Rating: 
Summary: STRAWBERRY FIELD
Review: This novel is absolutely compelling, and when I started, I could not put it down until finished. It chronicles the thoughts of a family court judge faced with the awesome responsibility of the placement in three child custody disputes. But that is only the first chapter. The judge then flashes back on the lives of her own parents and then of her own life from age four to fifteen. Hers was a life of a total lack of family stability, of abandonment, of neglect, and of sexual abuse. Guided by her faith, the love of an older sister, and some adult interventions, this little girl copes with, finally escapes from, and rises above her horrific childhood. Flashing forward to her judicial duties, she then knows the decisions she must make. I truly feel that this book will be an inspiration and a beacon to child care workers, educators, foster parents, and victims of sexual abuse. It is MUST reading.
Rating:
Summary: what was she waiting for?
Review: With her debut novel, Susan Borges brings us center-stage to the trials of young Carolyn. Before experiencing 'Strawberry Field', you may be of the opinion that impeccable breeding, privilege or guidance are necessary for prosperity; you may have believed that youth with such advantages over their contemporaries have a better chance of success. After reading this book, I predict that you will look deeper into the eyes of every young girl you encounter. And deeper still into the faces of accomplished adults around you . . . what have they prevailed through? This is the story of the human spirit seeking light where darkness is most evident, and insisting that this life is one of possibility & promise. It will forever change your ideas about hardship, persistence, and the power of determination. Recommended read!
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