Secrets That Hurt: Painful Secrets Should Always Be Told

By Laura L. Kerlin and Julia Seal

Ellen is a happy little girl who loves play with her best friend, Jane. But one day, Ellen starts to feel uncomfortable. She feels as if she isn’t herself anymore.
Ellen’s mom is worried. She asks Ellen if anything is troubling her. But Ellen knows certain things are supposed to be private, and she is embarrassed. Jane knows just what to do. Ellen receives the help she needs from an unlikely furry friend.
A picture book for children, Secrets That Hurt calls attention to child sexual abuse. According to CDC statistics, one of four girls and one of every six boys are sexually abused before they reach the age of eighteen. Children’s lives can be turned to darkness when they’re holding onto the shame associated with traumatic incidents. This story follows Ellen as she struggles to keep the secret and tells how a special animal plays a crucial role in her healing process.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Archway Publishing
• Release date: Feb 26, 2020
• ISBN: 9781480887275

Laura L. Kerlin

Laura L. Kerlin earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and journalism from George Mason University. Passionate about battling abuse, she is active in a child advocacy in Northern Virginia and her family serves on the board of SafeSpot, a child advocacy center in Fairfax County, Virginia. Laura is also a dedicated mother to a seven-year-old daughter who also supports the center and wants to one day help rescue animals and help with children.

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