I remember some years ago using toothpicks as knitting needles to create a very small knitted jumper front to enhance a scrapbook page I was developing. A friend took one look at the mini creation and remarked laughingly and without hesitation, ‘Oh, bonsai knitting’. Bonsai — an interesting term, adapted by some to suit a variety of circumstances or descriptions (such as my knitting), but actually referring to a miniature shrub or tree, deliberately yet artificially dwarfed by controlling its root area and its food supply. Utilised within the context of this publication, the bonsai child is one whose growth is often stunted and enjoys only limited capacity to reach full potential. New growth and the development of life skills are also inhibited as the child is often sheltered from the very experiences that foster natural growth.

The publication opens with four short quizzes that are designed to determine the parenting style and situations of the individual and help the reader determine whether or not the book might be useful for their particular set of circumstances. It comprises two parts — A and B. Part A considers the various styles of parenting, the concept of the bonsai child, and the effects of a bonsai upbringing. It offers a range of very relevant case examples based upon clinical practice to support the author's position. Part B is dedicated to assisting parents to overcome the bonsai parenting style and offers clear strategies for parents to build and develop the confidence of their child, while helping them to become good company, building resilience and fostering self-regulation, all of which are necessary components for a healthy and productive life. Part B also offers some very concise chapter summaries that provide helpful revision of the content of each chapter.

Locke demonstrates a clear understanding of children and teens and their issues, together with the associated parenting difficulties that can arise as a result. She provides insight into the cause of such issues and offers straightforward advice for those who have unwittingly been drawn into the conflicts that can contribute to significant upheaval and eventually set a pattern for ongoing relational and family challenges.

This publication is particularly easy to read and I would certainly recommend it, even for parents who are relatively comfortable with their parenting style and methods, as it has the capacity to shine a spotlight on some specific areas that could help to fine tune some already positive parenting techniques. For anyone planning a parenting experience, I would suggest this volume as a rather useful first step — one could say a pre-emptive strike, or perhaps tactical manoeuvre — thereby embracing the philosophy ‘an ounce of prevention . . .’.