Willow Book Review

"Willow" by Julia Hoban, tells the story of a teenage girl who was driving the car that wrecked and killed both of her parents. Willow resorts to "cutting" or self mutilation as a way to deal or actually not deal with the death of her parents.

"Willow" is a fictional story, but tells the story of what many "cutters" experience and feel. This book is written based on Willow's point of view and brings to light her thoughts and emotions.

For an average person it is very difficult to imagine what could bring someone to "cut." We tend to forget that most if not all "cutters" have experienced some type of trauma during their lives that may have affected the way they perceive things. Things that seem like common sense to you and I seem completely different to someone like Willow.

As most of you may know I am a registered nurse at a Children's Psychiatric Hospital. I have worked with many people who are experiencing the same type of things as Willow is. I am really glad that I have had the opportunity to review "Willow" as it has given me a new perspective on many of my patients.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who has a friend, family member, or other loved one that has experienced any type of trauma. Please remember that trauma can come in many shapes and sizes and will not always be obvious to the observer. Most people whether they know it or not know someone who has been traumatized in some way. This book may make you rethink your approach to the situation and give you different ideas on how your actions maybe interpreted by you loved one.

I think that "Willow" is a must read for anyone working with children and/or young adults. Sometimes when we work with people everyday we can miss some pretty significant changes or misunderstand their actions. Reading "Willow" may give you the added perspective you need to help someone you work with!

You can buy Willow here

(I did receive a copy of "Willow" for review purposes. No other compensation was received. This review is based solely on my opinion and was not affected in any way be the publisher or author)