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Every 9 Minutes
A candid, sincere, straightforward, no-holds-barred story of a young woman’s journey growing up as the victim of child abuse and how she overcame it despite the odds. Shared firsthand from the voice of a 4-year-old child and progresses as she matures into adulthood.
Every 9 Minutes is an eye-opening memoir that delves into the depths of abuse and reveals how one woman learned to retake control of her life and emerge victorious.
The author will have you feeling her pain, laughing through her coming of age, and, most importantly, raising awareness of something far too many children have endured.
Despite dysfunctional relationships and the soul-crushing torment of sexual exploitation, Every 9 Minutes is a testament to the power of perseverance, showing how Christina emerged from her pain and trauma to build a life of purpose and happiness.
With an empowering call to action, she encourages other sufferers of childhood abuse to step forward and take control of their lives, channeling their pain into motivation and refusing to let their trauma define them.
Every 9 Minutes is an eye-opening memoir that delves into the depths of abuse and reveals how one woman learned to retake control of her life and emerge victorious.
The author will have you feeling her pain, laughing through her coming of age, and, most importantly, raising awareness of something far too many children have endured.
Despite dysfunctional relationships and the soul-crushing torment of sexual exploitation, Every 9 Minutes is a testament to the power of perseverance, showing how Christina emerged from her pain and trauma to build a life of purpose and happiness.
With an empowering call to action, she encourages other sufferers of childhood abuse to step forward and take control of their lives, channeling their pain into motivation and refusing to let their trauma define them.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2021
500 people are currently reading
5650 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
May 1, 2022
An absolute triumph and an important read. I can’t remember a time I’ve read such a raw and honest account of a person’s life than I have in this novel.
Christina has opened her heart and her life to the masses in a horrific but important account of her own personal past, and the monsters that she battled every day since the age of 4.
I voraciously read this book; I felt every emotion under the sun. I even cheered when her husband made an appearance at the end, and allowed her to be vulnerable and open and begin to heal.
This is such an incredible journey. I feel honored to be a little passenger.
Christina has opened her heart and her life to the masses in a horrific but important account of her own personal past, and the monsters that she battled every day since the age of 4.
I voraciously read this book; I felt every emotion under the sun. I even cheered when her husband made an appearance at the end, and allowed her to be vulnerable and open and begin to heal.
This is such an incredible journey. I feel honored to be a little passenger.
July 15, 2021
Heart reaching
They say every 9 seconds a child is abused. This pulls at your heart for the abused. People can be pure evil.
They say every 9 seconds a child is abused. This pulls at your heart for the abused. People can be pure evil.
June 30, 2024
How do I rate this?
I was terrified.
This book tells the authors childhood memories which is bad and equally disturbing.
Very important message passed through this but the reader also feels same trauma reading this.
So author conveys the message very effectively.
Reader who is not experienced this totally understands her pain which is caused by family member.
But what is the condition of person who gone through this.
Absolutely disturbing read.
And bravo.
I appreciate the author.not everyone is so brave.
I was terrified.
This book tells the authors childhood memories which is bad and equally disturbing.
Very important message passed through this but the reader also feels same trauma reading this.
So author conveys the message very effectively.
Reader who is not experienced this totally understands her pain which is caused by family member.
But what is the condition of person who gone through this.
Absolutely disturbing read.
And bravo.
I appreciate the author.not everyone is so brave.
June 10, 2021
As someone who went through trauma similar to this (not with family though), I can say it was both terrifying to read and also eye opening. Hearing multiple view points and hearing how to survive it all will hopefully help someone else. Though it was a hard read and I had to stop half way through, I can say more power to her for getting out of the situation.
May 21, 2022
Wow what am emotional read, could be triggering for others that have been in similar situations. Its heartbreaking to know this happens to so many children in the world we live in today. I found this to be a very well written book. I would recommend this book to others. I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
July 5, 2022
This chick ended up being just as toxic and unstable as her messed up family. I'm surprised she actually got married and stuck with the guy rather than using him or stringing him along like the others. Glad to see she didnt have kids. Yikes.
September 7, 2024
This is a sad read. I give this author so much credit for writing about a serious issue that effects more children than we as a society realize. I'm so glad she wrote about her experience to bring awareness to this issue.
September 20, 2024
This powerful memoir looks at the deep and lasting effects of child abuse and the difficult journey to healing. Christina shares her story honestly and inspiringly, highlighting the silent struggles many victims go through. Even in dark times, she offers hope, reminding us that healing—though often slow—is possible. Her bravery in sharing these personal experiences encourages others, showing that recovery can happen, no matter how long it takes. This book not only tells her story but also supports those seeking their own path to healing.
October 1, 2022
Upon starting this book, I didn’t know it was a true story. How absolutely heartbreaking. The things Christina had to endure from such an early age, is beyond belief. No wonder she struggled forming lasting relationships with men.
I’d love to know what became of Danny and some of the other vulgar characters in the book.
I’d love to know what became of Danny and some of the other vulgar characters in the book.
April 24, 2022
What a crazy life Christina leads and a happily ever after that’s well deserved after that horrible childhood good for you!
December 28, 2021
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway! Thank you! I'm amazed that the author found the courage to tell her story. It took me a week to finish the book because, at times, I didn't want to know what was going to happen next during her childhood. What a story!!!
October 11, 2021
This book was very well written and a great read. It was heartbreaking to read at times what Christina went through during her childhood and how it affected her up into adulthood. The courage and strength that Christina has is inspirational. I won this book in a goodreads giveaway in return for my honest opinion.
May 28, 2021
The #Metoo movement was a dam breaking year. Stories that had lay secret for years or decades finally saw the light of day. This is one such story. The author through a process of healing takes us back to when it all began and weaves a tale that many know far to well. Every 9 Minutes is a statistic of reported abuse but it is those cases that never see the light of day that is more frightening. Step into one woman's journey to find her place in the world. Not a book you can put down easily as what you read will stay with you. No two stories are ever the same but many patterns emerge. First is "Don't Tell Anyone".. Silence is their greatest weapon, the innocence lost is the price paid.
June 13, 2021
Thank you to Goodreads for an e-book arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is an Infuriating and raw portrayal of a young girls abuse at the hands of her family members. Chris tells the tale of how not just her offenders abused her but also how her non offending parent perpetuated the abuse by doing nothing to protect her.As much as one may wish she is elaborating the details, sadly this memoir hits home with too many other maddening tales of stolen innocence. Much bravery and courage has been shown in sharing this story!
This is an Infuriating and raw portrayal of a young girls abuse at the hands of her family members. Chris tells the tale of how not just her offenders abused her but also how her non offending parent perpetuated the abuse by doing nothing to protect her.As much as one may wish she is elaborating the details, sadly this memoir hits home with too many other maddening tales of stolen innocence. Much bravery and courage has been shown in sharing this story!
June 15, 2021
Wow is all I can say. I really liked it and felt myself feeling everything Christina was feeling. I didn't get the title of the book until the last few pages but it totally came together and made sense. Anyone who has survived any type of abuse/trauma should reas this book. It gave me a sense of compassion and even comfort at time to see how someone else had handled what they had been thru. Highly recommend!
June 19, 2021
Thank you to Bob John Chicken Federation, LLC , Christina Vitagliano and Good Reads for the book giveaway. In the cusp of the MeToo# movement comes this raw and honest memoir. It is breathtaking, heartbreaking but victorious. This is a must read for everyone.
November 24, 2022
Something that, thankfully, most of us will not have any personal experience of, the story of a child who is abused by her so-called guardian, her step-father in this instance, is highly and usually entertaining. For a subject so morbid, the story reveals more about Christina’s strength of character, and how her life progresses despite the terrible scenarios she lives with every day. I was truly hooked throughout! I deeply applaud Christina for telling her story, and getting it into the public air – a very brave, courageous and strong lady. Although not everyone’s ‘cup of tea’ because of the very nature of the tale, I have no problem recommending this book. (Yvonne Marrs Book Tour Reviewer)
Inspirational account that everyone should read, if not for the story of strength and perseverance over adversity, but for the decision to overcome and battle despite the odds. This is a crushing and heart-felt memoir that can only inspire the reader to evaluate their surroundings and see the beauty of their existence. That there is evil out there. Evil and cruelty that can be overcome. It even made me question my own inner strength and the superficial worries I often harbor. (Andrew Bell Book Tour Reviewer)
I was apprehensive about reading this book. I don’t often read memoirs in the first place, and knowing the dark subject matter that is involved in this nonfictional, personal account made me hesitant, especially knowing I’d be expected to write this review afterward. When I began to read, though, I was surprised to find myself completely drawn in, in the same way I’m drawn in by the writing of some of my favourite fiction novelists. Poignantly, it is not a work of fiction, but the skillfully written, subjective narration makes you feel what the author feels with every page. It is horrific, but it isn’t just horrific; it’s hopeful, clever, tragic, angry, and honest. It’s a testament to the author’s determination not to allow her abusers to define who she is as a person. (Tim Marshall Book Tour Reviewer)
A good, well written book which at times had me screaming at Christina to run as fast as she could away from her situation. I was invested in her story and I can understand why she did stick around, out of a fear of loneliness and lack of resources. Given the time the events occurred, there was also perhaps less help available. Although I would not normally read a book about sexual assault, I found this book engaging and thought provoking. (Eileen Tilley Book Tour Reviewer)
A subject that I would not normally choose to read, and I’ll admit I balked at it initially. Who wants to read about child abuse? However, I would stress that this book is so beautifully written that any reader worried about distressing detail should be reassured. All abuse is implied rather than graphically described. The journey takes us from the moment Christina’s life changed with the arrival of her new stepfather and three stepbrothers, to adulthood and her (hopefully) happy ending. I cannot stress enough the quality of the writing, and the high standard of the editing and production. This is a book that everyone should read, and I recommend it wholeheartedly. (Deb Barwick Book Tour Reviewer)
Every Nine Minutes is a story told directly from the heart. I must admit though, I found it hard going. It is a rather harrowing subject to begin with, then it seems to change tack and turn into a different book. I appreciate the courage to tell such a story, and the author seems to be a formidable woman. Many people will benefit from Christina Vitagliano’s honest openness though, and I’m glad I read to the end as I found the epilogue the best part. (Eleanor Dixon Book Tour Reviewer)
This is a true story of a woman who lays her soul bare to the world and shares the most intimate details of her trauma experienced to provide a message of hope and courage to those who have experienced or are currently experience abuse, in whatever form that takes shape. And for that I wholeheartedly admire the author for such a courageous account of her life growing up. Betrayed in the worst possible way by the people who claim to love her, Christina fights to hold onto her identity and not let the abuse define who she is and who she chooses to become. Her story is well written, and although a harrowing subject, she describes events in such a way that are not considered too graphic, more inferred, which makes anyone who has suffered similar abuse, find this a more tolerable read. And I would recommend it, because whilst a difficult subject it inspires hope, and gives strength and encouragement, an understanding that whilst you may never forget, or forgive, you can heal. (Kirsty McKay)
For anyone who has suffered or is currently suffering abuse in silence, my thoughts and prayers are with you and please note there is support out there. The Samaritans have been working with The Book Dragon following this Book Tour and we would encourage anyone who needs help to seek their support. Call 116123 or email jo@samaritans.org or visit their website: www.samaritans.org.
Overall we award 4.5 stars.
Inspirational account that everyone should read, if not for the story of strength and perseverance over adversity, but for the decision to overcome and battle despite the odds. This is a crushing and heart-felt memoir that can only inspire the reader to evaluate their surroundings and see the beauty of their existence. That there is evil out there. Evil and cruelty that can be overcome. It even made me question my own inner strength and the superficial worries I often harbor. (Andrew Bell Book Tour Reviewer)
I was apprehensive about reading this book. I don’t often read memoirs in the first place, and knowing the dark subject matter that is involved in this nonfictional, personal account made me hesitant, especially knowing I’d be expected to write this review afterward. When I began to read, though, I was surprised to find myself completely drawn in, in the same way I’m drawn in by the writing of some of my favourite fiction novelists. Poignantly, it is not a work of fiction, but the skillfully written, subjective narration makes you feel what the author feels with every page. It is horrific, but it isn’t just horrific; it’s hopeful, clever, tragic, angry, and honest. It’s a testament to the author’s determination not to allow her abusers to define who she is as a person. (Tim Marshall Book Tour Reviewer)
A good, well written book which at times had me screaming at Christina to run as fast as she could away from her situation. I was invested in her story and I can understand why she did stick around, out of a fear of loneliness and lack of resources. Given the time the events occurred, there was also perhaps less help available. Although I would not normally read a book about sexual assault, I found this book engaging and thought provoking. (Eileen Tilley Book Tour Reviewer)
A subject that I would not normally choose to read, and I’ll admit I balked at it initially. Who wants to read about child abuse? However, I would stress that this book is so beautifully written that any reader worried about distressing detail should be reassured. All abuse is implied rather than graphically described. The journey takes us from the moment Christina’s life changed with the arrival of her new stepfather and three stepbrothers, to adulthood and her (hopefully) happy ending. I cannot stress enough the quality of the writing, and the high standard of the editing and production. This is a book that everyone should read, and I recommend it wholeheartedly. (Deb Barwick Book Tour Reviewer)
Every Nine Minutes is a story told directly from the heart. I must admit though, I found it hard going. It is a rather harrowing subject to begin with, then it seems to change tack and turn into a different book. I appreciate the courage to tell such a story, and the author seems to be a formidable woman. Many people will benefit from Christina Vitagliano’s honest openness though, and I’m glad I read to the end as I found the epilogue the best part. (Eleanor Dixon Book Tour Reviewer)
This is a true story of a woman who lays her soul bare to the world and shares the most intimate details of her trauma experienced to provide a message of hope and courage to those who have experienced or are currently experience abuse, in whatever form that takes shape. And for that I wholeheartedly admire the author for such a courageous account of her life growing up. Betrayed in the worst possible way by the people who claim to love her, Christina fights to hold onto her identity and not let the abuse define who she is and who she chooses to become. Her story is well written, and although a harrowing subject, she describes events in such a way that are not considered too graphic, more inferred, which makes anyone who has suffered similar abuse, find this a more tolerable read. And I would recommend it, because whilst a difficult subject it inspires hope, and gives strength and encouragement, an understanding that whilst you may never forget, or forgive, you can heal. (Kirsty McKay)
For anyone who has suffered or is currently suffering abuse in silence, my thoughts and prayers are with you and please note there is support out there. The Samaritans have been working with The Book Dragon following this Book Tour and we would encourage anyone who needs help to seek their support. Call 116123 or email jo@samaritans.org or visit their website: www.samaritans.org.
Overall we award 4.5 stars.
December 30, 2022
A Gem of A Book -- And Human Being!
I have so many thoughts and feelings about this excellent but intense read I find myself a little flustered and not sure where to begin because I feel like I could write a few pages easily. But that's the writer and over-thinker in me I suspect!
I think partly why this book leaves me flustered is the subject matter. Child sexual abuse is such a devastating betrayal and though it is talked about much more in the media than it was when I was growing up, there are still many children suffering in silence. We have to continue looking for ways to change that and this book, this author adds one more voice to those of us daring to speak out against it.
It was a bit eerie reading this book as the author and I have some things in common. We both have Italian fathers who were not in our lives from a young age. Our dads both had a gambling problem -- and both remarried and ended up living in Vegas -- of all places! Both the author and I were frequently abused by our stepfathers and both of us have siblings. We also both worked a lot and found satisfaction in our jobs and friendships and kept diaries in our younger years.
If I had to list any dislikes in the book, there were two things that stand out for me personally. One being I don't like reading ANYONE taking the Lord's name in vain! Jesus is not a swear word and this should offend any person of faith. The other thing was the reference to Al going on disability and the author commented that the government was "paying him to exist."
As someone who is now disabled through no fault of my own, someone who HATED finally agreeing to apply for disability because work was such a major part of my identity and I loved working my two jobs, I found this highly offensive. I was not "paid to exist" and although I'm sure there are some that would accept that, I am not one of them! Even disabled I didn't just exist and watch life go by. I was productive to the extent of my abilities. I attended college for the first time and though only able to go part time, I earned 2 degrees in the social service field, several certifications and graduated summa cum laude. I also took my abuser to court.
This book is very well written, captivating and hard to put down!
I have so many thoughts and feelings about this excellent but intense read I find myself a little flustered and not sure where to begin because I feel like I could write a few pages easily. But that's the writer and over-thinker in me I suspect!
I think partly why this book leaves me flustered is the subject matter. Child sexual abuse is such a devastating betrayal and though it is talked about much more in the media than it was when I was growing up, there are still many children suffering in silence. We have to continue looking for ways to change that and this book, this author adds one more voice to those of us daring to speak out against it.
It was a bit eerie reading this book as the author and I have some things in common. We both have Italian fathers who were not in our lives from a young age. Our dads both had a gambling problem -- and both remarried and ended up living in Vegas -- of all places! Both the author and I were frequently abused by our stepfathers and both of us have siblings. We also both worked a lot and found satisfaction in our jobs and friendships and kept diaries in our younger years.
If I had to list any dislikes in the book, there were two things that stand out for me personally. One being I don't like reading ANYONE taking the Lord's name in vain! Jesus is not a swear word and this should offend any person of faith. The other thing was the reference to Al going on disability and the author commented that the government was "paying him to exist."
As someone who is now disabled through no fault of my own, someone who HATED finally agreeing to apply for disability because work was such a major part of my identity and I loved working my two jobs, I found this highly offensive. I was not "paid to exist" and although I'm sure there are some that would accept that, I am not one of them! Even disabled I didn't just exist and watch life go by. I was productive to the extent of my abilities. I attended college for the first time and though only able to go part time, I earned 2 degrees in the social service field, several certifications and graduated summa cum laude. I also took my abuser to court.
This book is very well written, captivating and hard to put down!
September 24, 2022
It's a hard fact to think about, that every 9 minutes there is a case of child abuse reported. But the hardest is, that there are even more that go unnoticed or unreported. And that there are always people, who, keeping a blind eye to that. I really wish I could preserve those children out there. But alas, it isn't possible. So, I can only hope these books about the topic raises awareness and maybe help to save some children.
So, I felt with Christina in some way. I can't say, that I really understand each reasoning or decision. But I understand where she is coming from. Doesn't change, that during the story there were many instances, where I wanted to tell her, that she should say something. Or that is the wrong decision. Well-knowing I can't change it. And even she couldn't do something about it, because she wasn't mentally there yet.
And when you are faced with trauma and all that, it isn't rare that you kind of self-sabotage your life. I know what I'm talking about. Because I have my own trauma. Though, the cause wasn't sexual abuse. But as I have realized lately, it doesn't matter what causes many traumas have, they often manifest in the same manner and even have similar effects on the lives of those, who are traumatized. I have self-sabotaged probably a lot myself, though it wasn't a conscious effort. I think the same goes for Christina. Though, she did pretty well, considering what she has experienced.
Furthermore, I really believe she hadn't met the right people, too. It makes a difference when you are able to talk freely and be yourself. And it typically gets better when you are able to face your trauma and the causes head-on. And work through it in some way. For her, it was her husband and the friends she had in the end. Even her working. And writing that book would have done a part of the healing too.
I have respect for all that. Because it's never an easy path. As we could read.
So, I felt with Christina in some way. I can't say, that I really understand each reasoning or decision. But I understand where she is coming from. Doesn't change, that during the story there were many instances, where I wanted to tell her, that she should say something. Or that is the wrong decision. Well-knowing I can't change it. And even she couldn't do something about it, because she wasn't mentally there yet.
And when you are faced with trauma and all that, it isn't rare that you kind of self-sabotage your life. I know what I'm talking about. Because I have my own trauma. Though, the cause wasn't sexual abuse. But as I have realized lately, it doesn't matter what causes many traumas have, they often manifest in the same manner and even have similar effects on the lives of those, who are traumatized. I have self-sabotaged probably a lot myself, though it wasn't a conscious effort. I think the same goes for Christina. Though, she did pretty well, considering what she has experienced.
Furthermore, I really believe she hadn't met the right people, too. It makes a difference when you are able to talk freely and be yourself. And it typically gets better when you are able to face your trauma and the causes head-on. And work through it in some way. For her, it was her husband and the friends she had in the end. Even her working. And writing that book would have done a part of the healing too.
I have respect for all that. Because it's never an easy path. As we could read.
April 3, 2024
Every 9 Minutes is a difficult book to read. It is a memoir, written by a victim of pedophilia, a woeful story that details abuse and renders understandable the reasons why the victim would choose not to reveal the horrible treatment she received. In the author's words, "A child abuse case is reported every nine minutes. But so many of us, for various reasons, walk the earth not reporting. Humans capable of acts like that shouldn’t exist, but they do. I learned at a very young age that life can be terribly unfair." It's also, unfortunately, a fate which the author will never escape. "Life has taught me and vividly shown me that childhood sexual abuse, no matter how badly we feel the need to hide it, will brand you like a scarlet letter."
The story begins with a 4-year-old Christina being coached in "practicing answers" about her new stepfather, although, as the days, weeks and months go by, he "is there (at her bedside) almost every night," gratifying himself at Christina's expense. Mom, ignorant (probably intentionally) of these behaviors, wanted to be positive about her new husband; the previous daddy was to be "no longer talked about." He was no longer around because he "doesn't like girls." Christina suffers the "sex talk," with her stepfather's participation, experiences her stepfather's enlistment of his oldest son to join him in her sexual abuse, and is forced to watch "Something About Amelia", a sexual abuse movie, in his presence. As I mentioned, it's a difficult book. Having received the gift of a volume, Christina starts a diary, only to have it taken from her room by her stepfather after a house fire. The worst part of this, I suppose, is that Christina will never really escape the terrible treatment that she endured.
I frankly can't imagine ever forgetting this book.
The story begins with a 4-year-old Christina being coached in "practicing answers" about her new stepfather, although, as the days, weeks and months go by, he "is there (at her bedside) almost every night," gratifying himself at Christina's expense. Mom, ignorant (probably intentionally) of these behaviors, wanted to be positive about her new husband; the previous daddy was to be "no longer talked about." He was no longer around because he "doesn't like girls." Christina suffers the "sex talk," with her stepfather's participation, experiences her stepfather's enlistment of his oldest son to join him in her sexual abuse, and is forced to watch "Something About Amelia", a sexual abuse movie, in his presence. As I mentioned, it's a difficult book. Having received the gift of a volume, Christina starts a diary, only to have it taken from her room by her stepfather after a house fire. The worst part of this, I suppose, is that Christina will never really escape the terrible treatment that she endured.
I frankly can't imagine ever forgetting this book.
December 3, 2021
In the memoir of Christina Vitagliano, Rachel said: " you'll grow up tough and ready for anything in this world." In my humble opinion, i think this is the most important. wording in this sad and true recollection. AS a reader, I always like reading books that talk about real stories, and that can teach us how to tackle life and our personal difficulties. Each one of us have their owns problems; however, reading about other people’s experiences make us strong and insightful. In this book, Christina shares in simple words her story with us, saying that life isn't always good to us, but we must fight to overcome anything that can cause us bad and sad vibes. Honestly, I can't summarize the book in just few words because it is a life’s journey that makes Christina a strong woman and a good writer. In this book, you will learn how to be strong because life hasn't always dealt you the best hand. I recommend «Every 9 Minutes» for everyone who loves this kind of books. I would sincerely love to have a hard copy of this book, which has greatly affected me and reminded me of the novel «Don't Tell My Mother» by Anna Maguire, based on her true story. I recommended this book to everyone for it opens their eyes about many things. Thank you Christina for opening your heart to us and talking with courage about the battle you faced in your sad past, until you have become who you are now.
Thank you again dear Christina 🤍
Sara Slim.
Thank you again dear Christina 🤍
Sara Slim.
June 19, 2022
Cringe.Murderous ideations. Escaping Hell...and What else?
Christina does an excellent job of portraying how she internalized her mother's need for "happiness", at 4 years old. The family's lack of exposure to outside information kept Christina bound to her original choice to "pretend", "keep the secret" & separate her traumatized, incredulous, "begging- for-resue" self from the "free self" who was away from the abuse.
I so wanted to scream FOR her... at times, reading her story, I found myself internally gritting my teeth and screaming "Mom, help me now!! SAY IT!!!JUST SAY IT!!! She has inspired me to get my kids alone, individually and just ask them, "hey, is anyone we know hurting you? If so, here's what I can do...."and trust, but verify. Her grandma ALMOST had the concept, but didn't take it far enough to make the space safe enough for Chris to tell her the truth.... this was the only thing missing from this book. Christina, how can clueless parents/teachers do better? How could "we" have made it safer and possible for you to tell SOONER, and partner in your rescue sooner??? What SHOULD'VE happened for you to escape that?? God forbid someone have an idea and not be able to execute STOPPING THAT insanity. Thank you for bravely sharing your story and resiliency with us.
Christina does an excellent job of portraying how she internalized her mother's need for "happiness", at 4 years old. The family's lack of exposure to outside information kept Christina bound to her original choice to "pretend", "keep the secret" & separate her traumatized, incredulous, "begging- for-resue" self from the "free self" who was away from the abuse.
I so wanted to scream FOR her... at times, reading her story, I found myself internally gritting my teeth and screaming "Mom, help me now!! SAY IT!!!JUST SAY IT!!! She has inspired me to get my kids alone, individually and just ask them, "hey, is anyone we know hurting you? If so, here's what I can do...."and trust, but verify. Her grandma ALMOST had the concept, but didn't take it far enough to make the space safe enough for Chris to tell her the truth.... this was the only thing missing from this book. Christina, how can clueless parents/teachers do better? How could "we" have made it safer and possible for you to tell SOONER, and partner in your rescue sooner??? What SHOULD'VE happened for you to escape that?? God forbid someone have an idea and not be able to execute STOPPING THAT insanity. Thank you for bravely sharing your story and resiliency with us.
May 22, 2024
Reading this book was very triggering. First I'd like to commend the writer's style, every 9 minutes was a journey and a tough ride and I felt myself growing with Christina., from reading the story from a 4 year old's point of view to a full blown adult, Every 9 Minutes tells the story of abuse and how it shapes a person's life. It's one thing to have the courage to share the story, it's another thing to be able to understand how that incident painfully shaped the victim's life. No child deserves to got though the emotional torture that Christina went through. I felt every emotion from understanding the victim to empathy and sympathy followed by anger, if not at anyone but Christina's mum. The painful part of abuse is the loneliness and abandonment that one feels. Nobody, no matter how sweet and promising the relationship or friendship may be can fill that void and that's why Christina struggled. I totally understand the need to find her place in this world and choosing work over every other thing. It was also beautiful to see that Christina found the courage to choose herself and love herself while getting the freedom she totally deserves. This was definitely a good read even though it was a lot to take in, I enjoyed every piece of it.
July 22, 2024
Every 9 minutes took me on a journey and one filled with emotional rollercoasters. I felt anger, sorrow and pity for the author.
In these pages, I saw through the eyes of someone who'd been abused and how she'd navigated through the uncertainties of life.
Being abused as a child is bad, but being abused by a supposed parent is worse and it's painful to know that every 9 minutes, a child is being sexually abused out there.
As I read, I wondered why the author never spoke up until after her father died. Why she had to let it eat her through without talking to someone about it.
What I didn't like was the fact that hearts also got broken but then, thinking about it, I realized that how we treat people is just a reflection of who we are inside and we shouldn't walk into love except we're completely healed from whatever hurts we're carrying.
There were times I wished she'd have ended up with Luke but then, this is life and not just some crazy romance tale with a happily ever after.
I liked how the author found courage to tell her story and I really hope she has found the strength to heal.
I enjoyed the book and read it in a few sittings.
In these pages, I saw through the eyes of someone who'd been abused and how she'd navigated through the uncertainties of life.
Being abused as a child is bad, but being abused by a supposed parent is worse and it's painful to know that every 9 minutes, a child is being sexually abused out there.
As I read, I wondered why the author never spoke up until after her father died. Why she had to let it eat her through without talking to someone about it.
What I didn't like was the fact that hearts also got broken but then, thinking about it, I realized that how we treat people is just a reflection of who we are inside and we shouldn't walk into love except we're completely healed from whatever hurts we're carrying.
There were times I wished she'd have ended up with Luke but then, this is life and not just some crazy romance tale with a happily ever after.
I liked how the author found courage to tell her story and I really hope she has found the strength to heal.
I enjoyed the book and read it in a few sittings.
September 7, 2024
Every 9 minutes, a child abuse case is reported. That is a lot! But one would still have to think about the many more that never get reported.
This book was an eye opener to the intricacies of the lives of children who get sexually abused. I had put off reading it for a while because life got in the way but I absolutely do not regret reading it now.
Christina did such an amazing job telling her story, spanning across thirty years, that I felt every single emotion, grew up with her and learnt some of the lessons with her.
I found myself so angry at her stepfather amd stepbrother that at some points, I had to put down the book and come back to it later.
This book might not be an easy read because of it's heavy themes but it is totally worth it. It's very sad to see how many victims of childhood sexual abuse suffer in silence and how those who even speak up are hardly ever believed. It took the author thirty years to find her feet and somewhat heal. It helps to show a glimmer of hope that other victims can also heal and make their ways on life.
Thank you Christina, for sharing your story. Thank you to Booktasters for the opportunity to read this book.
This book was an eye opener to the intricacies of the lives of children who get sexually abused. I had put off reading it for a while because life got in the way but I absolutely do not regret reading it now.
Christina did such an amazing job telling her story, spanning across thirty years, that I felt every single emotion, grew up with her and learnt some of the lessons with her.
I found myself so angry at her stepfather amd stepbrother that at some points, I had to put down the book and come back to it later.
This book might not be an easy read because of it's heavy themes but it is totally worth it. It's very sad to see how many victims of childhood sexual abuse suffer in silence and how those who even speak up are hardly ever believed. It took the author thirty years to find her feet and somewhat heal. It helps to show a glimmer of hope that other victims can also heal and make their ways on life.
Thank you Christina, for sharing your story. Thank you to Booktasters for the opportunity to read this book.
May 29, 2021
Thank you Booktasters for sharing such amazing books and spreading the knowledge for many.
This book is an eye-opening story about child abuse, every 9 minutes there is a case of child abuse. To this day people still get away with abusing children, which is a very sad truth. Kids fear things, when a kid does not have the care they should get, they don't have that favorite human caring soul that most of the time is a mother or a parent in general, they are really lost and prone to abuse on multiple levels.
We need to protect children, this is society's responsibility.
I appreciate the memoir so much, it is a very easy smooth well-told one. The writing style is really amazing, the way the author shared her story starting from the beginning and taking us through her journey of healing and sharing emotions and everything is really courageous and heart-melting.
This book might contain things that might be triggering for unhealed post-abuse traumatized readers.
All in all, thank you so much for the amazing book.
This book is an eye-opening story about child abuse, every 9 minutes there is a case of child abuse. To this day people still get away with abusing children, which is a very sad truth. Kids fear things, when a kid does not have the care they should get, they don't have that favorite human caring soul that most of the time is a mother or a parent in general, they are really lost and prone to abuse on multiple levels.
We need to protect children, this is society's responsibility.
I appreciate the memoir so much, it is a very easy smooth well-told one. The writing style is really amazing, the way the author shared her story starting from the beginning and taking us through her journey of healing and sharing emotions and everything is really courageous and heart-melting.
This book might contain things that might be triggering for unhealed post-abuse traumatized readers.
All in all, thank you so much for the amazing book.
Read
September 27, 2024I was given a free copy by the author and @booktasters in return for an honest review.
But how do you review such a poignant telling of a person’s life?
I love memoirs. I love stories where people succeed and grow emotionally and overcome every bad thing that life throws at them. I love to see humans succeed.
Success may mean something different for everybody, but I love to see people find their voice, become strong individuals and standing up for themselves!
This is a memoir that starts out with the voice of a four-year old little girl who needs to sacrifice herself to please her mother. Life throws a lot at her, she makes mistakes and she is human, but she learns how to be her own hero.
This is not just about sexual abuse. This is also about emotional abuse. Such a looked-over form of abuse in many cases causing so much childhood trauma.
Thank you, Christina, for sharing a very important story with us. Thank you for your courage to overcome all and for sharing the journey with your readers.
September 15, 2024
I was given this book, so I am committed to writing a review. Sometimes, the books you should read are the ones that make you uncomfortable and make you think about others. I would recommend this book to anyone. I would especially recommend the book to anyone who works in conjunction with child protective services. I guess I have lived a sheltered life because I learned more than I wanted about the dysfunction that allows sexual abuse to persist so unchecked in some families. I was shocked and felt traumatized just from reading the accounts of the acts committed on the author as a child. It has taken me a while to get back to writing the review because the book is very disturbing. Although the story/book is disturbing, it is a story that NEEDS told, and needs to be heard by a large audience. Read, listen and learn! The child being sexually abused could be in your own family or mine. Now I wonder, would I see the signs? Are you sure you would see the signs?
November 13, 2021
This is just an incredible book. It is the true story of the author’s life and the betrayal and crimes committed by her step-father and her mother’s crime of ignoring and failing to protect her child. It was heartbreaking and sad to read and yet at the same time, it was so well written with an important message. Child sexual abuse leaves permanent scars on a child’s mind and body and it doesn’t go away when that child grows up. If you haven’t experienced it you can’t imagine. Parents need to be aware of risks and warning signs and protect their children.
I commend the author for not only surviving but thriving and for emerging as a successful adult who now has a loving long term relationship. That is not as easy as you might think.
The book is well written and edited and is well worth reading. Such a powerful story.
I commend the author for not only surviving but thriving and for emerging as a successful adult who now has a loving long term relationship. That is not as easy as you might think.
The book is well written and edited and is well worth reading. Such a powerful story.
July 2, 2022
Inspiring
From the moment I read the title and saw the illustration of the little girl with pigtails, I knew right away that I just had to read this book. It was like a reflection of myself as someone who also experienced child sexual abuse. A lot of what Christina experienced is very similar to what I did too when I was growing up and suffering in silence. I am now 28 years old and am still healing from my trauma. This book has inspired me to keep doing what I am doing to raise awareness on issues that matter and are often overlooked. I am a student journalist and have always loved reading and writing. I'm so happy that Christina was able to accomplish so much, and I know that I can too.
Please read this book, it is amazing. Of course, it is very heart wrenching at points, but like everything in life, if you keep going you will soon reach clarity.
From the moment I read the title and saw the illustration of the little girl with pigtails, I knew right away that I just had to read this book. It was like a reflection of myself as someone who also experienced child sexual abuse. A lot of what Christina experienced is very similar to what I did too when I was growing up and suffering in silence. I am now 28 years old and am still healing from my trauma. This book has inspired me to keep doing what I am doing to raise awareness on issues that matter and are often overlooked. I am a student journalist and have always loved reading and writing. I'm so happy that Christina was able to accomplish so much, and I know that I can too.
Please read this book, it is amazing. Of course, it is very heart wrenching at points, but like everything in life, if you keep going you will soon reach clarity.
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