Many of the misadventures in this book were based on the author's own life. She like many youngsters was the victim of bullying and abuse. Like this book's character, Carmalita Jones, the author could also be considered a masterpiece in the making. She didn't see herself that way though. For many years the young victim defined herself in reaction to the atrocities life thrown at her. She judged herself unmercifully as others judged her. She criticized herself as strongly as her peers criticized her. The more she was verbally abused by her classmates, the more the girl hated herself. She thought at one time that the only way to escape her perpetual pain was through suicide. The calloused, cruel words thrown at Jeanie daily bit chunks out of her heart. She remained mute in class, but punished herself in the confines of her home. When the emotional crucifixion became too much to endure, she'd disassociate herself and climb into the safe confines of her mind. This book depicts many of Carmalita Jean's adventures as she struggled to find herself. Many times she chose the difficult path along life's thoroughfare, often a direct or indirect result of her various abuses. Jeanie described in modest detail the multitude of pain she endured as well as the many obstacles she hurdled through. It's not for the squeamish. You'll become entrenched in her complex thoughts and her psychological struggles. You'll experience a young girl's fortitude to maintain her sanity. You'll engulf yourself in the beautiful, emotionally compelling love affairs which often ended in much pain. Though she endured many difficulties and trials, she was not plagued with an unforgiving, calloused heart. No, because it was through all of the trials and pain she found herself and she found God. Her heart was not made of stone, but of glass, easily damaged, easily broken. Relentless taunting nearly murdered her soul but God's grace found her and brought her home.