I have only just finished writing my second chapter although the story is complete but needs writing up in book form. I know it is not always easy to get published but nothing ventured nothing gained. I am lucky in the fact that my daughter has a 2.1 BA Hons Degree in English Literature and she has been a great help to me. I admire you so much and all that you have achieved. Thanking you for your kind attention. Yours faithfully,
Christine T, UK, 13/03/2010

Hi Cathy I hope you are well. I am just reading The Saddest Girl In The World. I am going away in April to Vegas and I know you have a another book out soon. Please could you tell me when, as I would like to buy it before I go away if poss. I do hope it’s before I go. How’s Donna doing and the rest of the ones you looked after?
Lynn, UK, 12/03/2010

CG: Hi Lynn, I hope you have a lovely holiday. Vegas! Lucky you! Donna is still doing very well. I have added updates about her (and the other children) to my website – on the relevant book page. Yes, I do have another book coming out before you go away. The Girl in The Mirror is out 1st April. It can be pre-ordered on amazon, there is a link on my website. I hope you enjoy it. Cathy x
12/03/2010

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