'Lewis's demanding pace and unapologetic emphasis on the value of ideas, theory and analysis make this a challenging read in a positive sense.' International Social Work 'This post-structuralist analysis permits and requires a close engagement with the shifting complexities of everyday experience and connections with overarching structures of power, politics and professions ... the analysis of parliamentary debates is well-handled, tackling this well-worn ground with fresh insight ... Lewis's book provides a rigorous and invigorating analysis which demands that black and Asian women's voices be heard in debates over the provision of welfare.' Ethic and Racial Studies 'Gail Lewis's excellent contribution to this field indicates just what we have been missing. Lewis's analysis of racial formation in social welfare policy and practice provides a textured and thoughtful analysis with important implications' American Journal of Sociology 'Those aiming to shift social work in anti-racist (and anti-sexist) directions have been provided with a solid text addressing issues basic to their tasks ... Lewis provides a richly layered analysis of the complex relations between social policy, social work, 'race' and gender in Britain.' European Journal of Social Work 'Gail Lewis has produced an impressive study, (she) raises important questions about the way we think about the social, about work and about the influence that social policies have on our lives.' Feminist Theory