The resiliency of a child put to the test.
Life isn’t easy for little Brenda, whose single, teenage mom is immature, selfish, and prone to violent mood swings. Brenda takes care of herself and her mother as best as she can, missing out on many childhood joys to be her mother’s Little Mama. Sadly, her already challenging existence gets even worse when her mom’s abusive boyfriend moves in. Brenda loves having a new baby brother, but her home life soon turns into a living Hell. Finally, she reaches her breaking point and must find the courage to save herself and embark on the difficult road toward recovery. A heartbreaking and inspiring tale of abuse and survival.
Hopping forward and backward through time through the framing device of therapy, the story unfolds as young Brenda recounts her tale, visibly maturing as the book (and sessions) continue. At first, we think it might be a child psychology session, but slowly we realize that it is the adult Brenda merely feeling like the child she was at whatever age she is at during her storytelling.
The story is told from the perspective of a child, yet the reader is grown up and able to recognize the resilience of the young protagonist. As the story progresses and Brenda matures, her resilience and strength are tested. Her journey to recovery is not easy and the reader comes to admire her for her courage and determination. It is a story of hope and perseverance, of overcoming obstacles and finding the courage to stand up and fight for yourself, even in the face of immense adversity.Â
A powerful story about child abuse, spousal abuse, and surviving the trauma toward hopeful blue skies.
Read Brenda’s story today!
Written and illustrated by: Halim Mahmouidi