Annabelle has a secret. When she was seven years old, she was approached by a neighborhood boy and invited into a "secret club." Unfortunately, this club was just a ruse for thirteen-year-old Joel to groom Annabelle for abuse. A few years later, when Annabelle turns eleven, she finds some bad feelings have returned for her.
Experts Acclaim for "Annabelle's Secret"
"Amy Barth's Annabelle could be just the 'friend' a sexually abused child needs, and it models just what parents should to do if their child shares about sexual abuse. A great little resource for children, parents, schools, therapists, treatment agencies, and prevention programs."
--Karen R. Nash, LCSW
""Annabelle's Secret" is a well-written and beautifully illustrated book for children that tells the difficult tale of Annabelle, what happened to her, and what she did to stop the sexual abuse that she was experiencing. The book is written in a straightforward yet compelling manner that exposes the excruciating situation that far too many children experience. This book is a welcome and needed addition to the tools that we have for children and families and service providers for dealing openly about child sexual abuse."
--Pamela Pine, PhD, MPH, Founder and CEO
Stop the Silence: Stop Child Sexual Abuse, Inc
""Annabelle's Secret" supports important issues regarding sexual abuse that may arise in a young girl's life. Written like a comforting letter from a survivor, the young reader will become aware of the importance and safety to report any encounters. The book is simply written and in understandable terms for any 6 to 9-year old. The information is concise, yet heartening and loving. Annabelle's Secret should be read with a parent present to encourage dialog about this significant subject."
--Irene Watson, author of "The Sitting Swing: Finding Wisdom to Know the Difference"
"Annabelle relates a story that reconfirms what I have observed over many years. Abused children, male or female, universally believe that it is their fault. Their self-image is mangled; they need to tell the truth; and they must get help from someone who knows how to treat such an injury to the soul."
--Fr. Heyward B. Ewart, III, PhD, "Author of Am I Bad? Recovering From Abuse"
To learn more, please visit www.AmyJBarth.com From Loving Healing press www.LovingHealing.com
Juvenile Fiction: Social Issues - Sexual Abuse