ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author introduces the rationale for the book, its component parts and overall structure. Firmin starts by setting the tone for the book: this is a book that will focus on the village – the contexts – in which abuse (beyond the family) occurs; and what is required of child protection systems in response. She introduces these discussion points: the nature of abuse with which this book is concerned; the child protection system that she seeks to advance; the research projects she will draw upon to make her case, and; the four parts of the book across which they are spread. By the end of Part 1 of this book the reader will have a clear understanding of the story the author seeks to tell and how she intends to do so.
