A Letter to a Friend - The Story of Abuse in America

DR. JAMES W. PEARSON, ACSW, LPC - Graduate Professor and former Mental Health Center Director -


"As a professional counselor and educator for over thirty years, directing a mental health center and teaching on a graduate and undergraduate level, I have had the opportunity to witness first-hand some of the terrible consequences of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is a problem that crosses all social and cultural lines and impacts on everyone, not only the victim of abuse, but children who themselves may get caught up in this terrible cycle of abuse.

Many years ago, I was fortunate to have Patty Smith as one of my students and I had foreseen her potential to be an excellent teacher or counselor who could make a very strong impact on the lives of others. As I read A Letter to a Friend, I feel she has more than exceeded my expectations. As I perused each passage of A Letter to a Friend, I found it to be moving and insightful with a powerful message not only for the victim of abuse - but a message that transcends to anyone who cares about the circumstances of those who are caught up in this terrible web of abuse. I strongly recommend A Letter to a Friend to everyone; and especially to those who need to read its message and comprehend their need to empower themselves to take the steps necessary to break the cycle. "



LEAH LEUTHAUSER, MA, LPC -

"A Letter to a Friend is an extremely emotional and gripping read! Domestic violence is not only about horrific acts that leave bumps, bruises, scars, broken bones, . . and occasionally even death. Patty Wain Smith does an incredible job depicting how abuse takes more than a physical toll on victims, but strong emotional and psychological tolls, as well! This book gives the reader a clear and deep understanding of what abuse truly looks like. It is given a face, and the reader is part of the story.

As a therapist, I have worked with hundreds of people impacted by abuse. A Letter to a Friend gives the reader a true look inside the minds of so many. The feelings of isolation and fear are immobilizing for many victims. I feel very strongly this book can aid and empower victims, ultimately helping them to transition from victims to survivors.
Standing ovation. Simply amazing!"



DAVID ZINMAN - Author of The Day Huey Long Was Shot and former prize-winning AP Journalist/Newsday Reporter (first 12 pages) -

"Excellent! A dark story told with deep insight. Gripping. Beautifully written. Told like it is. First rate work!"



BOOK SUMMARY

Why does she stay? That's what author Patty Wain Smith must discern as she discovers that among the strangers she works to help is one of her own very dear friends with young children. A Letter to a Friend - The Story of Abuse in America is a Christian based, passionate portrayal of domestic violence that goes beneath the surface into the most hidden emotional and psychological motivations of both the victim and the abuser. Patty Wain Smith draws the reader in from the very beginning and makes you part of the story. Along with a Bible verse directly related to each section, there is a strong and urgent message provided to the reader, and a compelling end to each section that screams for you to turn the page and read more. A Letter to a Friend - The Story of Abuse in America is beautifully written and intentionally crafted as a short, powerful read that leaves you with a greater hope, faith, understanding, love, comfort, and protection.