"This book is based on the comprehensive research in Africa published in THE HOSKEN REPORT, GENITAL & SEXUAL MUTILATION OF FEMALES, which is summarized in the chapter "HEALTH FACTS & OVERVIEW" (annotated). In the key chapter "WOMEN SPEAK ABOUT THEIR LIVES" the terrible personal experiences of mutilated women are related by them to enable others to escape their fate. These stories were collected by the author over many years all over Africa, visiting maternity hospitals, midwives & women's groups to establish the facts. The truth about these damaging traditions has been concealed by all international organizations - see chapter on "THE POLITICS OF FGM." A chapter on "HUMAN RIGHTS" unequivocally establishes that FGM is an international human rights violation. "ACTIONS FOR CHANGE" documents the initiatives by African women to eradicate these violent assaults on the integrity of female children - especially the work of the Inter African Committee on Traditional Practices affecting the Health of Women & Children all over Africa. The author describes the experience with THE CHILDBIRTH PICTURE BOOKS: they explain healthy reproduction regardless of language or literacy & are successfully used in stopping FGM." Available from Women's International Network News, 187 Grant St., Lexington, MA 02173. Phone: (617) 862-9431, FAX: (617) 862-1734.