Scars

Scars
By Cheryl Rainfield
2010
233 pages

Summary: Kendra hasn’t felt safe since she started remembering gruesome images of her childhood sexual abuse. While she cannot bring herself to remember her attacker, she knows she’s getting closer. Unfortunately, she thinks HE knows too, because she thinks someone is following her. Not sure who she can trust, Kendra seeks comfort in Meghan, a girl from school with her own troubled past. Together they try to piece together the missing pieces, before Kendra runs out of time.

Review: Scars is a compelling and emotional read. While the writing was not as smoothly executed as some other books on the topic that I’ve read, there was a lot to make this novel stand out. Through Kendra’s memories the reader is slowly introduced to the abuse without having to read about it first hand. This allows for some distance between the reader and the protagonist, which can be incredibly helpful for some reading this type of novel. Further, the memories in some ways separated Kendra from the abuse, making the story not just about her as a victim, but also about her as an individual (a friend, a girlfriend, an artist, a cutter, a student, etc.). I thought elements such as the art therapy and the relationship with Meghan were well done and created depth to this novel. Those who enjoy issue fiction or who are looking for a window/mirror will definitely find something to like.

Also by Cheryl Rainfield: The Last Dragon

If you liked Scars, you might also enjoy: Such a Pretty Girl by Laura Wiess, Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott, Willow by Julia Joban

Additional Info:
Secret Shame website on self injury: http://selfharm.net/
Recover Your Life: Support and Community for those who self harm: http://www.recoveryourlife.com/
Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans Youthline: http://www.youthline.ca/

Here is a link to sexual assault centres in Southwestern Ontario. Please find one in your area if you need assistance.

Author website: http://www.cherylrainfield.com/

Rating: W2.5/4 C3/4 P3/4 O2.5/4 PP2.5 (issue fiction isn’t for everyone) CR4/4
Grade Level Interest: JS (some mature elements, but topic is very relevant to a younger audience. Easy to read, which also makes is accessible to a younger audience)