For professionals working with children and their families, Hester (gender, violence, and international policy, U. of Bristol, UK) et al. provide a review of recent research and legislation relating to domestic violence, its impact on children, and the consequences for practice. Research and practice in the UK are emphasized, with some from other countries discussed when relevant. The book has been updated and explores women who have experienced domestic violence. After providing an overview, including statistical data from the British Crime Survey 2001, chapters cover criminal and civil legislation, including the Domestic Violence, Crimes and Victims Act 2004, the Children Act 2004, and the Adoption and Fostering Act 2002. Practice issues relating to children, male perpetrators, and multi-agency forums are then discussed. The volume was originally commissioned by the Department of Health in 1998 and developed by Barnardo's, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), and the Domestic Violence Research Group at the U. of Bristol. Both subjects and authors are indexed. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)