Sharon Charde Knihy

The #metoo movement, particularly the horrific Larry Nasser abuse, shows with frightening clarity the vulnerability of young women to male predators; all the Touchtone girls I encountered suffered similar or worse fates. The book is a pilgrimage, a quest story, divided into five sections. Part I explores the authors first year at the facility, the difficulty and eventual success of establishing my group in such a chaotic and contradictory culture. It recreates their writing sessions, and features the vivid, dramatic personalities of the girls who participated as well as the steep learning curve on which she found herself daily. Part II moves swiftly through the trials and victories between the first and last years, and offers brief profiles of three of the residents who held special resonance to the author. During this time she published an award-winning anthology of poems by the girls, a NYC filmmaker created a documentary film, many readings and public performances took place and received several awards for the program. Part III tells of the joint venture with The Hotchkiss School, revealing the differences yet common ground between the two groups of girls.

Exploring profound grief, a mother reflects on her son's decades-old loss while attempting to reconnect with her former self. Through music and memories, she reveals the struggle to reclaim her identity amid the roles of marriage and motherhood. The collection of poems delves into themes of sorrow, negotiation, and humor, showcasing a journey of self-discovery and emotional reckoning. Each piece is crafted with precise language, inviting readers to experience the complexities of love and loss in a deeply resonant manner.