STRONG: Successful Women Share Stories of Childhood Trauma and Triumph (illustrated in full color)

Book excerpt: Eighty-one successful women from 22 countries share poignant memoirs of early childhood struggle and suffering: trauma, loss, betrayal, bullying, neglect, sexual abuse, and the disconnection of dysfunctional family relationships. The memoirs read like intimate bits of conversation between best friends, overheard, at times in sordid detail. These stories are in stark contradiction to the nostalgic ones we like to tell ourselves about the charms of childhood. They paint the picture of early years that are not all sunshine and rainbows. Some will amuse. Some will tear at your heart. The author writes in a brief, clear, concise style. Original, full-color drawings capture the essence of each memory as seen through the eyes of the innocent child. "This compelling collection of personal narratives has been honored with the prestigious Literary Titan Gold Book Award, a recognition reserved for books that masterfully deliver original content, explore innovative themes, and exhibit elegant prose." NOTE: This book contains several true accounts of child abuse that some readers may find disturbing. This book is not for children.