"Spectacular . . . Remarkable . . . Powerful . . . Compelling . . . Unique . . . Provocative."
A BASEBALL BOOK UNLIKE ANY OTHER
In "Ghosts of October: Reflections on Life, Death and Baseball," Kevin Thomas Mulhearn, a leading New York attorney for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, showcases the remarkable healing and redemptive powers of baseball.
Mulhearn's riveting family narrative focuses on the star-crossed life and untimely death of his beloved twin brother and the ensuing evolution of his relationship with his old school New York City police officer father. He also provides a rare and candid inside look at several of his uphill battles to obtain justice for dozens of childhood sex abuse survivors who were betrayed by esteemed schools (such as Poly Prep and Yeshiva University) that were charged with their education and protection. Underlying all of these themes is the omnipresent game of baseball, which provides Mulhearn with a much-needed anchor to hold onto through both triumphs and tragedies.
In this unflinching memoir, Kevin Mulhearn challenges the reader to rethink his or her basic assumptions about life and death, love and loss, law and justice, and various aspects of the game of baseball.
Praise for "Ghosts of October"
"An inspiring story of a family's tragedies, celebrations, compassion, and love for each other--through the reflective lens of baseball. Kevin Mulhearn's vivid descriptions of schoolyard fights and baseball games . . . call to mind the language and style of my late colleague, Red Smith." --Alex Yannis, New York Times Sportswriter
" Mulhearn's] story and his work is a testimony to the idea that that when we make the choice to fight for the truth and to fight for healing and justice for others, it can make a difference in ways that we often can't predict. His skill at blending his family narrative with his legal battles and overlaying it all with the metaphors and lessons of baseball is nothing short of spectacular." --Christopher M. Anderson, Executive Director, MaleSurvivor
"As an attorney for sexual abuse survivors, Kevin Mulhearn has been an indefatigable warrior for justice. As an author, Kevin demonstrates the same level of honesty and courage. Kevin has never been afraid to ask tough questions or take on big institutions, and that's what makes his life and work--as well as this unique memoir--compelling." --Michael O'Keeffe, New York Daily News
"The lessons Kevin Mulhearn learned on Brooklyn's sandlots playing for one of New York City's finest baseball clubs served him well in the years that followed. Somehow he managed to turn grief over his twin brother's death into a legal crusade that brought a measure of peace to victims of sexual abuse committed by a beloved coach at one of the city's top prep schools ... Mulhearn has turned in a powerful memoir of love, family, grief, recovery, and the enduring powers of baseball. --Thomas Zambito, The Journal News" A]n inspiring story from a bold and unflinching man whose creative and relentless advocacy for those who've been deeply betrayed will leave you outraged yet hopeful." --David G. Clohessy, Director, Survivors Network of Those Abused By Priests
"This is a remarkable book." --Paul Mones, Esq., Children's Rights Attorney
"In this book, Kevin Mulhearn speaks eloquently about the terrible plight of those he describes as 'lost boys' and about the need to get justice for the terrible crimes against them." --Hon. Margaret A. Markey, New York State Assemblywoman