Don't Hurt Laurie

Rating:
Summary: She is not alone
Review: What a wonderful book to show children suffering from abuse that they aren't alone. 11 year old Laurie lives with her abusive mother, Annabelle, who makes Laurie feel as if she has to make excuses and lie for all of her 'accidents' in which her mother causes. Laurie endures more abuse than she can handle, but finds solace in a dog she 'adopts.' She hides this dog and cares for it, as it provides one of her only sources of safty and happiness. When Annabelle attacks the dog, things change.

This book should be in every school library, and every media specialist should be familiar with it. A child who is going through what Laurie goes through might be more inclined to talk knowing that they are not alone.