This is a very welcome text that examines informal caring from a holistic perspective, exploring the emotional and social implications of caring and the impact of societal and professional attitudes on carers. Theoretical perspectives and research findings are integrated well, supported by plentiful examples of real life experiences. It includes a good mix of studies and each chapter is well referenced for readers who wish to explore particular aspects in more depth... The content is informative, refreshing and challenging to existing attitudes to carers and includes helpful suggestions for practice. I would certainly recommend it to students on palliative care courses and encourage teachers to give carers more voice in their courses by using it as a key text.