Book excerpt: It is common knowledge that many curacies run into difficulties and that this is something people often feel constrained from discussing openly. Curacies and How to Survive Them offers readers the opportunity to listen in on a series of fast-flowing conversations between a psychologist, a theologian and a clergy spouse, which explore frequently occurring dilemmas and challenges. Using fictionalised case studies, collated from the true stories of curates and training incumbents, the book offers principles and strategies for understanding and addressing some common issues. Its emphasis is on the dynamics and psychology of the critical relationship between curates and their training incumbents. Attractively styled in a way reminiscent of the highly successful collaborations between John Cleese and Robin Skynner, Families and How to Survive Them and Life and How to Survive It. The conversational tone offers an engaging alternative to academic, theological and ecclesiastical writing. By highlighting issues that are not generally discussed, it will be immensely useful to people who might otherwise feel isolated and helpless.