In an extensive update to reflect the recent developments in theory and practice, the new edition of Understanding Social Work covers the basics in an easy-to-comprehend style. It is an ideal preparatory text for those considering a career in social work, students just starting their degree and in preparation for the first placement.
As a social work student, this book helped me understand the complexities of social work and its inherent challenges. Social work changes because of societal factors, and it really taught me the basis of social work. This book isn't here to give you a clear-cut way to be a social worker, but rather to think about your values and how to proceed as a social worker.
This book had some spelling errors, and I have an issue with "This chapter will teach you..." so that is why I gave it a four rather than a five. Other than that, I recommend this book to social work students or current social workers. However, people who aren't in the UK one of the chapters will not apply to you.
As someone who was interested in pursuing a career in social work, I picked up this book as a means to become better acquainted with the practice, before beginning my first semester. It is informative, honest, and gives good direction to further readings that can enhance the understanding of the philosophical challenges in the profession. This is a great supplement to any introduction to social work course.