Louise Allen

As a baby Louise was adopted into a family who treated her cruelly. Her first book, Thrown Away Child, reveals the abuse and neglect she and a fellow adopted child suffered at the hands of their adopted mother Barbara. She grew up with a determination to create a loving fostering family herself. She and her partner have now looked after many children, some of whom have stayed long term. Her experiences with children in the care system led to her writing the bestselling Thrown Away Children series of books, each drawing on her knowledge and care for the most vulnerable in our society, and each reflecting on the things that we can all do to make children feel supported and loved. Louise is well known for 'saying it as it is', and her books are poignant and empowering.

When I became a foster carer I was full of hope but within weeks I discovered a broken system that is meant to be looking after our most vulnerable children. I write about this. I met children whose needs were off the scale but those same needs are becoming commonplace. I write about them. I am involved with organisations and individuals who either grew up in care or work for the improvement of the care system. I write my books for the children and adults who have experienced abuse sadly we are no small minority. I tell their stories to help others understand. I hope you enjoy them."