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Kendra's Pearl - K.L. Lewis
Kendra's Pearl
K.L. Lewis
ISBN: 9780595535132
iUniverse
Reviewed By Renee Washburn
Official Apex Reviews Rating:
When Kendra's father dies suddenly in a tragic motorcycle accident, her mother, Pearl, begins a long, slow trek into the dark realm of abject depression and self-destruction. As her emotional and psychological state worsens, she begins to deflect her anger and pain onto Kendra, who begins to crumble under the considerable weight of the ongoing abuse. Ultimately, Kendra must face the difficult decision of leaving home - and the mother she still loves dearly - for good, or becoming another tragic victim of the perpetual cycle of abuse...
Kendra's Pearl is a moving, heart-rending read. In it, author K.L. Lewis paints a clear, vivid picture of the realities of abuse, without committing the mistake of over-sensationalizing the issue. Through Kendra, readers are allowed to witness the damaging effects of the mental and emotional scars that abuse often leaves. Likewise, in Pearl, readers are also presented with a stark glimpse into the heart and mind of an abuser; commonly depicted as ogrish, insensitive brutes, abusers, in fact, do not fit any particular mold - but are rather products of the same circumstances and challenges that confront each of us every day. Unbeknownst to many, the evolution of an abuser is often a gradual one, and Lewis' masterful portrayal of Pearl's fateful descent into the cycle of domestic violence is both gripping and powerfully enlightening.
Raw and real, Kendra's Pearl is a compelling testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Highly recommended.
Official Apex Reviews Interview: K.L. Lewis (Kendra's Pearl)
Apex Reviews: Thanks for joining us for this interview, K.L. We're looking forward to sharing more about your book with our readers.
What served as the primary inspiration for the story?
K.L. Lewis: Primarily inspiration came from personal experiences from my own family life. Growing up in a single family home certainly could be difficult and stressful at times. Like many families I have had one of every kind of persona in my family, the drunk, the drug-addict, the abuser, and so forth. Also, being in the military for 15 years now, I have come across some horrific family situations with friends and Soldier’s I have met throughout the years. I have found that many Soldier’s come from broken, abusive homes, and joined the military in an attempt to leave that life behind, many struggle to get past the past and move forward with their lives.
AR: Please explain the significance of the title for our readers.
KLL: As stated before, in the story I pulled from some of my own personal experiences. In my poetry book, I wrote a poem titled Her Daughter’s Pearl, which was addressed to my mother. The poem basically conveyed that I loved my mother, despite her flaws, despite her past mistakes, she was still my pearl. After pondering between titles, I thought back to that poem, and decided on the title Kendra’s Pearl because it was more personal.
AR: Where does Kendra draw her considerable strength from?
KLL: Kendra dealt with a heavy load for many years: Caring for her siblings, enduring the abuse from her mother, and growing up in an overall dysfunctional family. She could either sink or swim, and she chose to swim as difficult as it may have been. Desperately not wanting to be like her mother Pearl brought about the significant strength and determination in her.
AR: How does Pearl manage to slip into the throes of the abusive cycle without fully realizing it?
KLL: Pearl was a product of an abusive mother herself. Unbeknownst to her she may have carried a lot of pain and resentment from her own past and upbringing. Her way of dealing with issues and disciplining was merely a learned behavior and the only way she may have known to deal with them. Moreover, Pearl did not seem to be in control of her own life. She went through many failed relationships, having more children with no father’s as a result, and stringent finances. Friends and family cringed at being in her presence because of her temper and negativity. As the pressures got heavier, Pearl’s internal rage began to surface more and more, until she could no longer control it.
AR: Why do you think abuse remains so widespread in modern society?
KLL: Simply not being educated, and being products of abusive homes. Learned behavior can be powerful and/or destructive. The belief that “that’s how I was raised, and I turned out alright”. I have heard that from many parents and family members, but the truth is that a lot of them did not turn out alright. They became abusive, not so kind creatures. They deal with situations with anger and violence, which in turn causes the child to suffer and possibly grow up doing the same to their loved ones. This can in turn have long-term effects on one’s psyche and can be self-destructive. Also violence is more common in single family homes and/or homes where there is a financial burden. The stress can become overwhelming, resulting in disastrous, abusive outcomes.
AR: Is domestic violence more prevalent in African American communities than in others?
KLL: From research that I have come across domestic violence is experienced in all ethnicities. Child abuse tends to be higher in ages 16-24, but can be worse off the younger and more helpless the child is. In a 2002 study, there were actually 54% of White victims, compared to 26% African American, and 11% Hispanic. Abuse strikes everywhere, all socio-economic backgrounds, but particularly lower socio-economic families.
AR: What advice would you give to someone who finds him/herself stuck in an abusive situation?
KLL: I hope this book will touch readers all over and allow those abused, particularly young girls, to know that they have a chance in life. They can make a difference, no matter what you’ve been through, no matter what anyone has told you. Believing is receiving. If I didn’t believe that I would have never finished this book. Life if a journey, and through that journey it is up to us to find the key to our own success, the very meaning of our lives, our purpose, and there is a purpose. Don’t fall victims to your abusers, do something about it instead. Make your life a positive one. There are organizations specifically designed to help in domestic abuse/child abuse situations. One such organization is called Child Help, which is designed to put an end to the abuse, provide awareness, education, prevention and intervention in such cases.
AR: What kinds of responses have readers had to the book thus far?
KLL: A lot of readers have shared personal stories with me about their upbringing after reading the book. I have heard stories from emotional to sexual abuse. Several readers have expressed interest in writing about their experiences, but are hesitant. Overall people have enjoyed the book and given positive feedback.
AR: What's the main message that you'd like readers to take away from the story?
KLL: I want readers to know that life is but a dream. Dream big dreams, do big things. It truly is what you do with your internal conflicts/emotions that can determine your future. And as stated above our journey in life is awaiting our presence. I want readers to follow their dreams and follow the advice I mentioned above. Don’t fall victims to abuse, do something about it instead.
AR: How has your publishing experience been thus far with iUniverse?
KLL: Though there have been minor glitches here and there, the overall experience with iUniverse has been great. The staff was as helpful as they could be. I would have definitely preferred to know my editor and be able to receive direct feedback, however I know these companies are very busy working with many authors from all over, and the important thing is that the work got done. Hopefully it will be received well.
AR: Please share more with our readers about Pure Thoughts, your collection of poetry.
KLL: Pure Thoughts is a collection of poetry that I have written over many years, though most have been modified or adjusted. These poems are based on real-life situations of love and romance, pain and heartbreak, and strength and courage. You can find more on the poetry book on my website or xlibris.com/bookstore. I am re-releasing this book, so I will be making some changes to the cover.
AR: What are your future writing/publishing aspirations?
KLL: I am currently working on two other novels, and re-releasing my poetry book since I have never had the opportunity to promote it. Though I am currently in the military, and have 5 years left before I am eligible to retire, I plan to keep writing, as it is my passion. I hope to one day become a best-selling author and/or to have a lifetime movie made from one of my books. At the same time I hope to draw people into my writing and hopefully inspire someone in some way.
AR: How can our readers learn more about you and your ongoing efforts?
KLL: Readers can follow my blog http://booksbykllewis.blogspot.com or my website www.booksbykllewis.com. I am also on Facebook and Twitter, which is posted on my blog.
AR: How can they contact you directly?
KLL: I can be contacted through my website www.booksbykllewis.com, where messages are forwarded directly to my cell phone.
AR: Any final thoughts you'd like to share?
KLL: Thank you so very much for taking the time to do this interview with me. Again, I hope to reach an audience and be able to inspire or help someone who may be going through some type of abuse or just down on hope. It has truly been a pleasure.
AR: Thanks again, K.L., and best of continued success to you in all your endeavors!
K.L. Lewis
ISBN: 9780595535132
iUniverse
Reviewed By Renee Washburn
Official Apex Reviews Rating:
When Kendra's father dies suddenly in a tragic motorcycle accident, her mother, Pearl, begins a long, slow trek into the dark realm of abject depression and self-destruction. As her emotional and psychological state worsens, she begins to deflect her anger and pain onto Kendra, who begins to crumble under the considerable weight of the ongoing abuse. Ultimately, Kendra must face the difficult decision of leaving home - and the mother she still loves dearly - for good, or becoming another tragic victim of the perpetual cycle of abuse...
Kendra's Pearl is a moving, heart-rending read. In it, author K.L. Lewis paints a clear, vivid picture of the realities of abuse, without committing the mistake of over-sensationalizing the issue. Through Kendra, readers are allowed to witness the damaging effects of the mental and emotional scars that abuse often leaves. Likewise, in Pearl, readers are also presented with a stark glimpse into the heart and mind of an abuser; commonly depicted as ogrish, insensitive brutes, abusers, in fact, do not fit any particular mold - but are rather products of the same circumstances and challenges that confront each of us every day. Unbeknownst to many, the evolution of an abuser is often a gradual one, and Lewis' masterful portrayal of Pearl's fateful descent into the cycle of domestic violence is both gripping and powerfully enlightening.
Raw and real, Kendra's Pearl is a compelling testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Highly recommended.
Official Apex Reviews Interview: K.L. Lewis (Kendra's Pearl)
Apex Reviews: Thanks for joining us for this interview, K.L. We're looking forward to sharing more about your book with our readers.
What served as the primary inspiration for the story?
K.L. Lewis: Primarily inspiration came from personal experiences from my own family life. Growing up in a single family home certainly could be difficult and stressful at times. Like many families I have had one of every kind of persona in my family, the drunk, the drug-addict, the abuser, and so forth. Also, being in the military for 15 years now, I have come across some horrific family situations with friends and Soldier’s I have met throughout the years. I have found that many Soldier’s come from broken, abusive homes, and joined the military in an attempt to leave that life behind, many struggle to get past the past and move forward with their lives.
AR: Please explain the significance of the title for our readers.
KLL: As stated before, in the story I pulled from some of my own personal experiences. In my poetry book, I wrote a poem titled Her Daughter’s Pearl, which was addressed to my mother. The poem basically conveyed that I loved my mother, despite her flaws, despite her past mistakes, she was still my pearl. After pondering between titles, I thought back to that poem, and decided on the title Kendra’s Pearl because it was more personal.
AR: Where does Kendra draw her considerable strength from?
KLL: Kendra dealt with a heavy load for many years: Caring for her siblings, enduring the abuse from her mother, and growing up in an overall dysfunctional family. She could either sink or swim, and she chose to swim as difficult as it may have been. Desperately not wanting to be like her mother Pearl brought about the significant strength and determination in her.
AR: How does Pearl manage to slip into the throes of the abusive cycle without fully realizing it?
KLL: Pearl was a product of an abusive mother herself. Unbeknownst to her she may have carried a lot of pain and resentment from her own past and upbringing. Her way of dealing with issues and disciplining was merely a learned behavior and the only way she may have known to deal with them. Moreover, Pearl did not seem to be in control of her own life. She went through many failed relationships, having more children with no father’s as a result, and stringent finances. Friends and family cringed at being in her presence because of her temper and negativity. As the pressures got heavier, Pearl’s internal rage began to surface more and more, until she could no longer control it.
AR: Why do you think abuse remains so widespread in modern society?
KLL: Simply not being educated, and being products of abusive homes. Learned behavior can be powerful and/or destructive. The belief that “that’s how I was raised, and I turned out alright”. I have heard that from many parents and family members, but the truth is that a lot of them did not turn out alright. They became abusive, not so kind creatures. They deal with situations with anger and violence, which in turn causes the child to suffer and possibly grow up doing the same to their loved ones. This can in turn have long-term effects on one’s psyche and can be self-destructive. Also violence is more common in single family homes and/or homes where there is a financial burden. The stress can become overwhelming, resulting in disastrous, abusive outcomes.
AR: Is domestic violence more prevalent in African American communities than in others?
KLL: From research that I have come across domestic violence is experienced in all ethnicities. Child abuse tends to be higher in ages 16-24, but can be worse off the younger and more helpless the child is. In a 2002 study, there were actually 54% of White victims, compared to 26% African American, and 11% Hispanic. Abuse strikes everywhere, all socio-economic backgrounds, but particularly lower socio-economic families.
AR: What advice would you give to someone who finds him/herself stuck in an abusive situation?
KLL: I hope this book will touch readers all over and allow those abused, particularly young girls, to know that they have a chance in life. They can make a difference, no matter what you’ve been through, no matter what anyone has told you. Believing is receiving. If I didn’t believe that I would have never finished this book. Life if a journey, and through that journey it is up to us to find the key to our own success, the very meaning of our lives, our purpose, and there is a purpose. Don’t fall victims to your abusers, do something about it instead. Make your life a positive one. There are organizations specifically designed to help in domestic abuse/child abuse situations. One such organization is called Child Help, which is designed to put an end to the abuse, provide awareness, education, prevention and intervention in such cases.
AR: What kinds of responses have readers had to the book thus far?
KLL: A lot of readers have shared personal stories with me about their upbringing after reading the book. I have heard stories from emotional to sexual abuse. Several readers have expressed interest in writing about their experiences, but are hesitant. Overall people have enjoyed the book and given positive feedback.
AR: What's the main message that you'd like readers to take away from the story?
KLL: I want readers to know that life is but a dream. Dream big dreams, do big things. It truly is what you do with your internal conflicts/emotions that can determine your future. And as stated above our journey in life is awaiting our presence. I want readers to follow their dreams and follow the advice I mentioned above. Don’t fall victims to abuse, do something about it instead.
AR: How has your publishing experience been thus far with iUniverse?
KLL: Though there have been minor glitches here and there, the overall experience with iUniverse has been great. The staff was as helpful as they could be. I would have definitely preferred to know my editor and be able to receive direct feedback, however I know these companies are very busy working with many authors from all over, and the important thing is that the work got done. Hopefully it will be received well.
AR: Please share more with our readers about Pure Thoughts, your collection of poetry.
KLL: Pure Thoughts is a collection of poetry that I have written over many years, though most have been modified or adjusted. These poems are based on real-life situations of love and romance, pain and heartbreak, and strength and courage. You can find more on the poetry book on my website or xlibris.com/bookstore. I am re-releasing this book, so I will be making some changes to the cover.
AR: What are your future writing/publishing aspirations?
KLL: I am currently working on two other novels, and re-releasing my poetry book since I have never had the opportunity to promote it. Though I am currently in the military, and have 5 years left before I am eligible to retire, I plan to keep writing, as it is my passion. I hope to one day become a best-selling author and/or to have a lifetime movie made from one of my books. At the same time I hope to draw people into my writing and hopefully inspire someone in some way.
AR: How can our readers learn more about you and your ongoing efforts?
KLL: Readers can follow my blog http://booksbykllewis.blogspot.com or my website www.booksbykllewis.com. I am also on Facebook and Twitter, which is posted on my blog.
AR: How can they contact you directly?
KLL: I can be contacted through my website www.booksbykllewis.com, where messages are forwarded directly to my cell phone.
AR: Any final thoughts you'd like to share?
KLL: Thank you so very much for taking the time to do this interview with me. Again, I hope to reach an audience and be able to inspire or help someone who may be going through some type of abuse or just down on hope. It has truly been a pleasure.
AR: Thanks again, K.L., and best of continued success to you in all your endeavors!