Dibs in Search of Self: Personality Development in Play Therapy

"My first impressions of the book had me thinking that I was about to start reading a book that was going to be perhaps a bore. The type of book you read when you have little else to do and know that reading it would get it off the 'to-do' list. I'm glad I was wrong about 'Dibs'.

After reading the first few pages I knew that is was going to be one of 'those books'. The type of book that turns out to be an absolute gem when you originally thought it was going to be rubbish: a book that delivers so many things on so many levels and yet does it in a subtle, touching way. Like another reviewer put, I believe that 'Dibs' will certainly stay with me for many years to come because of the power that the tale, in itself, has. There are so many things about it that make it so wonderful -- so read it already!"
~ Written on 2008-01-18

"This book is an excellent example of a case study, of child psychotherapy, that is both interesting and informative about the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship. It illustrates that, with compassion and understanding of the limits of the therapeutic environment, lives can be healed through pyschotherapy. I have re-read this book several times throughout my training and, later, as a practicing counsellor and it always brings me back to fundamental principals of practice with both adults and children."
~ Written on 2007-05-12

"Excellent book which I could hardly put down and have shared it with many friends. Recommended for anyone working with pre-school or infant children, as all children are individuals and some come to nursery/school with social and behavioural problems which they eventually come through with lots of good play experiences and careful handling. Very interesting to see how this very disturbed little boy begins to understand life around him and how he gradually learns how to express himself."
~ Written on 2005-01-10

"I feel I had to respond to a previous review written by Rouse, this book is written mainly for anyone currently learning Person Centred Therapy, especially play therapy. The core conditions used in PCT or Rogers' theory are beautifully displayed here. The therapists acceptance, empathy and realness are the key to unlocking him. Being in my 3rd level and studying at diploma level at present I felt this book should be on the core reading list. It has truly taught me more about PCT and its effects than any other text book.
A delight to read, sad and inspiring, its a cliche but you will not put it down. This is an amazing child who did not have the horrific background as the likes of David Pelzer or Genie but neverless without love, affection and acceptance from his parents managed to shut the whole world out.
It has left me hungry to know of Dibs past the age of 15, so far I cannot find a follow up."
~ Written on 2004-11-19

"This book is about a bright but odd little boy who dreams of burying his father. How do we know this ....because he conveniently verbalises his every thought to his nice lady therapist, and the nice lady therapist repeats everything, just in case we forget. Apparently the therapy sessions work because by the end he has a new dream...poisoning his younger sister."
~ Written on 2004-03-03