Kathy gives voice and insight into the life of an abused and neglected child who is eventually placed in foster care. In Bars Dumps and Other Childhood Hangouts, the reader experiences firsthand what it is like to be such a child. The story explores the first ten years of Kathy’s life with her alcoholic parents who are drowning in poverty and their addictions. The journey continues through a children’s home and the foster care system in Lincoln, Nebraska. When a Mennonite couple from Milford, Nebraska follow God’s call in their life an unexpected miracle brings hope and healing to this sad situation.
Those who have experienced childhood trauma find similarities and a kindred spirit in Kathy’s story. Those who have not gain a deeper understanding of childhood poverty, abuse and neglect. This book helps teachers, foster parents, counselors, or anyone who works with children experiencing poverty, abuse or neglect gain a deeper compassion and empathy for these young people.
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Originally published in January 2013.
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Buy the book at Barnes & Noble, Walmart or Amazon.
Praise for Bars Dumps and Other Childhood Hangouts:
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"This is a great book to help foster parents understand where children are coming from. Lots of insight on how they may be feeling. What a strong person she is!"
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"A very honest look at a very rough childhood. A must read for all!"
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"Everyone involved in foster care should read this first-hand account. It illuminates what goes on inside a good kid handed a difficult life through no fault of her own. The profound change foster care parents can make in a child's life is also shown, but the book's greatest impact will be in regards to enabling understanding the things foster kids may not be able to say on their own behalf. A touching story that has the potential to change lives for the better."
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"Thank you to Katherine for writing a book that expresses so clearly the trauma of living in a household effected by alcoholism and poverty. This book is written with the voice of the child and the wisdom of the adult. It is a book that will be helpful for anyone who interacts with children and especially with children who might be living precariously. It's heart-changing."
