Books on Prescription

My therapist recommended two books to me this week. He didn't get the title or author exactly right, because he didn't have his 'prescription cards' on him at the time, but I managed to figure it out.

He explained that there is a scheme running in local libraries called 'Books on Prescription'. The therapists from the area have given the public library service a list of books they are liable to recommend that their clients read. The libraries have copies of these books in and they can be requested by clients / patients; you can then get the book(s) on a double-length loan period (6 weeks in this area) without being charged for requesting the book(s).

I have currently got the following books on loan under this scheme:

Overcoming Low Self-Esteem by Melanie Fennell
Overcoming Anxiety by Helen Kennerley
Assertiveness: Step by Step by Windy Dryden and Daniel Constantinou


I've started reading the one by Melanie Fennell. The first half of Chapter One was a bit obvious and a tad patronising, but it gets better. I did the exercises suggested and I feel I gained a lot by it. I've decided to try and read a chapter every couple if days.

One thing I did like about this book right from the start is how much effort has been put in to guide the reader to a decision about whether the book is right for them; it clearly states who it is aimed at, how it might help, how much it can help, and what to do if it is not ebough on its own


I highly recommend asking your therapist or librarian if there is a 'Books on Prescription' scheme or something similar operating where you are.