Many of us look as though 'we're fine'. And that's just how we prefer it, especially if members of a church full of people 'doing fine. Few of us want to stick out or be seen as disruptive. So we're reluctant to volunteer concerns or difficulties.

The problem is then that leaders easily assume that all is well. Which suits them fine! They can carry on with their plans and strategies. But how different this impression would be if they took time to find out what people honestly think.

Nay Dawson's book SHE NEEDS has done just this: she has given women the space and safety to share their actual experiences of church life. She never pushes a theological agenda nor does she claim to offer a programme for how to respond. She merely wants us all to listen to what so many have felt. This is not an easy book to read as a result. But it is important. As Mark Meynell (Langham Partnership) writes in his foreword, 'I'm sad this book had to be written. But I am equally sure that it did.'

Many people, men as well as women, will be very grateful to Nay for this helpful and challenging book.