A powerful true story of a woman's struggle with domestic abuse, suicide attempts, incarceration in a mental hospital and ultimately diagnosis of her malady and recovery by author Sherry Genga, edited by Nina Anderson
A once vibrant oak tree in her yard began dying, voicing cries of help through its dead leaves and moss-covered branches. Inside the house Barbara too was in crisis, the recipient of her husband’s anger and rage. As time passes Barbara can no longer stay strong. While she deals with her own demons, the oak too weakens. Based on a true story, this woman takes us inside her emotionally charged existence, letting us feel the anguish of domestic abuse, divorce, attempted suicides, and incarceration in a mental institution. A savior finally unravels the mystery surrounding her dysfunctional mental state and leads her on the path to recovery. This book is a must-read for anyone going through domestic abuse or depression, or family members who are trying to make sense out of the situation.
Excerpt
This book by Sherry Genga is a powerful look at what one woman went through from domestic abuse to divorce to suicide attempts and incarceration into a mental hospital. It is based on a true story.
Professional Reviews
Mark Tuttle, MD
This is an excellent book. We, as physicians, must always question that the obvious answer may not be correct. Medicine is a career of learning, unlearning, and learning anew as new diseases and cures are discovered. We should never avoid questioning a diagnosis or treatment as was well demonstrated by this book.
"The Shattered Oak" is an amazing story. The continued storyline of the comparison of the author's life to the shattering oak tree is compelling. This story shines a light on two problems that exist in our society: domestic abuse and misdiagnosis of mental health diseases, both serious. The courageous story shared by Sherry Genga is encouraging and uplifting. "The Shattering Oak" is a well-written book that takes the reader on a journey with the author. The book is raw and honest and her words speak the meaning of the book when Genga writes, "Through my words, I may help them cope and achieve their survival" {the injured}. What strength she shared with us. I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed by Laura H.
5/22/2020
This book brings the reader on a journey of inconceivable pain, heartache, and abuse with brief glimpses of hope throughout.
The author's harrowing tale is one of truth and continued reflection of self.
To say that this person has been through hell and back would be an understatement.
The writing the author uses makes this book easy to read and easy for the reader to be drawn into the story.
This is a must read for any person who wants to fully understand the difficulties an abused person lives through.
Thank you to the author for this labor of love.
