Clinical Social Work: A Narrative Approach is a much needed and welcome addition to the narrative literature. Paquin's unique contribution lies in his ability to integrate narrative practices with social work values. Throughout the book he shows how foundational social work beliefs in social justice, empowerment, community, and diversity are profoundly implicated in narrative work. As he explains narrative approaches to problem definition, externalization, docments, letters, teams, and audiences, Paquin's case examples and dialogues bring these ideas to life. His skillfully devised classroom exercises are excellent resources for teaching and learning these techniques. I predict that students will love the clear explanations, lively examples, and intereting discussions that this book offers. As a teacher of narrative practice, I can't wait to begin using it. --Ruth Grossman Dean, PhD, Professor, Simmons School of Social Work

As one of the originators of narrative therapy and community work and a social worker, I read this book with great joy and intense sadness. I rejoice in what I consider to be the most eloquent statement and description of narrative therapy in the context of social work practice. My sadness is because I write this after Gary's death. --David Epston


Gary W. Paquin, JD, PhD, was associate professor, School of Social Work, at the University of Cincinnati, where he taught graduate-level social work practice, human behavior in the social environment, and social policy. He received his MSW from the University of Michigan School of Social Work and his PhD from the University of California, Berkeley, School of Social Welfare. Dr. Paquin was also a licensed clinical social worker and was the author of numerous articles and presentations. Dr. Paquin passed away in May 2007.