Heimbecker's mother died quietly, alone, and she was not happy the last time they sat together, listening to Italian opera. He swore that day he would not die in suffering from issues of religious doctrine or an acquiescent conscience. This memoir began at that moment. The stories you will read here bear witness to three generations of a uniquely American family and the fierce loneliness that came with growing up as preacher's kids in the 1950s and 1960s. This is a celebration of loyalty and laughter, of revolt and courage, of scores settled and families that endure. Mostly, The Youngest Witness is a tribute to the liberation of spirit-at whatever cost.