Scars by Cheryl Rainfield Publisher: Westside Books (March 24th, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 250 pages Source: Author Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Kendra, fifteen, hasn't felt safe since she began to recall devastating memories of childhood sexual abuse, especially because she still can't remember the most important detail-- her abuser's identity. Frightened, Kendra believes someone is always watching and following her, leaving menacing messages only she understands. If she lets her guard down even for a minute, it could cost Kendra her life. To relieve the pressure, Kendra cuts; aside from her brilliantly expressive artwork, it's her only way of coping. Since her own mother is too self-absorbed to hear her cries for help, Kendra finds support in others instead: from her therapist and her art teacher, from Sandy, the close family friend who encourages her artwork, and from Meghan, the classmate who's becoming a friend and maybe more. But the truth about Kendra's abuse is just waiting to explode, with startling unforeseen consequences. Scars is the unforgettable story of one girl's frightening path to the truth.
Review: This is such a heart-breaking story. After reading it, I know it is one that I will never forget. Kendra is being tortured by the glimpses of memories from her past. Those memories are ones that are of the horrible sexual abuse she experienced. Something that complicates Kendra's situation further is that she can't remember the face of her abuser. To attempt to deal with the pain she cuts herself as a way to release her emotions. Now Kendra is being watched and she knows her predator is back to try to control her again.
Kendra uses her art as a way to hold on to reality. That, along with her therapist Carolyn, are the only things that seem to keep Kendra moving forward. Soon Kendra gets to know Meghan, a girl from school, and instantly realizes what true love might be. Meghan has issues of her own but together her and Kendra are able to support and trust one another. Their love is sweet, gentle, and I felt Cheryl was able to express the true emotions of each character. Watching their relationship slowly progress gave me hope that Kendra had finally found the connection she needed.
Carolyn was able to give Kendra the help she needed in order to deal with the deeper issues involving memories, cutting, and the abuse itself. Her assistance enabled Kendra to take her time coming to terms with the flashes of memories she experienced. I loved the fact that this book did show the importance of someone receiving psychological help from a professional.
This story isn't just about love and healing. It has a powerful, shocking ending that made me speechless. It is disturbing and Cheryl doesn't shy away from the truth of abuse. I think the reality this book presents is exactly what more YA books need to incorporate. Sexual abuse is something that happens to many teens and young adults. It is a difficult topic but it is important for readers to fully understand what emotional problems can go along with being abused. It does not stop after the act or after the abuser has been caught and punished. As with Kendra's story, it can lead to self-harm and emotional instability that cannot be ignored.
For more information on Cheryl Rainfield or Scars: Cheryl Rainfield / Twitter / Goodreads
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