This valuable book combines psychological theories of health with the lived experience of coping with chronic health conditions, focusing on the 'ill person' as an actor of their own development. It draws on perspectives from developmental and health psychology alongside the author's personal experience of chronic illness. This book brings a new vision into the experience of living with chronic disease. Silvia Bonino had the courage and intelligence to put her knowledge as professor of developmental psychology in dialogue with her personal experience to produce a very fine and sensitive description of the processes, emotions, states of mind, strategies and mechanisms of defence of the chronic patient. It offers both a critical and constructive look at the intervention of different health personnel, highlighting the need for better communication between professionals and patients. An indispensable book for both caregivers and chronically ill! Michel Born, Professor, University of Liège, Belgium