Have you ever read a book by Torey Hayden? If you have a child with special needs, work with special needs kids, or have an interest in emotionally troubled children, you will love her books. And even if the above doesn’t apply to you, you will still love her books.
Each novel she writes is the TRUE account of her work with, in most cases, a particular child with a serious emotional disturbance.
One Child
One Child is the story of a young girl, Sheila, with severe behavioral problems. Sheila gouges the eyes out of goldfish, destroys property, and causes serious disruptions in the classroom. She is filthy and smells terrible. The school district puts Sheila in Torey’s class because they don’t know what else to do with her. Torey shares her remarkable story of how she uncovers this girl’s horrifically abusive past, which includes sexual abuse by a relative, and a mother who abandoned her on the side of a road. With patience, understanding, and tough-love, Torey is able to transform Sheila into a cheerful girl eager to learn.
Other Books by Torey Hayden Include:
Murphy’s Boy – A fifteen-year-old boy who refuses to speak cowers under tables in fear. Torey must figure out what is at the root of this boy’s severe emotional disturbance.
Ghost Girl – A new student arrives in Torey’s classroom stooped over, as though her spine were deformed, but in reality she has no handicap. She refuses to say a word to anyone. Torey is able to miraculously get her to speak, and discovers the haunting reasons for her strange behavior.
Somebody Else’s Kids – A handful of kids that nobody else wants are placed in Torey’s classroom. Each child has his/her own unique problems, including autism, hyperactivity, childhood pregnancy, and other behavioral disorders. A curious group, but they make a lasting impression on Torey’s heart, and she on theirs.
And many more!!!
Once I discovered Torey Hayden’s books, I had to buy them all. For me, they are completely engrossing. It’s absolutely fascinating to be the silent observer as Torey unlocks the mysteries of these troubled children. The books will make you laugh, cry, give you hope, and will make you appreciate those incredible people who work with special-needs children. I’ve even read a few of her books more than once. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Check out Torey Hayden’s website, which has her bio, and more details on her books (including follow-ups on some of her special students). Happy reading!