From the Eye of the Storm: The Experiences of a Child Welfare Worker

by Cynthia Crosson-Tower

Crosson-Tower's first-person narrative, interwoven with glimpses of over 20 social welfare system cases, is a combination of engaging storytelling and stark reality. It recounts the early days of her career that spanned more than three decades. After landing a position in the Division of Child Guardianship in Boston, Crosson-Tower is quickly indoctrinated by department manuals, a heavy caseload, and the challenge of dealing with the unexpected. This exceptional window to the role of a social worker reveals unique and turbulent circumstances in which resiliency and sensitivity play a large part. Incisive and discussion-generating "Questions for Thought" instigate readers to pause and consider the practices they would use in each case. Titles of related interest also from Waveland Bibb, Rose's Story, Revised Edition (9781577666622); Iglehart-Becerra, Social Services and the Ethnic History and Analysis, Second Edition (ISBN 9781577666820); Kagle-Kopels, Social Work Records, Third Edition (ISBN 9781577665465); arsons, Fundamentals of the Helping Process, Second Edition (ISBN 9781577667162); and Royse et al., Field A Guide for Social Work Students, Seventh Edition (ISBN 9781478635291).

Genres: Social Work, Nonfiction

151 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2002

Reviews

[Keera.wanders · Rating 2 out of 5]

A course required read- I actually like her textbooks better.

Overall, this book resounded good information and perspective of how the social and child welfare system was during the Mid 1900's or so. The author's testament of her journey was also thought-provoking.

It was also quite judgemental of the clients she'd seen- sometimes out of no where and often times unnecessary Wouldn't read in my own time-but a decent book.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

I work for a company that builds software to help social workers. This book gave me more insight into who uses our software and the problems they face on a daily basis. I would recommend this book to anyone with an interest in becoming a child welfare worker.

[Apzmarshl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good, brief inside look at CPS social work. It's good to remember that you are reading something from years ago so that you aren't judging the writing from the wrong context.

[Breanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I originally read this book when I decided I wanted to go into social work and dealing in the arena of adoption. This book is an excellent read for anyone thinking about going into this type of field as it gives you a true insider look. Granted, it is an account from years ago, but it gives you a great feel for the frustrations and the rewards of doing this line of work.

[KaWoodtiereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent memoir of the first few years of working in child welfare. A definite recommend for anyone working in the social work field or having a general interest.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Buckle up, girl. You’re gonna be a social worker.