I suspect that most of us have become familiar with the work of James and Joyce Robertson through their films, some of which are extremely upsetting. In parts, this book is equally painful to read. The book is essentially a historical account of their work. As well as detailed discussion of the various films, it includes an outline of their views on the emotional needs of the very young plus a fascinating section entitled, ‘A phase in paediatric history’.

In setting the scene for their subsequent work the Robertsons paint a chilling picture