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Thrown Away Children #4
Jacob's Story
Officers from the RSPCA investigate reports of animal cruelty and neglect on a farm, only to discover a 5-year-old boy curled up asleep in a dog bed, amidst filth and squalor.
He has severe physical and cognitive impairments, and no one outside the family seems to know of the existence of little Jacob.
When he arrives in the Allen household, a terrified Louise wonders how on earth she will cope looking after a child with his level of physical and emotional damage. With the support of veteran social worker, Mary, the fight begins to get Jacob the support he needs – as medical investigations begin to reveal more shocking details about Jacob’s story.
He has severe physical and cognitive impairments, and no one outside the family seems to know of the existence of little Jacob.
When he arrives in the Allen household, a terrified Louise wonders how on earth she will cope looking after a child with his level of physical and emotional damage. With the support of veteran social worker, Mary, the fight begins to get Jacob the support he needs – as medical investigations begin to reveal more shocking details about Jacob’s story.
Paperback
Published August 19, 2021
51 people are currently reading
601 people want to read
About the author
Louise Allen
17 books115 followersFrom an early age, Louise was adopted into a family who, from the beginning, said they didn’t want her. 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. Ten years ago, Louise and her family became a fostering family. They have looked after over twenty children, some have stayed long term. This led to the bestselling series, Thrown Away Children, where Louise is inspired by the stories of children in the care system. Within days, the book became a bestseller.
Louise now draws on her experience to write a new series of ‘How to’ books about adoption, fostering and parenting. How to Adopt a Child is the unvarnished truth about adoption. Louise is well known for “saying it as it is,” so not only is it witty and engaging, it also empowers adopters to feel confident and in control and to know where to turn to for help.
Louise now draws on her experience to write a new series of ‘How to’ books about adoption, fostering and parenting. How to Adopt a Child is the unvarnished truth about adoption. Louise is well known for “saying it as it is,” so not only is it witty and engaging, it also empowers adopters to feel confident and in control and to know where to turn to for help.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 8, 2021
A great read that starts with an RSPCA officer in her way to a farm, after a report of animal neglect. Upon arrival she finds a little boy called Jacob, curled up in a dog bed, unable to move or speak.
Although this book obviously starts as heart breaking, the book is actually full of hope, and follows Jacob's journey over the next 6 months as his life changes.
Also pin points a lot or problems within the Social Care system which you can't help but get annoyed at.
Great book, and in my opinion not too brutal if you struggle to read these kind of books if they aren't too brutal/explicit.
Although this book obviously starts as heart breaking, the book is actually full of hope, and follows Jacob's journey over the next 6 months as his life changes.
Also pin points a lot or problems within the Social Care system which you can't help but get annoyed at.
Great book, and in my opinion not too brutal if you struggle to read these kind of books if they aren't too brutal/explicit.
August 21, 2021
This is the first book I've read by this author. It won't be the last.
September 14, 2021
When the RSPA turn up at a deserted farmhouse after a tip off about neglected animals the officer is shocked to find a small boy curled up in a dog basket. Jacob is nearly five but cannot do anything apart from curl up where he is.. Mary, the social worker who becomes involved is approaching retirement & if this is to be her last case she knows exactly who she wants on her side to foster Jacob.- Louise Allen who has come from a 'looked after' background.. Louise, along with Dara, the social worked who oversees her fostering & Mary do everything in their power to try & give Jacob the opportunity to fulfil his potential in spite of the hurdles from the system & the difficulties for Louise in juggling her own family- especially adopted Lily who still struggles with her own history..
Louise Allen's series of books are always a heart breaking but life affirming read. In spite of all the hoops & red tape it is wonderful to see there are people out there who are willing to give children a better start in life. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
Louise Allen's series of books are always a heart breaking but life affirming read. In spite of all the hoops & red tape it is wonderful to see there are people out there who are willing to give children a better start in life. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
September 30, 2025
Jacobs story was a real eye opener especially about the care system it seems to be about greed and cutting corners to go with the cheapest option.we need more people like Mary who's main priority is the children making sure they get all the support they need and the correct support she's not about greed like it seems big corporate company's are into.Louise and Lloyd did a fantastic job taking care of Jacob giving him that sensory input he so desperately needed.He needed love care support but most of all to be treated his own age he had global development delays in the short time he was with Louise he made great steps in reaching mile stones.one doctor basically said keep him warm give him milk he won't amount to anything well Jacob and all his support network proved him wrong.jacov learned to get around he was smiling slowly learning words he was a beautiful boy who needed some extra help and support and encouragement to reach his milestones.as for the false accusations claiming Louise and Lloyd were drinking and weren't fit to look after children it goes to show you have to watch your back as the social or anyone will go to great lengths to get cheaper. options this story will live with me for the rest of my life.Jacob showed all those who had no belief that he could achieve anything.people and children who have disabilities shouldn't be seen as their disabilities but as a person who will learn to adapt and achieve things the world is made for able bodied people not enough support for the disabled community's I know this for a fact with living with my own disabilities we shouldn't be wrote of we should be able to do things able people are able to do we are human beings we are not our conditions. kindness and empathy go along way we don't want people feeling sorry for us we want to be treated like any other person we learn to adapt and find ways to be included we aren't any different we face new challenges daily which we learn to get around
April 5, 2025
I read 3 Louise Allen books before this one that I really enjoyed and had high hopes for this one too.
Unfortunatly it was comically unrealistic and im not sure what Louise was aiming for when writing this, almost like she was trying to suggest some super skills that could “cure” any child,
Jacob arrived with Louise as a 5 year old who had spent his time neglected in a dog bed. Could not sit up, walk, talk or do anything for himself and diagnosed with a global development delay and severely disabled.
Yet within a few weeks within a few weeks with Louise he is potty trained, walking, and talking in full sentences, and eventually playing Minecraft 😂😂
I have worked with children with global development delays and yes these mile stones are possible but not at the speed Louise suggests and unfortunately it spoilt the book and now has me questioning how much of these books are her actual experience as a foster carer or if they are made up stories without much knowledge
Unfortunatly it was comically unrealistic and im not sure what Louise was aiming for when writing this, almost like she was trying to suggest some super skills that could “cure” any child,
Jacob arrived with Louise as a 5 year old who had spent his time neglected in a dog bed. Could not sit up, walk, talk or do anything for himself and diagnosed with a global development delay and severely disabled.
Yet within a few weeks within a few weeks with Louise he is potty trained, walking, and talking in full sentences, and eventually playing Minecraft 😂😂
I have worked with children with global development delays and yes these mile stones are possible but not at the speed Louise suggests and unfortunately it spoilt the book and now has me questioning how much of these books are her actual experience as a foster carer or if they are made up stories without much knowledge
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2021
This is another book from Louise Allen telling the story of one of the many foster children that have passed through her doors.
Like many of the children that Louise and her husband foster, Jacob’s start in life is traumatic. A story that reads like it’s from the 1950s not recent years. However with the right support from dedicated social workers and a specialist foster carer, he goes on to thrive.
It’s not a book to read for amusement, but it’s definitely a powerful story.
Thank you Louise and your family for everything you do to support children like Jacob – I just wish there were more Mary’s out there!
Disclosure: I received an advance reader copy of this book free via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the author & publisher for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own.
#JacobsStory #NetGalley
Like many of the children that Louise and her husband foster, Jacob’s start in life is traumatic. A story that reads like it’s from the 1950s not recent years. However with the right support from dedicated social workers and a specialist foster carer, he goes on to thrive.
It’s not a book to read for amusement, but it’s definitely a powerful story.
Thank you Louise and your family for everything you do to support children like Jacob – I just wish there were more Mary’s out there!
Disclosure: I received an advance reader copy of this book free via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the author & publisher for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own.
#JacobsStory #NetGalley
October 10, 2021
Very good book. Jacob’s story was so shocking and hard to read in parts. I think Louise having grown up in care makes her a fantastic foster carer as she can understand some of the challenges the children go through. Despite not having the experience with Jacobs needs she really jumpt in and took good care of him. Having the support of Mary the social worker also helped her to support Jacob. His story could have ended far more tradgically and his disibility may not have even been properly diagnosed had he not been found by anna and then had people like Louise and Mary fighting his corner. It’s great that he ended up in the best place that could cater for his needs and continue the great work Louise started.
August 12, 2021
Jacob's Story by Louise Allen
A hearbreaking story of children that are found living in extremely horrendous conditions , and not being cared for in the way you'd expect for every child . Whilst parts of ' Jacobs ' story may be an amalgamation of other foster children stories, it doesn't take away the care & love and time spent on them by kind , loving foster parents.
It is not a book you can say you have enjoyed due to the suffering of children , but it is a book that gives you an insight to the happenings of what fostering can all be about.
Foster parents - I take my hat off to you.
A hearbreaking story of children that are found living in extremely horrendous conditions , and not being cared for in the way you'd expect for every child . Whilst parts of ' Jacobs ' story may be an amalgamation of other foster children stories, it doesn't take away the care & love and time spent on them by kind , loving foster parents.
It is not a book you can say you have enjoyed due to the suffering of children , but it is a book that gives you an insight to the happenings of what fostering can all be about.
Foster parents - I take my hat off to you.
September 19, 2021
What a cruel but wonderful book this is - Jacob is found living in squalor in a dogs bed. He goes to live with Louise a foster carer who has her own children. Thanks to her and Mary a social worker Jacob starts to meet a lot of his milestones. He is happy and secure for the first time in his short life. Throughout the story, you can feel the tenacity of Louise, when Mary retires the children coming into the care system will be bereft without her. They are portrayed as the right people who care enough to do the best they can for children who have nobody on their side.
June 19, 2022
Truly Inspirational
I have read all of Louise's books but Jacob's story has touched me the most. The two opposite sides of society were so striking to me. The love and care for the children vs money. Both Mary and Louise are the reason Jacob is even able to thrive at all today. It takes an almost inhuman being to do what these children need and deserve. They deserve a crown in heaven, at the very least.
I have read all of Louise's books but Jacob's story has touched me the most. The two opposite sides of society were so striking to me. The love and care for the children vs money. Both Mary and Louise are the reason Jacob is even able to thrive at all today. It takes an almost inhuman being to do what these children need and deserve. They deserve a crown in heaven, at the very least.
December 10, 2022
Safe
After being found in a dog's bed under the table, with much work Jacob is rescued from that situation. He is then placed with a non-caring couple. After another placement with Louise and Lloyd, Jacob is found to have serious medical problems With difficulties caused mainly by that "caring" system, Jacob is finally placed with a most caring family. Louise fallen is a great writer. Her stories flow with understanding feelings. I highly recommend her books.
After being found in a dog's bed under the table, with much work Jacob is rescued from that situation. He is then placed with a non-caring couple. After another placement with Louise and Lloyd, Jacob is found to have serious medical problems With difficulties caused mainly by that "caring" system, Jacob is finally placed with a most caring family. Louise fallen is a great writer. Her stories flow with understanding feelings. I highly recommend her books.
May 1, 2023
This is the first Louise Allen book I have read and I will definitely read more.
I like her style and how she's used her own life experiences to help and be able to have a really good understanding of what vulnerable children need.
Although it is titled Jacob's Story I do however feel you learn more about Mary the social worker assigned to Jacob however it was very interesting to read and good to learn that Jacob had some amazing people to fight his corner for him.
I like her style and how she's used her own life experiences to help and be able to have a really good understanding of what vulnerable children need.
Although it is titled Jacob's Story I do however feel you learn more about Mary the social worker assigned to Jacob however it was very interesting to read and good to learn that Jacob had some amazing people to fight his corner for him.
November 13, 2023
13/11/2023
I've read 4 books of this series already, I just don't understand -as a physiotherapist- why Louis didn't know anything about occupational therapy or physical therapy and other stuff many many underdeveloped children need to fulfill their fullest potential.
I guess she never encountered one before? Or didn't foster them because she already has 3 other children.
It was a good experience for many people I'm sure
I've read 4 books of this series already, I just don't understand -as a physiotherapist- why Louis didn't know anything about occupational therapy or physical therapy and other stuff many many underdeveloped children need to fulfill their fullest potential.
I guess she never encountered one before? Or didn't foster them because she already has 3 other children.
It was a good experience for many people I'm sure
October 23, 2021
My thanks to #NetGalley and #Mirrorbooks for the opportunity to read this book.
What a heartbreaking read. I hadn't read any of the 'Thrown away children ' series but I will definitely look for the other books that have been written.
An excellent book well written and thought provoking. A must read.
What a heartbreaking read. I hadn't read any of the 'Thrown away children ' series but I will definitely look for the other books that have been written.
An excellent book well written and thought provoking. A must read.
January 2, 2022
What an insight to how social services really work. Not surprised to be honest. Glad that Jacob got the happy ending he deserved and had the right people fight for him. Too many children don’t. More people should read these books, get angry angry at how children are treated in our care systems, maybe that will cause it to change.
November 28, 2021
Another inspiring story from Louise Allen
Quick reading and pulls you in from the first words. Heartbreaking, uplifting, and inspiring. Carve out a block of time because once you start reading you will be unable to put it down. Keep writing Louise!
Quick reading and pulls you in from the first words. Heartbreaking, uplifting, and inspiring. Carve out a block of time because once you start reading you will be unable to put it down. Keep writing Louise!
February 25, 2022
Great book
Absolutely fabulous book . this author is amazing for
the way she narrates. Being a previous foster carer myself I can resonate a lot of what she says. Highly recommend this book and definitely this author
Absolutely fabulous book . this author is amazing for
the way she narrates. Being a previous foster carer myself I can resonate a lot of what she says. Highly recommend this book and definitely this author
September 13, 2023
Louise has seemingly unrealistic expectations about the power of art, and shoulders so littered with chips you sometimes suspect you are unwittingly part of the problem, without being quite aware of the situation. But if you like foster care presented as daytime soap, you could do a lot worse.
September 5, 2021
Really enjoyed it and well written too. Another brilliant book from Louise Allen.
September 6, 2021
This was a great book and written so recently!
November 6, 2021
Another great book by louise Allen.
April 21, 2022
I struggled with the narrator change in the series.
September 24, 2022
Amazing
What a wonderful story. I really enjoyed it. I think I’ve read all her books now. She seems to be a lovely lady.
What a wonderful story. I really enjoyed it. I think I’ve read all her books now. She seems to be a lovely lady.
March 4, 2024
repetitive, could have done with a hell of a lot of editing and she needs to leave her useless husband
June 2, 2024
Outstanding.
April 18, 2025
4.5
this whole series is heartbreaking. Just knowing they are real stories where names have been changed to protect the children.
this whole series is heartbreaking. Just knowing they are real stories where names have been changed to protect the children.
May 29, 2025
This book drew me in from the very beginning. It was interesting to learn of the child’s background and how he developed whilst in loving foster care. These books really are an eye opener.
July 3, 2025
A sad story with a happy ending despite all the limitations in the foster care system.
July 7, 2025
Jacob
This was the most incredible books that I have ever read I couldn’t put it down. God bless you Louise
This was the most incredible books that I have ever read I couldn’t put it down. God bless you Louise
January 11, 2026
great book!
I found this book so good! I have a heart for social work especially with kids, and this outlined a great story about a boy named Jacob and how beat the odds.
I found this book so good! I have a heart for social work especially with kids, and this outlined a great story about a boy named Jacob and how beat the odds.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews