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Little Madhouse on the Prairie: A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit
Marion Witte was raised in a little house on the prairie, but her childhood was nothing like the idyllic version of childhood made famous by Laura Ingalls.
Witte's story has its roots in immigrant grandparents who struggle to make a living on the harsh Midwestern plains. Unbelievable hardship, alcoholism, abuse and abandonment were the norm during her youth. Witte endured punishments that had devastating emotional effects. She was often locked in a dark, dirty cellar with the rats and mice, terrifed and too little to turn on the light bulb that hung high above her.
As Witte retells the circumstances of her youth, it becomes clear that this book is much more than a compelling story of childhood mistreatment. The crux of her story maintains that once abuse stops, the psychological damage lingers. Even as Witte graduated from college, became a CPA, and had her own family, she knew that there were wounds to be healed. Witte takes the reader on the journey she pursued to heal from the past, and the pitfalls and successes of that process. Her honest and compassionate portrayal draws the reader into an analysis of negative adult behaviors and why we may behave in an emotionally immature manner.
This is a book that connects the dots between our childhood experiences, our current adult behavior and the way we parent.
Witte's story has its roots in immigrant grandparents who struggle to make a living on the harsh Midwestern plains. Unbelievable hardship, alcoholism, abuse and abandonment were the norm during her youth. Witte endured punishments that had devastating emotional effects. She was often locked in a dark, dirty cellar with the rats and mice, terrifed and too little to turn on the light bulb that hung high above her.
As Witte retells the circumstances of her youth, it becomes clear that this book is much more than a compelling story of childhood mistreatment. The crux of her story maintains that once abuse stops, the psychological damage lingers. Even as Witte graduated from college, became a CPA, and had her own family, she knew that there were wounds to be healed. Witte takes the reader on the journey she pursued to heal from the past, and the pitfalls and successes of that process. Her honest and compassionate portrayal draws the reader into an analysis of negative adult behaviors and why we may behave in an emotionally immature manner.
This is a book that connects the dots between our childhood experiences, our current adult behavior and the way we parent.
240 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2012
7 people are currently reading
1271 people want to read
About the author
Marion Elizabeth Witte
3 books18 followersMarion Witte is a Certified Public Accountant, writer, speaker and entrepreneur. Her life-long career includes owning, managing and operating various business ventures.
Her award-winning memoir is "Little Madhouse on the Prairie:A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit."
By telling her own story, she hopes to open readers’ eyes to the serious and long-term damage caused by all forms of childhood mistreatment. She argues that only through awareness, education and healing can society prevent such future violence.
Marion continues her association with child advocacy projects that focus on establishing and maintaining positive treatment of children.
Her award-winning memoir is "Little Madhouse on the Prairie:A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit."
By telling her own story, she hopes to open readers’ eyes to the serious and long-term damage caused by all forms of childhood mistreatment. She argues that only through awareness, education and healing can society prevent such future violence.
Marion continues her association with child advocacy projects that focus on establishing and maintaining positive treatment of children.
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August 3, 2013
When one thinks of a little house on the prairie, visions of strong family ties, loving parents and childhood memories of romping through fields and streams come to mind.
But for Marion Witte, it was a house of horrors. She suffers beyond what any child or human being should suffer at the hands of an alcoholic emotionally-absent father, a cruel, emotionally disturbed mother and an older brother who turns against her.
With soul-baring detail, she chronicles her journey from this abusive, isolated childhood, where her mother locks her in a cold, dark basement for punishment when she is 5 years old through her courageous journey to self-awareness and healing when she is an adult.
As the adult narrator, she reflects back upon her painful childhood memories in a way that invites us into the mind of a child and helps us experience the hardships and abuse she endured. Looking at her kindergarten picture of a beautiful, yet sad five year old with a bruise on her cheek brings home not only the pain of abuse but the mores of the times which dictated that people stay out of other people’s business. No one advocated for this precious child despite clear evidence of wrongdoing.
Her writing style is engaging and reflects compassion, insight and resilience. As a child, she witnesses the abuse of her cousin by her father’s brother. Again no one steps in to defend the child. In her back story, we see how the cycle of abuse has been perpetuated through the generations.
With painstaking honesty, she guides us through the difficulties she experiences in her adulthood as a result of her childhood abuse, showing how the events and people from her past have followed her. She takes us through her denial into her journey of self-awareness which ultimately leads to her healing. She turns her pain into a blessing as she carves out a mission to help children who have endured childhood abuse.
In showing us her pathway to healing from childhood abuse, Marion gives a gift of hope. For those who have been abused, there is hope for recovery. For those who have never been abused, she raises awareness. For those who are in the helping professions, she offers insights in the healing process.
This is an inspirational and brave story, beautifully written by a woman who was willing to face her vulnerabilities and share her personal journey. In showing how she found a purpose for her pain, she has touched us all. It is a heart-wrenching story of vulnerability, resilience and healing.
But for Marion Witte, it was a house of horrors. She suffers beyond what any child or human being should suffer at the hands of an alcoholic emotionally-absent father, a cruel, emotionally disturbed mother and an older brother who turns against her.
With soul-baring detail, she chronicles her journey from this abusive, isolated childhood, where her mother locks her in a cold, dark basement for punishment when she is 5 years old through her courageous journey to self-awareness and healing when she is an adult.
As the adult narrator, she reflects back upon her painful childhood memories in a way that invites us into the mind of a child and helps us experience the hardships and abuse she endured. Looking at her kindergarten picture of a beautiful, yet sad five year old with a bruise on her cheek brings home not only the pain of abuse but the mores of the times which dictated that people stay out of other people’s business. No one advocated for this precious child despite clear evidence of wrongdoing.
Her writing style is engaging and reflects compassion, insight and resilience. As a child, she witnesses the abuse of her cousin by her father’s brother. Again no one steps in to defend the child. In her back story, we see how the cycle of abuse has been perpetuated through the generations.
With painstaking honesty, she guides us through the difficulties she experiences in her adulthood as a result of her childhood abuse, showing how the events and people from her past have followed her. She takes us through her denial into her journey of self-awareness which ultimately leads to her healing. She turns her pain into a blessing as she carves out a mission to help children who have endured childhood abuse.
In showing us her pathway to healing from childhood abuse, Marion gives a gift of hope. For those who have been abused, there is hope for recovery. For those who have never been abused, she raises awareness. For those who are in the helping professions, she offers insights in the healing process.
This is an inspirational and brave story, beautifully written by a woman who was willing to face her vulnerabilities and share her personal journey. In showing how she found a purpose for her pain, she has touched us all. It is a heart-wrenching story of vulnerability, resilience and healing.
February 2, 2013
Witte’s own story, Little Madhouse on the Prairie: A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit (Angel Heart Publishing 2010), has its roots in immigrant grandparents who struggled to make a living on the harsh Midwestern plains. Unbelievable hardship resulted in alcoholism and violence, passed on to Witte by her mother’s wrath. “The publication of my memoir is part of the first phase of my goal—awareness.”
The crux of her story maintains that once the actual physical abuse stops, the psychological damage lingers. Even after Witte graduated from college, became a CPA, and had her own family, she knew that there were still wounds to be healed. Psychologists know adults, abused as children, will carry self-esteem issues; problems with judgment and decisions, as well as trust and intimacy difficulties until mental illnesses—like depression; divorce, drugs or drinking force them into recovery.
The crux of her story maintains that once the actual physical abuse stops, the psychological damage lingers. Even after Witte graduated from college, became a CPA, and had her own family, she knew that there were still wounds to be healed. Psychologists know adults, abused as children, will carry self-esteem issues; problems with judgment and decisions, as well as trust and intimacy difficulties until mental illnesses—like depression; divorce, drugs or drinking force them into recovery.
October 10, 2010
I feel compelled to share my views on Marion Witte's book, Little Madhouse on the Prairie. For any child, living within a dysfunctional and abusive family is never a choice, it's their misfortune. The choice, however, to not only move beyond a horrific childhood, but to change one's destiny shows not only the power of optimism, but courage and strength of heart.
I was blessed as a child to be raised within a family where evident love and support was a way of life. I never experienced any manner of abuse and as an adult today, I still can't comprehend how any parent could abuse or neglect their children, or allow others to inflict physical or emotional pain. I can only imagine how difficult it was for Ms. Witte to not only rise above the abuses she suffered, but to become a success in spite of the odds. Heartfelt thanks to Ms. Witte for her willingness to examine her painful past and share it openly in order to promote her own healing, as well as raise the consciousness of the abused, the abusers, and those of us that need to serve as protector and advocate to suffering children.
I view this book as "The Handbook for Hope"; it should be required reading for anyone who works with youngsters who are the victims of abuse, and it can help those who have suffered emotional and physical cruelty understand the importance of healing and living their dreams instead of being haunted by their childhood nightmares. Thank you Ms. Witte, for having the courage to relive, examine, and confront the covert abuses you suffered, and for sharing your long path to recovery with the public. Your book is a moving tribute to the power of hope and the determination to overcome.
I have also posted this review on Amazon.com so others will know it is available to help them.
I was blessed as a child to be raised within a family where evident love and support was a way of life. I never experienced any manner of abuse and as an adult today, I still can't comprehend how any parent could abuse or neglect their children, or allow others to inflict physical or emotional pain. I can only imagine how difficult it was for Ms. Witte to not only rise above the abuses she suffered, but to become a success in spite of the odds. Heartfelt thanks to Ms. Witte for her willingness to examine her painful past and share it openly in order to promote her own healing, as well as raise the consciousness of the abused, the abusers, and those of us that need to serve as protector and advocate to suffering children.
I view this book as "The Handbook for Hope"; it should be required reading for anyone who works with youngsters who are the victims of abuse, and it can help those who have suffered emotional and physical cruelty understand the importance of healing and living their dreams instead of being haunted by their childhood nightmares. Thank you Ms. Witte, for having the courage to relive, examine, and confront the covert abuses you suffered, and for sharing your long path to recovery with the public. Your book is a moving tribute to the power of hope and the determination to overcome.
I have also posted this review on Amazon.com so others will know it is available to help them.
June 15, 2013
It may be a blessing that not everyone relates to this book. Fortunately, most people have not endured the type of life that the author describes. On the other hand, if you are one of the millions of children who lived through a difficult childhood, this book may be just what you need to bring some peace to your life. I was lucky to have been raised in a loving, caring household, yet there are other people in my life that were not so fortunate, and I have recommended this book to them. I enjoyed this simple but very profound read. It engaged me to the point that I finished it in one day. This book delivers a message of hope that is appropriate for so many people, for if we thought about it, we all know someone who has been subjected to some form of mistreatment. The author presents enough background information about her childhood to set the stage for the remainder of the story, without telling us everything that happened. This approach makes the story very readable, without leaving one in total shock or a state of sadness. After portraying her childhood experiences, the book changes tone as the reader is carried on a journey of recovery and hope. For me, I have a new appreciation for what some children go through, and a deeper level of compassion.
I believe that the more we learn about what has happened to others, and what is still happening in our communities and around the world, the more aware we become. We then stand a better chance of working together to bring about the changes that are needed in the lives of children.
I believe that the more we learn about what has happened to others, and what is still happening in our communities and around the world, the more aware we become. We then stand a better chance of working together to bring about the changes that are needed in the lives of children.
September 4, 2013
It is my true wish that everyone read this book, and recognize the power of acknowledgement and forgiveness - not that we have to forget or condone actions of our families - but recognizing we have a choice to take responsibility for our present life. Marion's book is a must read as a way to understand how families' behaviors overtly and subtlety affect children for the rest of their lives, and how the power of facing the lions and tigers and bears can bring us to a place of acceptance, self-love, and peace.
I doubt there is anyone who doesn't recall some element of an unfortunate event in their childhood, and yet there are so many of us who have experienced the physical and psychological abuse dealt by troubled, yet well-meaning parents, and those memories stay with us and impact us every day. Marion's book is a wonderfully touching revelation of her experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family. It is amazing that she was able to grow into the kind, thoughtful, and loving woman she is now. Reading her book brought to the surface many of my own unfortunate events in earlier years. While painful to look at, it is quite cathartic to face those events now, recognize their impact, and choose to forgive and move on with life.
Marion's book is well written, easy to read, will bring tears to your eyes, and a smile to your face! What a fabulous talent Marion has to be able to touch readers in such a way.
Dr. Patricia Carey, Dallas, Texas
I doubt there is anyone who doesn't recall some element of an unfortunate event in their childhood, and yet there are so many of us who have experienced the physical and psychological abuse dealt by troubled, yet well-meaning parents, and those memories stay with us and impact us every day. Marion's book is a wonderfully touching revelation of her experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family. It is amazing that she was able to grow into the kind, thoughtful, and loving woman she is now. Reading her book brought to the surface many of my own unfortunate events in earlier years. While painful to look at, it is quite cathartic to face those events now, recognize their impact, and choose to forgive and move on with life.
Marion's book is well written, easy to read, will bring tears to your eyes, and a smile to your face! What a fabulous talent Marion has to be able to touch readers in such a way.
Dr. Patricia Carey, Dallas, Texas
September 4, 2013
I was deeply moved by this book and could relate to many of the author's stories. I understand all too well how we can carry a painful experience into our adult life, and this book helped me recognize the importance of facing those dark memories, however distant and scary. I have read many books on the subject, penned by doctors and therapists, but this was the first that spoke from the victim’s point of view.
I like the fact that only a portion of the book was spent covering the actual abuse, and the majority of it focused on recovery, and the ups and downs of that journey. The sections on forgiveness were among the most powerful ones for me, as were the parts about having the courage to speak up. These are two areas that are problematic for those of us who have incurred abusive childhoods.
"Madhouse" doesn't have all the answers, nor does it claim to. Instead it shares one individual's journey from a child of abuse to the adult learning to live with it. I would recommend this book to others, for I found great comfort and strength from reading it.
Thank you to the author for sharing it with us.
I like the fact that only a portion of the book was spent covering the actual abuse, and the majority of it focused on recovery, and the ups and downs of that journey. The sections on forgiveness were among the most powerful ones for me, as were the parts about having the courage to speak up. These are two areas that are problematic for those of us who have incurred abusive childhoods.
"Madhouse" doesn't have all the answers, nor does it claim to. Instead it shares one individual's journey from a child of abuse to the adult learning to live with it. I would recommend this book to others, for I found great comfort and strength from reading it.
Thank you to the author for sharing it with us.
June 15, 2013
I was very interested and intrigued when I heard about this book, Little Madhouse on the Prairie: A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit. As I started to read the book, I remembered that I had heard snippets of information about this author over the years. I had not really thought too much about them at that time - until I read this book.
The hair on the back of my neck stood up as I read Marion Witte's insights into the abuse she suffered in her early life. It is really not something I can truly fathom. I am so happy for her that she used those experiences to develop into a bright and very capable woman. I think Ms. Witte is a natural born story teller because Little Madhouse grabs you from the moment you pick it up and you truly understand her feelings as "that scared little girl" during the entire book.
One thing I came away with after reading Little Madhouse is that some people use their negative experiences to become something good and others can't rise above it. I would love to know for sure what separates the two. I recommend this insightful book. Little Madhouse on the Prairie: A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit
The hair on the back of my neck stood up as I read Marion Witte's insights into the abuse she suffered in her early life. It is really not something I can truly fathom. I am so happy for her that she used those experiences to develop into a bright and very capable woman. I think Ms. Witte is a natural born story teller because Little Madhouse grabs you from the moment you pick it up and you truly understand her feelings as "that scared little girl" during the entire book.
One thing I came away with after reading Little Madhouse is that some people use their negative experiences to become something good and others can't rise above it. I would love to know for sure what separates the two. I recommend this insightful book. Little Madhouse on the Prairie: A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit
June 25, 2011
As someone who understands about abuse and the effect it can have on your life, I have to say I loved this book. Not in the way you love a romance novel or a mystery story, but in the way you love a book that is open, honest and authentic. I struggle with the idea of forgiveness, and have not been sure that I could ever reach that point in my life. This book helped me to see that not only is it possible to forgive someone else, it is possible to forgive yourself. My deepest thanks to the author for providing me with some much needed guidance on my journey.
September 10, 2012
I have a strong interest for the memoir genre. I like the drama of a real-life story. I get a thrill out of reading how everyday people overcome adverse circumstances and develop a richer understanding of life. I admire memoirists because they're not wimps. They're gutsy.
Recently, I "met" gutsy Marion Witte online and just finished reading her memoir, Little Madhouse on the Prairie: True Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit. (Angel Heart Publishing 2012) It tells the story of a sweet little girl who grew up on the North Dakota prairie. Deemed a "willful" child, Marion's mother took her discipline methods much, much too far. You can see the effects of that extremism on Marion's kindergarten photo both in her sad eyes and the bruises on her cheeks and forehead.
While Marion's mother was exacting her rage on her children, Marion's father was either out working the farm or out working on another drink at the town bar. Marion was abandoned.
The resilience of a little girl who grew up having never received tenderness amazes me. But Marion grew and despite a phase of self-destruct during high school, devoted herself to creating a better future. College coursework was easy for Marion and she earned a degree in accounting. Eventually though, the unhealed trauma of her youth became too much and in order to move forward, Marion had to go back. She shares the many methods and insights she learned to come to grips with her past and heal the emotional wounds.
As heartbreaking as it is to read, this book will offer hope and encouragement to anyone dealing with similar issues. There is hope in the message. And an understanding that, if Marion can survive and thrive, I can too.
Recently, I "met" gutsy Marion Witte online and just finished reading her memoir, Little Madhouse on the Prairie: True Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit. (Angel Heart Publishing 2012) It tells the story of a sweet little girl who grew up on the North Dakota prairie. Deemed a "willful" child, Marion's mother took her discipline methods much, much too far. You can see the effects of that extremism on Marion's kindergarten photo both in her sad eyes and the bruises on her cheeks and forehead.
While Marion's mother was exacting her rage on her children, Marion's father was either out working the farm or out working on another drink at the town bar. Marion was abandoned.
The resilience of a little girl who grew up having never received tenderness amazes me. But Marion grew and despite a phase of self-destruct during high school, devoted herself to creating a better future. College coursework was easy for Marion and she earned a degree in accounting. Eventually though, the unhealed trauma of her youth became too much and in order to move forward, Marion had to go back. She shares the many methods and insights she learned to come to grips with her past and heal the emotional wounds.
As heartbreaking as it is to read, this book will offer hope and encouragement to anyone dealing with similar issues. There is hope in the message. And an understanding that, if Marion can survive and thrive, I can too.
August 21, 2013
I am a member of a small book club in Los Angeles. Each of our members takes a turn picking out the next book we will read. Some pick current best-sellers, some pick old classics, and some relatively unknown books.
A friend recommended Little Madhouse on the Prairie as my selection, and I picked it for several reasons:
-We had just finished a book by a big name author, and I wanted to compare that type of read to a book by a new author
-The subject material of the book was intriguing to me
-The book contained a Book Club Discussion section which was very helpful
I must say I was shocked as I read this book, perhaps due to the sheltered childhood I had. I come from a very loving home, so the idea that a child could be treated the way it is portrayed in the book was very foreign to me. It was not the easiest material to absorb, but I am glad I stuck with it. For one thing, I feel so fortunate to have been raised in the environment I was. The “problems” in my childhood seem very unimportant when I now understand what other children have to endure. I also realize now that I probably have friends in my life who have had difficult childhoods, but who don’t talk about it because of the guilt and shame. I think reading this book has opened my eyes, and made me a more aware and compassionate person.
A friend recommended Little Madhouse on the Prairie as my selection, and I picked it for several reasons:
-We had just finished a book by a big name author, and I wanted to compare that type of read to a book by a new author
-The subject material of the book was intriguing to me
-The book contained a Book Club Discussion section which was very helpful
I must say I was shocked as I read this book, perhaps due to the sheltered childhood I had. I come from a very loving home, so the idea that a child could be treated the way it is portrayed in the book was very foreign to me. It was not the easiest material to absorb, but I am glad I stuck with it. For one thing, I feel so fortunate to have been raised in the environment I was. The “problems” in my childhood seem very unimportant when I now understand what other children have to endure. I also realize now that I probably have friends in my life who have had difficult childhoods, but who don’t talk about it because of the guilt and shame. I think reading this book has opened my eyes, and made me a more aware and compassionate person.
August 16, 2013
Honest and inspirational,"Little Madhouse on the Prairie" chronicles Marion Witte's triumph over an abusive childhood. Written in a straight-forward and engaging style, the book begins by Marion poignantly recalling the double-tragedy that took place while she was growing up. Not only did she suffer unspeakable abuse by family and friends of family, but she also suffered tragic neglect from those who knew about it and were supposed to protect her, but did nothing to stop it. It is hard to imagine that a parent could do either, but Marion's story shows us that this dark cycle can be broken and a new legacy of hope can grow.
In later chapters, Marion outlines the hard work she did to overcome the scars of her abuse and the important role of forgiveness. She outlines various options that an individual can take to not only survive, but to absolutely thrive as she did!
This is an important book for anyone that is a parent, works with children and especially to those who share this type of unfortunate history. Thank you Marion for bravely reaching out to those who need help, as well as for such a powerful reminder on the importance to love and advocate for all children.
In later chapters, Marion outlines the hard work she did to overcome the scars of her abuse and the important role of forgiveness. She outlines various options that an individual can take to not only survive, but to absolutely thrive as she did!
This is an important book for anyone that is a parent, works with children and especially to those who share this type of unfortunate history. Thank you Marion for bravely reaching out to those who need help, as well as for such a powerful reminder on the importance to love and advocate for all children.
April 5, 2011
I am not a big reader and I must admit I had your book for about two weeks before I actually picked it up and read it. I have heard you speak on about three or four different occasions. When I finally picked up your book, I couldn’t put it down. At times it brought tears to my eyes. I felt like I was there with you. I could relate to much of it. The emotional abuse,the family looking good on the outside to others, the brother who tormented you, babysitting, staying busy so you wouldn’t have to go home, your friend Beverly, and your dad was my dad. When you talked about the families on TV…that hit home. I used to think that those kind of families were only on TV. I used to watch the Cosby Show and wish I was in that family. Reading your book and hearing what you have to say has opened my eyes. It gave me a little more understanding of myself. I removed the blinders and am much more aware of what is going on around me. I admire your open mindedness, to whatever works (hypnosis) for the healing process. I am one who wants to save the world but like you say, “one person at a time.” Thank you Marion for being you and helping me to be a better me. You are an inspiration and I hope to follow your lead.
August 10, 2012
Marion Witte is an inspiration and a role model for those in recovery from all forms of abuse. She has in fact paved the way for a new paradigm of healing from abuse. Her book reveals with great insight the loss of childhood that occurs when a parent, who is abusive and cruel, withholds the love and acceptance that a child so desperately needs and longs for. In her humble and powerful way, Marion transformed her life by telling her truth with courageous honesty,risking adversity and rejection by exposing the dark events of her childhood. Through her enormous commitment to heal,Marion has shown us that healing and liberation are available in the miracle of forgiveness and that every painful experience contains a blessing.
Thank you Marion for this rich,deep offering and awareness that is transforming our lives. My hope is that "Little Madhouse on the Prairie" moves on to the New York Times best seller list. This book is a gift to humanity!
Christina Kramer M.A.,Healer/Counselor
Santa Barbara,Ca.
Thank you Marion for this rich,deep offering and awareness that is transforming our lives. My hope is that "Little Madhouse on the Prairie" moves on to the New York Times best seller list. This book is a gift to humanity!
Christina Kramer M.A.,Healer/Counselor
Santa Barbara,Ca.
September 9, 2013
A book that tells the story of so many!
Little Madhouse on the Prairie is the true life story of Marion Witte's life on a rural farm, from childhood on. Marion shares her experiences as a child, her raw emotional reactions, and her determination to get out and live her life differently. However leaving the farm wasn't as easy as a geographical move. The emotional baggage from her childhood moved with her.
Marion's story is a journey out of the damaging wreckage of an abusive beginning. She candidly shares her story in a brutally honest way as she heals each of the influences in order to become the stong woman she is today. I read this book, often with tears streaming down my face, resonating with the story and the recovery.
I feel a kindred spirit in this writer and am recharged to continue my journey as well. Bravo Marion!
Patricia Strickland
Teacher and Counselor
Little Madhouse on the Prairie is the true life story of Marion Witte's life on a rural farm, from childhood on. Marion shares her experiences as a child, her raw emotional reactions, and her determination to get out and live her life differently. However leaving the farm wasn't as easy as a geographical move. The emotional baggage from her childhood moved with her.
Marion's story is a journey out of the damaging wreckage of an abusive beginning. She candidly shares her story in a brutally honest way as she heals each of the influences in order to become the stong woman she is today. I read this book, often with tears streaming down my face, resonating with the story and the recovery.
I feel a kindred spirit in this writer and am recharged to continue my journey as well. Bravo Marion!
Patricia Strickland
Teacher and Counselor
September 6, 2010
Marion Witte is an amazing and inspiring woman in so many ways. First, she had the strength to confront her demons and wounds that she carried around with her for so long. And then she had the ability to turn her experiences into an amazing book. Everyone needs to be made aware of what can go on when we're not looking. And everyone who has endured abuse needs to know that there are healthy and safe ways of healing and moving on. They don't have to live in pain and silence forever. The book was a perfect combination of wonderful and heartbreaking. My heart is with Marion Witte in her journey she continues on today.
I won this book in a Goodreads First Reads drawing and feel very blessed in doing so. I think it was something I needed.
I won this book in a Goodreads First Reads drawing and feel very blessed in doing so. I think it was something I needed.
April 24, 2012
Reading Little Madhouse on the Prarie was like taking a journey through my own life. There were pieces that were a bit different than my own life and yet I felt connected, so connected in fact that I felt the need to contact the author directly and convey the message to her. Her book gave me ideas on how I might move forward in healing my own traumas and bring light and love to the parts inside that have been hurting for many years. For the first time in a long time I feel as though I have the opportunity to feel whole again. If Marion can do it, so can I!
May 1, 2011
GIVES A VOICE TO THE SILENCE OF THOSE WHO ARE WOUNDED
I was moved on so many levels by this story, and the commitment to carry the exploration through to the point of loving your inner child, and claiming your inheritance. I found myself understanding my parents on new levels, feeling their suffering, releasing them from old grudges, and affirming myself in my own commitment to fulfilling my desires to create and love more freely. Not only for myself, but also to create a new legacy in the family bloodline.
At first this work seems deeply personal, biographical. But there is a transcendent voice that comes through that echoes friends of mine whose personal growth I've seen drop off at points when it become too painful for them to move through. Voices of my own brothers who told me they deserved the beatings they were dealt, while I felt scarred merely to have witnessed them. It takes a lot of courage to acknowledge the violence, and use your life energy to break the pattern rather than replicate it. My father accused me of always focusing on the negative, and claims to have no recollection of the most traumatic moments in our relationship. Thank you for sharing that this is a common symptom of the deep wound. And more importantly, that it can be healed without apologies or witnesses.
I was moved on so many levels by this story, and the commitment to carry the exploration through to the point of loving your inner child, and claiming your inheritance. I found myself understanding my parents on new levels, feeling their suffering, releasing them from old grudges, and affirming myself in my own commitment to fulfilling my desires to create and love more freely. Not only for myself, but also to create a new legacy in the family bloodline.
At first this work seems deeply personal, biographical. But there is a transcendent voice that comes through that echoes friends of mine whose personal growth I've seen drop off at points when it become too painful for them to move through. Voices of my own brothers who told me they deserved the beatings they were dealt, while I felt scarred merely to have witnessed them. It takes a lot of courage to acknowledge the violence, and use your life energy to break the pattern rather than replicate it. My father accused me of always focusing on the negative, and claims to have no recollection of the most traumatic moments in our relationship. Thank you for sharing that this is a common symptom of the deep wound. And more importantly, that it can be healed without apologies or witnesses.
September 11, 2011
I Was Drawn Into This Book!
It took a lot of courage for me to pick up the book and begin to read "Little Madhouse on the Prairie." I was afraid I would have nightmares, or it would feel like getting a tooth drilled without Novocain. I thought the subject of child abuse would be too painful. Yet I was surprised to find myself drawn into the scenes in the book with a fascination and interest in exploring just how resilient the spirit can be. I was inspired to know that one can survive that much distress and come out fighting for life, saying "no, you cannot treat me like that anymore," and with a belief that a child could grow up with the ambition and drive to create a better life. It is inspiring that we as human beings can go thru this much horror and be able to heal to the point of wanting to give something back. It is a sacrifice to write, relive and share the experiences in the book. It is a gift to bring the conditions out that have usually stayed in the closet.
The book is a tool to advocate for children to have the right to have a safe, sane and enriching environment in which to grow up. I am certain more children will be protected because of this book. It is a must read for anyone interested in children, healing and education.
Thank you, Marion Witte, for your strength, courage and compassion.
It took a lot of courage for me to pick up the book and begin to read "Little Madhouse on the Prairie." I was afraid I would have nightmares, or it would feel like getting a tooth drilled without Novocain. I thought the subject of child abuse would be too painful. Yet I was surprised to find myself drawn into the scenes in the book with a fascination and interest in exploring just how resilient the spirit can be. I was inspired to know that one can survive that much distress and come out fighting for life, saying "no, you cannot treat me like that anymore," and with a belief that a child could grow up with the ambition and drive to create a better life. It is inspiring that we as human beings can go thru this much horror and be able to heal to the point of wanting to give something back. It is a sacrifice to write, relive and share the experiences in the book. It is a gift to bring the conditions out that have usually stayed in the closet.
The book is a tool to advocate for children to have the right to have a safe, sane and enriching environment in which to grow up. I am certain more children will be protected because of this book. It is a must read for anyone interested in children, healing and education.
Thank you, Marion Witte, for your strength, courage and compassion.
February 10, 2011
I was given Little Madhouse on the Prairie some weeks back. After reading it, I was moved to comment on it, in hopes that it will wind up in the hands of those who can benefit from its message.
Marion Witte’s story is every child’s worst nightmare. The fact that she endured the physical and emotional scares of her childhood is incredible. But, even more incredible, is her intense desire to prevent or help others who might be suffering as she did. This is truly a case of realizing the blessing that can be found in the worst of circumstances.
Little Madhouse on the Prairie: A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit is the story of a childhood filled with mistreatment and one person's path to recovery. Read it if you want to know what real inspiration truly is. I give a copy of ‘Madhouse’ to many of my clients as a message of hope and help.
Ms. Witte is not now, nor has she ever been, a patient of mine.
Dr. Bunny Vreeland
Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist
Marion Witte’s story is every child’s worst nightmare. The fact that she endured the physical and emotional scares of her childhood is incredible. But, even more incredible, is her intense desire to prevent or help others who might be suffering as she did. This is truly a case of realizing the blessing that can be found in the worst of circumstances.
Little Madhouse on the Prairie: A True-Life Story of Overcoming Abuse and Healing the Spirit is the story of a childhood filled with mistreatment and one person's path to recovery. Read it if you want to know what real inspiration truly is. I give a copy of ‘Madhouse’ to many of my clients as a message of hope and help.
Ms. Witte is not now, nor has she ever been, a patient of mine.
Dr. Bunny Vreeland
Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist
February 10, 2011
A BOOK THAT ENGENDERS HOPE
In Little Madhouse on the Prairie, Marion describes the abuse she suffered as a child and the actions she took to recover from the abuse. As a therapist, I am struck with her progression from being a victim to personal empowerment. That came with the commitment to heal herself, not merely to survive the abuse, but to thrive. Her journey through various modes of healing will be valuable to others who have not yet made this journey. In the final section, Lessons I have Learned, the reader will gain an understanding of how childhood abuse can affect one's behavior in the present. The book engenders hope because Ms. Witte shows that it is not the abuse itself, but rather her responses to the abuse that creates the person one becomes.
Nan Gold, M.A., MFT
In Little Madhouse on the Prairie, Marion describes the abuse she suffered as a child and the actions she took to recover from the abuse. As a therapist, I am struck with her progression from being a victim to personal empowerment. That came with the commitment to heal herself, not merely to survive the abuse, but to thrive. Her journey through various modes of healing will be valuable to others who have not yet made this journey. In the final section, Lessons I have Learned, the reader will gain an understanding of how childhood abuse can affect one's behavior in the present. The book engenders hope because Ms. Witte shows that it is not the abuse itself, but rather her responses to the abuse that creates the person one becomes.
Nan Gold, M.A., MFT
April 22, 2011
I am not a victim of abuse so I did not expect this book to impact me so greatly, but boy was I wrong. This is a moving story about an amazing woman whose inner strength is an example to all of us. It helped me to understand other people and to help those in my family who have suffered their own traumas. Thanks to Witte's willingness to share her story, other people have hope of healing as well. I recommend this to any person no matter what your own life experiences have been.
November 15, 2010
Reading this book, you sense how lonely and scared Marion felt at different times in her life. Life is challenging for a child who is not shown unconditional love. Reading this book, you want to reach out and rescue her. Neglect & abuse can leave deep scars that take a long time to heal, if ever. Marion shares the abuse she was exposed to and the process in which she goes through to heal her life. Reading this book makes you realize that one does not have to remain the victim or repeat the cycle of child abuse. This book presents the power of hope and the willpower to triumph over an abusive childhood. I would definitely recommend this book to others.
Thank you Marion for sharing your past & your journey of healing.
Thank you Marion for sharing your past & your journey of healing.
Read
October 28, 2010Being an abuse survivor myself, although the circumstances and type were different, I completely identified with Marion in this book. Ironic how the feelings remain the same; the fear remains the same; the pain remains the same. What I am grateful for is that the courage was the same. The courage to make it through and percervere in spite of the trauma thrust upon us.
This book will inspire those who have had similar experiences, and will give those who have not the empathy and understanding for those who have. I wish I could say that her experience was unique, but the truth is that abuse is common place. Brava to Marion for telling her story, as she is the voice of the voiceless.
This book will inspire those who have had similar experiences, and will give those who have not the empathy and understanding for those who have. I wish I could say that her experience was unique, but the truth is that abuse is common place. Brava to Marion for telling her story, as she is the voice of the voiceless.
September 9, 2010
Little Madhouse on the Prairie is a heart wrenching story about Marion Witte ,s childhood of abuse by her mother, the punishments had devastating emotional effects on her.She later found out that the abuse she suffered started generations back, none of her relatives wanted to talk about what happened to them as children she saw some of her cousins being abused and her parents said and did nothing about it.had to put the book down and come back to it later it brought tears to my eyes at some points . i wish i could give it more than 5 stars won it on goodreads.
November 9, 2010
Ms. Witte is one of the most amazing human beings I have met to date. She is a wonderful mother, child advocate, writer, business woman, and God Send. She is also an entrepreneur and speaker. In my opinion, she is a true teacher and angel. It is such a brave thing to uncover such a taboo topic such as child abuse and speak for so many individuals who are still suffering and lost in their past.
This book is really for anyone and everyone. It may appear at first to be written for the child abused audience, but it is absolutely for everybody because child abuse is more prevalent than many believe. 1 in 4 individuals have, are, or are going to be abused. The book is well written due to the fact that it is a simple biography on one individual's life that many people can identify with.
She believes that we cannot begin to heal our wounds until we admit we are wounded. It sounds so simple, but is often so difficult for so many individuals to do. She believes that no matter what type of abuse that a person has been through healing and recovery is possible. She also feels that forgiving the unforgivable in order to heal the heart and spirit is a must. Releasing the past pain came after she forgave her abusers for abusing her, and forgiving her father for not being there for her and neglecting her. The most important lesson she learned is to forgive. This book leaves you feeling hopeful and inspired.
I am the President of the ADS Peer Leadership Club at Oxnard College and enrolled in the Addiction Disorder Studies Program. The program educates and trains students to become a counselor in the field of mental health, addiction, and so on. We learn a lot about child abuse and in my opinion it is something I run into more often then none, while working in the field of counseling. I met Ms. Witte after she came to our class as a guest speaker to talk about her journey and her book. We then had Ms.Witte come back to be guest speaker again for a Domestic Violence Awareness event to speak to future counseling students. She was a true success...and they loved her book and her presentation. I recommned this book personally and professionally. You should purchase this book for you and those you love.
This book is really for anyone and everyone. It may appear at first to be written for the child abused audience, but it is absolutely for everybody because child abuse is more prevalent than many believe. 1 in 4 individuals have, are, or are going to be abused. The book is well written due to the fact that it is a simple biography on one individual's life that many people can identify with.
She believes that we cannot begin to heal our wounds until we admit we are wounded. It sounds so simple, but is often so difficult for so many individuals to do. She believes that no matter what type of abuse that a person has been through healing and recovery is possible. She also feels that forgiving the unforgivable in order to heal the heart and spirit is a must. Releasing the past pain came after she forgave her abusers for abusing her, and forgiving her father for not being there for her and neglecting her. The most important lesson she learned is to forgive. This book leaves you feeling hopeful and inspired.
I am the President of the ADS Peer Leadership Club at Oxnard College and enrolled in the Addiction Disorder Studies Program. The program educates and trains students to become a counselor in the field of mental health, addiction, and so on. We learn a lot about child abuse and in my opinion it is something I run into more often then none, while working in the field of counseling. I met Ms. Witte after she came to our class as a guest speaker to talk about her journey and her book. We then had Ms.Witte come back to be guest speaker again for a Domestic Violence Awareness event to speak to future counseling students. She was a true success...and they loved her book and her presentation. I recommned this book personally and professionally. You should purchase this book for you and those you love.
September 20, 2010
Little Madhouse chronicles the life of the author. Most of this memoir is spent reviewing recollections of the abuse Marion sustained while growing up on a small farm in North Dakota. It is heart-wrenching. The book helped me to realize how thankful I am for growing up in a loving and supportive household. As a father to a wonderful daughter, it broke my heart to think that anyone could treat their daughter the way Marion was treated.
I thoroughly enjoyed the author's writing style. She captivated me with her story. The tone and voice was conversational and clear. These kinds of things make a difference to me when I read a book.
Thoughts
* This is not really a self help book. It is primarily a memoir. The first two thirds or so give a vivid picture of Marion's home life. The last third describes the impact those early events had on her life and how she has managed to work through most of the issues that surround her abuse.
* Pay close attention to the players in the first couple of chapters. It gets a bit complicated so you may have to go back and reread a few sections. I found that skipping ahead to the pictures helped me to keep the players straight in my head.
* If you suffered abuse as a child, I believe this book may help you to sort out some of the many issues that result from the abuse. Chances are you are experiencing the same kinds of difficulties in your adult life that Marion has faced. You may be heartened by her successes in dealing with her issues.
* If you did not come from an abusive home, this story will still touch you. The determination of the human spirit shines through and that is one of the reasons I found this book to be so inspiring.
I thoroughly enjoyed the author's writing style. She captivated me with her story. The tone and voice was conversational and clear. These kinds of things make a difference to me when I read a book.
Thoughts
* This is not really a self help book. It is primarily a memoir. The first two thirds or so give a vivid picture of Marion's home life. The last third describes the impact those early events had on her life and how she has managed to work through most of the issues that surround her abuse.
* Pay close attention to the players in the first couple of chapters. It gets a bit complicated so you may have to go back and reread a few sections. I found that skipping ahead to the pictures helped me to keep the players straight in my head.
* If you suffered abuse as a child, I believe this book may help you to sort out some of the many issues that result from the abuse. Chances are you are experiencing the same kinds of difficulties in your adult life that Marion has faced. You may be heartened by her successes in dealing with her issues.
* If you did not come from an abusive home, this story will still touch you. The determination of the human spirit shines through and that is one of the reasons I found this book to be so inspiring.
September 16, 2010
This is the story of Marion the child who grew up in a farmhouse in North Dakota; it was far from a happy home. It is also about Marion the grown-up dealing with the after-affects of being abused. What sets this book apart from other books about abuse is it doesn’t detail all the abuse she suffered, yes she tells us about some of it, but it is more about her journey to recovery.
This book touched me in so many ways one, because it is set in my home state of North Dakota the farmhouse she describes is so much like the one my grandparents had although luckily for me our farmhouse was full of love.
The journey to self-awareness Marion goes on is powerful and heart wrenching, the pain she suffered at the hands of her mother, brother and alcoholic emotionally absent father follow her through everything she does even when she doesn’t realize it. As we go on this journey with her, to psychotherapy, hypnotherapy and even a shaman to help her deal with the demons left inside by years of physical and emotional abuse. We finally meet the amazing woman Marion becomes, because of what she has gone through. We see a woman who has come to self-realization, healing and forgiveness and came out of it a better person.
If you were touched by the books Child Called It or The Glass Castle this is a must read.
5 Stars
Full Disclosure- I won this book through Goodreads Giveaway
This book touched me in so many ways one, because it is set in my home state of North Dakota the farmhouse she describes is so much like the one my grandparents had although luckily for me our farmhouse was full of love.
The journey to self-awareness Marion goes on is powerful and heart wrenching, the pain she suffered at the hands of her mother, brother and alcoholic emotionally absent father follow her through everything she does even when she doesn’t realize it. As we go on this journey with her, to psychotherapy, hypnotherapy and even a shaman to help her deal with the demons left inside by years of physical and emotional abuse. We finally meet the amazing woman Marion becomes, because of what she has gone through. We see a woman who has come to self-realization, healing and forgiveness and came out of it a better person.
If you were touched by the books Child Called It or The Glass Castle this is a must read.
5 Stars
Full Disclosure- I won this book through Goodreads Giveaway
September 20, 2011
This is a true story, Marion Witte’s story. She goes into intimate detail to explain how things came to be the way they were. She is very sensitive and even understanding of what her family was like and who they were. Marion offers acceptance and respect to the people that were her grandparents and parents, in spite of things not being “right”. I found this to be a great statement about healing and the person that Marion Witte has become.
Marion chooses to focus on the journey of overcoming abuse. She tells of the effects of what she endured because of the abuse, but even more importantly the recovery involved in surviving abuse. She does not focus on the what, so much as the why, and the way out.
The journey is difficult, yet Marion Witte reaches deep within herself to overcome years, even generations of abuse. She sets forth an example for others on similar journeys of their own.
Marion searches for herself through many sources from medical professionals to spiritual shaman. What we sometimes cannot understand, we must learn to accept in order to heal and overcome. Forgiveness is the key to healing. Ultimately, Marion does find herself and healing. She also finds she has much to offer and share. Marion sets herself free, through acceptance, forgiveness and healing.
Marion Witte’s message is important. It is one about overcoming abuse and healing the spirit. The world is a better place because of Marion Witte and her brave and honest book.
Marion chooses to focus on the journey of overcoming abuse. She tells of the effects of what she endured because of the abuse, but even more importantly the recovery involved in surviving abuse. She does not focus on the what, so much as the why, and the way out.
The journey is difficult, yet Marion Witte reaches deep within herself to overcome years, even generations of abuse. She sets forth an example for others on similar journeys of their own.
Marion searches for herself through many sources from medical professionals to spiritual shaman. What we sometimes cannot understand, we must learn to accept in order to heal and overcome. Forgiveness is the key to healing. Ultimately, Marion does find herself and healing. She also finds she has much to offer and share. Marion sets herself free, through acceptance, forgiveness and healing.
Marion Witte’s message is important. It is one about overcoming abuse and healing the spirit. The world is a better place because of Marion Witte and her brave and honest book.
October 30, 2010
A simply straightforward story of a real woman's life, written with a kind of honesty that is enchanting and brave. It's the real life of one valiant woman, yet on a deeper level it is the story of so many women, and one of archetypal proportion. Ms. Witte is a kind of Pied Piper for women and children, so many of whom have suffered and stayed silent, entreating us to come forward into the light and follow her example. This is the kind of book that comes back to you over and over long after you've read the last page and closed the book. Hurray, Marion, for your honesty and for the road you've traveled. Hurray for you, and hurray for us, your fans and readers, who feel your experience deeply. Your suffering, hard work, joy, dedication and bravery feeds the souls of all who read your words. This world is a richer place because Marion Witte has had the courage to step forward and share her story with the rest of us.
November 25, 2010
This is a wonderful story about healing, forgiveness and breaking the cycle of abuse in a family. It is well written and easy to read and does a good job of telling a story through a child's eyes. As Marion states in her book, everyone deals with childhood abuse in their own unique way but we all strive for the same thing. This story should give hope to anyone who is struggling with childhood and family histories that are difficult. Thanks for sharing, Marion!
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