

Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Parenting Press; Revised edition (January 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1884734650
ISBN-13: 978-1884734656
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.1 x 8.5 inches
Shipping Weight: 1.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #333,833 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #78 in Books > Children's Books > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Difficult Discussions > Dysfunctional Relationships #146 in Books > Children's Books > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Difficult Discussions > Abuse #968 in Books > Children's Books > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Family Life > Parents
Age Range: 3 - 8 years
Grade Level: 1 - 3

"Something Is Wrong at My House: A Book About Parents' Fighting" is a book especially written for school age (and also adapted for preschool age) children to help break the generational cycle of domestic abuse. It is based on a true story of a boy who lived in a violent household. Written in simple terms that can easily be understood, "Something is Wrong at My House" addresses and describes the effects of domestic abuse in terms of a child's feelings and reactions. There are specific suggestions for what the child can do to deal with their own chaotic feelings to avoid violence and a Safety Plan development suggestion so that the child can take appropriate steps to protect himself and siblings when the violence is too threatening. The book's format is such that each set of pages presents similar information for an older child or for a preschool-aged child. It ends with suggestions for adults to contact for help and some positive steps a child can take plus affirmations: "I am a very special, lovable person. My needs are important. I deserve to be safe and happy and so do you!" "Something Is Wrong at My House" is an excellent resource for children in families at risk and those who work with them or are close to them. Also recommended by the same publisher is "Where is My Mommy?: Coping When a Parent Leaves (And Doesn't Come Back)," by Mary Kilgore and Mitchell Kilgore, illustrated by Cary Pillo.
I read this book to my five year old grandson. It really did not keep his interest. I wasn 't crazy about the illustrations of the mother being slapped. I bought it because I know in the past, my grandson has witnessed his dad hitting his mom. However, it has been a long time.It gives tips on how to tell if you have domestic violence in the home. It lets the children know that it is not their fault. There are some good self esteem lines for the child in here.I would not recommend this book for little children. With that being sad, it is good for older children.
When the boy first mentions the abusive behavior to an adult, that person does not respond concerned or help him. He then goes to another trusted adult and is helped that time. I love that it shows children must keep talking about it and not take it personal when the adult does not respond appropriately.
The drawings in this book are kind of boring, plain black and white. And, on one page, it depicts a man slapping a woman while the kid looks on - while I know this is a reality for some kids, I didn't feel the picture was appropriate.
I've used it repeatedly with the children in therapy who live with trauma.. I will read the story then let the color pages.
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