THE ROAD TO AFTER by Rebekah Lowell

 

After years of physical and emotional abuse and being held like prisoners in their own home, a mother and her two young daughters leave for the safety of a women's and children's shelter. All Lacey has really known is the fear of her volatile father. She and her mother and little sister have learned how to negotiate his anger, but this has isolated them from any kind of normal.

On the day the police come and help them exit their home to a place of safety, Lacey is still afraid. The apartment provided at Caring Unlimited is nice and quiet, but there is still the anticipation that her father could appear and punish them for leaving. Being reunited with her grandparents is helpful, although her mother still insists on keeping the curtains closed and only reluctantly leaves the building.

As time passes, Lacey experiences the outside world. For six weeks they travel to Virginia so her mother can take art classes. The more Lacey sees of the rest of the world, the more confident she becomes. There are new friends, a garden, and visiting wonderful places. The time she thinks of as before fades until after begins to be the norm.

Author Rebekah Lowell calls on personal experience in an abusive relationship to create this inspiring story about a mother and her daughters who display courage and resilience as they start their new lives. Written in verse Lowell's talent with words and art shine through and create a brave and memorable tale.