My Imaginary Friend

The book, My Imaginary Friend, tells the story of a seven-year-old girl by the name of Kathann. Kathann is an innocent child with a wonderful and creative imagination. Her creativity helps her face the terrible secret that she is a victim of sexual abuse. Through Kathann’s imagination, she meets Becky, a young girl who encourages her to confront the secret and face her fears of sharing the secret with an adult.

Told from a child’s perspective, the story is a wonderful tool to help children gain the courage to speak out when they find themselves molested or abused by an adult. In a supportive and gentle dialogue, the authors raise important issues of trust and fears about the results of telling. The well-crafted illustrations that accompany the story will help children follow Kathann’s journey of taking the first step toward survival and healing.

Kathann is a young girl faced with dealing with the terrible secret of being a victim of molestation. Through the eyes and imagination of Kathann, children who are victims of abuse will learn from Kathann’s experience that they have the ability to conquer their pain and fears and take that crucial step of telling an adult.

Unfortunately, there are many child predators in society. With a comfortable and easy to read story of strength and encouragement, My Imaginary Friend not only benefits children who are victims of abuse, but will also help other children speak out if something bad happens to them. My Imaginary Friend teaches children that they have the strength to tell an adult when someone hurts them. It is also a wonderful way for parents to discuss the topic with their children without scaring them. The book would be a great addition to libraries.

Tracy Roberts, Write Field Services

Authors: Shirley Ann Povondra and Kathryn Andrew
Paperback: 44 pages
Publisher: Llumina Kids (January 31, 2007)
ISBN-10: 1595266690
ISBN-13: 978-1595266699
Available: Amazon.com and BN.com