One Small Word: Surviving Childhood Abuse

At a time when celebrities such as Sally Field and other adult survivors of childhood abuse are finding the courage to tell their stories, and governments are holding Royal Commissions into abuse within institutions, this memoir-based novel reveals the lengthy and difficult experience of abuse within the home. It provides a bright glimmer of hope for victims who have not yet started on their road to recovery. Readers share the life of Frankie, a 50-year-old social work student, and her dramatic memories of physical and sexual abuse at the hand of her father. Frankie journeys from despair to recovery, transforming into a strong woman who is able to turn the negativity of her life into positive help for others. You will experience her emotions at the time of the abuse, gain insight into how this affected her adult behaviour, and share her victory as she learned to overcome. "I would thoroughly recommend this book as a source of hope and inspiration to all those who have been affected by the impact of child abuse on their lives, and those who work with survivors. It demonstrates the importance of seeking help and support from others and breaking the silence that surrounds abuse. The book inspires the reader never to give up hope ..." Geri Burnikell, Co-ordinator of SupportLine Reg. charity 1097419

About the Author :
GLORIA EVELEIGH was a research metallurgist before a career change to social work. She designed and led the first local authority multi-agency framework facilitating the safety of vulnerable people. The mother of three grown up children and five grandchildren, Gloria lives on the south coast of England, writing, and chairing her local Parish Council. She has written and illustrated 24 phonics focused picture storybooks for small children. In the 1940s and 50s, when child abuse was hidden, not believed, and not acknowledged, Gloria had first-hand experience of growing up in a dysfunctional family. She and her three siblings were the victims of familial physical and sexual abuse. In this autobiographical novel Gloria is now happy to tell her personal story. She hopes that it will help others who suffered childhood abuse, or who are currently experiencing abuse, to believe in themselves, to know they are not alone, and to know for sure that there is hope of recovery. Her aim is also to give professionals working with victims a greater insight into the short and long-term effects of abuse on those who experience it.