Dad, there are things about my childhood I'd like to know.
I don't want to talk about it. It would only hurt your mother.
But Dad, you're the only one who can tell me.
I don't want to talk about it, it would only hurt your mother.
I don't want to talk about it. It would only hurt your mother.
But Dad, you're the only one who can tell me.
I don't want to talk about it, it would only hurt your mother.
|
Stories told by parents and their families to protect themselves. A father who defends his wife despite her damage to their daughter’s health and welfare. A mother, shielded by her husband, who perpetuates murderous acts of violence against the daughter, and keeps secret her husband’s sexual “play” with the young girl.
And yet … Nancy King, determined to learn the truth of her childhood and the heartbreaking effects it has had on her adult life, uncovers the secrets. Sees through the lies. Breaks the silence. Empowered by the stories she told herself as a child, she learns to use stories as part of her work as a university professor teaching theatre, drama, world literature, creative expression. Gradually, with the help of body work and therapy, she finds her voice. Says no to abuse and abusers. Reclaims her self and life. Writes a memoir. |
|
Virtual Book Launch
October 15, 2020 |
|
|
What readers had to say
|
I just finished reading “Breaking the Silence”. I’m speechless. I read most of it in one sitting with tears in my eyes. I’m so sorry that our family could just stand by and let this abuse happen! Judi F. I cannot put it down, but I cannot read too much at one time. It is horrible and mesmerizing, and I am awed not only that you survived, but at your lifelong instinct to help others. Carol S I just finished your book. I’m sorry it took me so long, but I had to read it in parts. I cannot believe the horrors you have had to face in your life. I am so sorry you had to go through all that. I admire your strength in persevering and overcoming. Most of all, I admire and appreciate your willingness to make yourself vulnerable by writing and sharing your story. Thank you! Katherine H. I have barely touched the book and it's electrifying! I opened it to one very quick read of two pages and the tears just started flowing. This is powerful, healing and knee jerking. I won't be able to put it down. Something my heart has been aching for. You are such a true healer and a shaker and a mover! Thank you for always sharing with me and being a part of my life experience. Words just can't say enough. Thank you. Aantonija You have written a wonderful book. Phil E. |
Thank you for writing such a courageous, honest, beautiful and terrifying book. I read it cover to cover in one day. The next day I picked it up again to be sure. I am so glad you are alive to tell the tale. You are a miracle! Devavani I cried, laughed, became angry, thoughtful, restless, sad, happy, cranky, upset, unsettled, what else? Gosh Nancy, I truly would like to hug you. I met you at a time in your life where you were in a very good place. Sharing my friends with you as connections on this earth are meant to be shared. I can not imagine what you lived. You were a child of light, born into a family of darkness. You shine so brightly for all to reach out to and warm themselves with your light. You are truly a miracle and special in all ways. Meghan H. Although I knew some of it, seeing your whole life story unfold as it did in the book was something else. This book is an important one... I'm sure that there will be many who can relate to it on the deepest personal level. It would be nice if they could relate to some of the beautiful and positive things you experienced along the way, as well. Bravo, for your best book yet!!! Susanna S. |
I just finished reading “Breaking the Silence” and had to tell you how important this book is to me. Your stories brought me back to places I have never explored—in spite of 8 years of excellent therapy. I am hoping I now have the courage to write about these and bring them into consciousness. Thank you for your inspirational courage, and for your exquisite book. Donna R Thank you so much for sharing your book below. I went out and purchased it as soon as you shared and I just finished this past weekend. I'm not sure I have something new to say other than what you've already heard but I really appreciated your honesty and humbleness. I can't believe it's been over 20 years since I first took your class. Reading your book reminded me of what I first learned from you - the power of stories. - a former student |