Svantje - Scream in the dark

Book excerpt: Svantje is eleven years old and has recently moved into the Brookstrasse housing estate in Frechen with her single mother. The girl is very quiet, reserved and doesn't talk to anyone. One day, while Svantje is sitting alone on a bench at the playground, a twelve-year-old boy approaches her and introduces himself to her as Daryl. Despite their initial reluctance, shy conversations develop into a profound friendship that is soon permeated by tender love. But Daryl, who opens up more and more to Svantje, gradually discovers that her behavior is strange - the closer he gets to her, the more distant she becomes. Daryl's desperate attempt to break through the walls around Svantje's secrets is overshadowed by their unbearable burden. Svantje, marked by domestic violence and abuse, remains silent. While Daryl does everything he can to save the friendship, he has no idea what a harrowing reality Svantje is trying to overcome... Elias J. Connor's moving story "Svantje - Scream in the dark" is based on true events and unfolds a captivating social drama that sensitively illuminates the depths of family violence and a girl's fight for redemption. The author, known for works such as “Lovelights – Benjamin and Jane” and “Outsider”, takes readers on an emotional roller coaster ride full of hope, friendship and the striving to overcome.