Medlemturtleshellbooks

Sad, Scared, Confused is a conversation between a nine year old boy and his parents about sexual abuse. This book can be a resource to educate all children about sexual abuse whether they have experienced it or not. In this book, Alex did not realize that when his friend's older brother touched him in a way that made him feel sad, scared and confused, it was sexual abuse. When he arrived home from his friend's house, he was not acting like himself. He went straight to his bedroom and refused to tell his parents what happened. He was scared and embarrassed and wanted to keep it to himself. However, his parents persisted. Through patience, love and even a sense of humor, they assured Alex that their love for him was greater than the pain he was holding inside. Once Alex was willing to talk about it, he grew from feeling sad, scared and confused to knowing that he was brave, safe and loved. I wrote this book not only for children but also for the adults who love them. Parents are always navigating their course when raising children. When sexual abuse happens, it may seem like an unexpected detour but it does not mean that your boat will sink! This book can be a compass to guide you through the rough waters of trauma and sexual abuse.

I grew up in a family created through adoption and foster care. As the only white child in a family with Asian, African and Middle Eastern American children, this gave me a unique perspective of the world. I cannot walk in the shoes of my brothers and sister, but I have walked beside them and have had the opportunity to see the world in a way that many are unable to.

My family knows that my absolute favorite thing in life is snuggling with my children or grandchildren while reading them a good book. I firmly believe that there is no greater gift that can be given to a child than the love within your heart and the stories within the pages of a book. I am grateful that my stories can be a part of your family’s life.