Instead of presenting one or two book reviews, as we normally do, we present six books on healing from the effects of sexual abuse. We have in mind especially superiors, formators, counsellors and spiritual directors—persons who are in a privileged position to help survivors of sexual abuse. Healing is possible, but victims and survivors need help. Since the prevalence of sexual abuse in India is high, all of us (parents, priests, religious and counsellors) would do well to learn more about helping victims and survivors. (Editor)
1. Wendy Maltz. Sexual Healing Journey: A Guide for Survivors of Sexual Abuse (Third Edition). William Morrow Paperbacks, 2012. (Indian Price: Rs 799.00). Its three parts deal with: (1) Becoming aware; (2) Making the Changes; (3) Creating Positive Experiences.
2. Dan Allender. The Wounded Heart: Hope for Adult Victims of Childhood Sexual Abuse. 2008 (Rs 816.00). Writes with knowledge of Church settings.
3. Ellen Bass & Laura Davis. Beginning to Heal: A First Book for Men and Women Who Were Sexually Abused as Children. William Morrow Paperbacks, 2003. ($7.98). A simple book for those who are beginning the process of healing.
4. Beverly Engel. The Right to Innocence: Healing the Trauma of Childhood Sexual Abuse: A Therapeutic 7-Step Self-Help Program for Men and Women, Including How to Choose a Therapist and Find a Support Group. Ivy Books, 1990. (Rs 896.90). Another simple, short and introductory book written in non-technical language.
5. Karen A. Duncan. Healing from the Trauma of Childhood Sexual Abuse: The Journey for Women. Praeger, 2004 ($19.95). The author, a family therapist, presents the true stories of eighteen women survivors, and how healing occurs in stages.
6. William Lee Carter. It Happened to Me: A Teen’s Guide to Overcoming Sexual Abuse (workbook). New Harbinger Publications, 2002. ($22.93). A simple book written for teenagers and those who work with them.
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