You're reading about what?

Over the years I’ve found myself drawn more and more to seek out books that cover topics that would be considered controversial / not-so nice / depressing / emotional. That’s not to say that I don’t still love me some graphic novels or a sweet lovey-dovey gay romance; but the books and stories that have touched my heart and keep me wanting to read long into the night lately have a focus on characters that have lived with and survived a tragedy or traumatic experience. For example, the ones that have completely drawn me in deal with children who were kidnapped and returned to their families years later. The knowledge that these characters endured some of the most vile and cruel experiences is one that turns my stomach, but it is the struggle to reintegrate back into their old lives while also dealing with the psychological trauma is one that keeps me engaged. I have this desire to see and feel this character struggle, grow, and (hopefully) succeed in finding their place and moving on with their life. It is that inner struggle of the victim and their love ones - the many voices all trying to make sense of something that doesn’t make sense. It is that journey that I am drawn too.

Some titles that I’ve read recently:

When Jeff Comes Home - by Catherine Atkins

Remember Me Like This - by Bret Anthony Johnston

Where You Can Find Me - by Sheri Joseph