Disaster Island: A Story of Hope Amid Bullying, Abuse, and PTSD

Bullies & Allies

by James F. Johnson

Kyle Rickett is a teen who lives a complicated life. More complicated than he or his family even realize. His moods go up and down. He appears happy and loved, but feels confused and lost half the time. He has friends and enemies. The problem is he can’t tell which is which. Who is on his side and who isn't? His rural American life appears to be perfect, in a safe community with unlocked doors. But behind his bright smile, Kyle has to face his demons alone; Unseen bullying, trauma and isolation. His bright smile and big heart attract friendly people, but also set him up as a target for bullying too complicated to understand. He can't ask for help because he can't figure out how.

As the truth about his past unfolds, Kyle comes to realize his trust in others has always been misplaced. Now he has no one left on his side.

His heavy secrets begin to explode into the real world when a bicycle crash gives his dad’s friend, Dr. Krieg, a chance alone with Kyle, exposing forgotten memories of abuse that become too difficult to hide from, and push him beyond his ability to comprehend. Was it real or a dream? Disillusioned and now afraid of everyone, he withdraws. His dysfunctional family’s help becomes his biggest problem. Despite their efforts, they can’t seem to stop Kyle from fading away and becoming quiet, isolated, unfocused, and finally suicidal. Are they losing him forever?

There is a person who can save him, one who needs a friend as bad as he does. But that person is two thousand miles away and a stranger. What kind of miracle would have to happen to bond these two isolated souls together before one of them is lost for good?

483 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 27, 2017

Reviews

[Lauren Lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story that is both heartbreaking and motivational. As a reader, there were so many times that I wanted to help the protagonist, Kyle. I kept hoping that someone would see his pain and reach out to him, yet so many people let him down. The book reminded me to pay attention to the people around me. The story also gets high marks for being told in a nonconventional way. The reader gets to see the author's perspective, Kyle's perspective, and the perspectives of his best friend and cousin. The reader also has the opportunity to follow the story of a young man, Tuck, whose life is about to collide with Kyle's. This is a book that I read way too late at night, but could not seem to put down! There can be hope when life hits bottom. I will be picking up James F. Johnson's next book, The Goat Driver: A Story of Trust That Bongs Friendships and Saves Lives (Bullies & Allies Book 2)!

[Toni Kief · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book at an indie author event. I was taken in by this book and story. Kyle was different, smaller, blonder, friendly, and outgoing. The perfect target. His feelings of aloneness and questions felt so familiar and yet he has resilience and strength. This is a tender and strong story and in the telling helps to enlighten and encourage for a change in our society.