Forty-one chapters, twelve parts. Stories, the science under them, and what to do next — written for teenagers, and for the adults who love them.
A book to heal, to prevent, and to love. · Stories · Education · Healing · Hope
Before the first chapter
Dedication
For my children—everything I do, I do for you.
Foreword
When I first read this manuscript, I had to set it down three times.
What This Book Will Give You
If you are a teenager, this book will give you:
A Note Before You Begin
This book contains stories about abuse, bullying, addiction, mental illness, suicide, sexual exploitation, an…
A Note for Mandatory Reporters
If you are a teacher, counselor, coach, or other mandated reporter, please be aware that the stories and prom…
Crisis Resources
▸ National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 | text START to 88788
How to Use This Book
If you are a teen reading alone:
Who This Book Is For
This edition is written for parents, mentors, teachers, and faith leaders to use in real conversations with y…
You are braver than you know.
The twelve parts
PART ONE
The Foundation
PART TWO
Understanding Abuse
PART THREE
The Digital Cage
PART FOUR
Blood and Belonging
PART FIVE
Chemical Chains
PART SIX
The Masks We Wear
PART SEVEN
The Ones We Trust
PART EIGHT
Building the House
PART NINE
Before the Cradle
PART TEN
The Puppet Strings
PART ELEVEN
The Healing Program
PART TWELVE
The Movement
After the last chapter
A Final Word
Every topic in this book shares a single mission: to show young people a way to take care of themselves that…
A Letter from the Author
Dear Reader,
A Testimony
For everyone I once loved who could not love me back the way I deserved—I could not see it then, because I wa…
A Blessing
May you know, in the deepest part of yourself, that you were made on purpose.
Your Next Steps
If you are safe right now:
Where to Get Help
These resources are free, confidential, and available 24/7:
Affirmations
Say one every morning. Write one on your mirror.
Sources for the Research Notes
The short Research says notes throughout this book are drawn from the following sources.
About the Author
Krissy Hall writes from lived experience.