Review: Scars by Cheryl Rainfield

Title: Scars
Author: Cheryl Rainfield
Publisher: Westside Books
Published: March 2010

Summary: Kendra, fifteen, hasn't felt safe since she began to recall devastating memories of childhood sexual abuse, especially because she still can't remember the most important detail-- her abuser's identity. Frightened, Kendra believes someone is always watching and following her, leaving menacing messages only she understands. If she lets her guard down even for a minute, it could cost Kendra her life. To relieve the pressure, Kendra cuts; aside from her brilliantly expressive artwork, it's her only way of coping. Since her own mother is too self-absorbed to hear her cries for help, Kendra finds support in others instead: from her therapist and her art teacher, from Sandy, the close family friend who encourages her artwork, and from Meghan, the classmate who's becoming a friend and maybe more. But the truth about Kendra's abuse is just waiting to explode, with startling unforeseen consequences. Scars is the unforgettable story of one girl's frightening path to the truth. 

Review: Scars is about a young girl named Kendra who has grown up with sexual abuse; her mind blocked out most of these memories including the guy who sexually abused her frequently- and now it's time that she tries to remember these events in hopes that she will know who abused her. The author Cheryl Rainfield takes us on a path where most people do not want to go- rape isn't always an open topic discussion. Its something that is "hush hush" but NEEDS to be talked about more often, especially in school settings and with younger girls.

As someone who has their psychology degree, I am always particular fond of books like these- ones that are fiction but talk about real life problems. The world isn't always a fantasy; its tough out there!! The main character, Kendra has therapy sessions and I enjoyed these scenes. I liked reading about how her therapist talks to her, and encourages her to try and recollect the past.


Amongst the biggest topic- rape and sexual abuse, Scars is a book that also brings up homosexuality. This was the first gay/lesbian book that I've read and I was very impressed with the messages that were coming through. Scars may be about a young girl who is a lesbian who was raped for many years but this is only a small portion to the storyline... there is much to this book that can't be explained because its all in a persons thoughts and feelings. There were times where I cried, laughed, and even rolled my eyes at some of the things Kendra's parents said. With the emotions there are many twists and turns in the plot that will have any reader flipping through the pages reading as fast as they can; I know I did!!


Highly recommend Scars!! Its not always the easiest to read (with the topics and emotions coming through) but its true and real and its a book that needs to get out there for young women to read!