Robin D. Stone

Library Journal Reviews
No Secrets, No Lies: How Black Families Can Heal from Sexual Abuse
April 15, 2004
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Stone, Robin D. . Broadway. 2004. c.256p. bibliog. index. ISBN 0-7679-1344-2. $23.95. PSYCH

A victim of sexual abuse as a child, Stone opens a dialog on dealing with this problem in the context of African American culture, traditions, and families. Two years ago, Stone wrote an article on child sexual abuse for Essence magazine - of which she was then executive editor - and received such a strong response that she wrote this book. Drawing on her own experience as well as the expertise of psychologists, social workers, and spiritual leaders, she offers a number of avenues to dispel taboos in the black community, including fear of betraying family and fear of authority figures. Interwoven throughout are the powerful stories of several victims and even those of their abusers. In addition to chapters on helping victims identify their abuse and break the silence in order to heal and move on, Stone devotes two chapters to assisting male victims of abuse and to challenging abusers. Aimed at an African American audience - including abuse survivors, parents who want to protect their children, counselors, families, and friends - this competent treatment is recommended for public libraries as a solid addition to the relatively scant literature.

- Kay Brodie, Chesapeake Coll., Wye Mills, MD