Invisible Girls

November 1, 2005
Gr 9 Up -Written by a psychotherapist, this book sets personal narratives within a generalized discussion of sexual abuse of girls and young women. Feuereisen addresses myths about female sexuality and abuse, considers contributing family dynamics, and offers advice on preventing, reporting, and recovering from abuse. Individual chapters are given to father-daughter incest, other incest, abuse by teachers and clergy, and different types of rape. The writing is clear and frank, including sufficient details without becoming salacious. The personal voices are the strength here, reminding other victims that they are not alone and that healing is possible. Individuals of various races and ethnicities tell their stories within their cultural contexts. Carolyn Lehman's "Strong at the Heart: How It Feels to Heal from Sexual Abuse" (Farrar, 2005) is an equally impressive title with greater emphasis on the importance of telling one's story to aid in the recovery process. Linda L. Foltz's "Kids Helping Kids Break the Silence of Sexual Abuse" (Lighthouse Point, 2003), for a younger readership, offers similar treatment on the importance of speaking out, with less explicit detail." -Joyce Adams Burner, Hillcrest Library, Prairie Village, KS"

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