Having worked extensively in my practice with survivors of sexual molestation, I know how frighteningly alone they often feel with the shame that is their secret. This book offers permission and encouragement to reveal that secret, which in turn provides the opportunity to move from shame to healing. Congratulations to the authors for helping to break the devastating silence. —Judy Justin, M.A., L.M.F.T., Fallbrook, CA ___________________________________________________________________ The book, My Imaginary Friend, tells the story of a seven-year-old girl by the name of Kathann. Kathann is an innocent child with a wonderful and creative imagination. Her creativity helps her face the terrible secret that she is a victim of sexual abuse. Through Kathann’s imagination, she meets Becky, a young girl who encourages her to confront the secret and face her fears of sharing the secret with an adult. Told from a child’s perspective, the story is a wonderful tool to help children gain the courage to speak out when they find themselves molested or abused by an adult. In a supportive and gentle dialogue, the authors raise important issues of trust and fears about the results of telling. The well-crafted illustrations that accompany the story will help children follow Kathann’s journey of taking the first step toward survival and healing. Kathann is a young girl faced with dealing with the terrible secret of being a victim of molestation. Through the eyes and imagination of Kathann, children who are victims of abuse will learn from Kathann’s experience that they have the ability to conquer their pain and fears and take that crucial step of telling an adult. Unfortunately, there are many child predators in society. With a comfortable and easy to read story of strength and encouragement, My Imaginary Friend not only benefits children who are victims of abuse, but will also help other children speak out if something bad happens to them. My Imaginary Friend teaches children that they have the strength to tell an adult when someone hurts them. It is also a wonderful way for parents to discuss the topic with their children without scaring them. The book would be a great addition to libraries. —Tracy Roberts, Write Field Services In My Imaginary Friend, seven-year-old Kathann has a big secret—one she tries never to think about. Kathann likes to do is daydream that she is a princess whose father protects her from ever being hurt. She escapes into this same daydream whenever her step dad comes into her room late at night. A girl appears who only Kathann can see. At first Kathann is surprised and uncertain until she learns this girl is a friend—and that she understands Kathann's secret. With her new friend's encouragement, Kathann finally lets her secret be known.

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