Hear My Roar: A Story of Family Violence

Gillian Watts is an accomplished freelance editor in Toronto. This is her first book.

Ben Hodson is a self-taught artist and children's book illustrator who lives near Ottawa.

Foreword

Many people are affected by violence in the home. This book is intended to help children who have been exposed to family violence by giving them a framework for discussing their feelings, as well as a means of better understanding how their family's situation could be improved.

Hear My Roar is the story of a family in which the father becomes abusive to his wife and child. The mother becomes concerned when she realizes what effect the violence is having on her family. She turns to her family doctor for help and takes action to end the abuse. The story ends with Mama Bear and her son, Orsa, in a shelter. Papa Bear faces responsibility for his actions and is encouraged to seek help in resolving his problem behavior.

Children learn by watching how their families and friends behave. If they see violence being used to solve conflicts they may try using it as well, much the way Orsa begins to imitate his father. Violent behavior in the home leads to anxiety, fear, and even physical injury. It can also have enduring emotional and behavioral consequences for those affected. Children need to learn that violence is never an appropriate way to resolve conflict or to control others, that it does not have to be tolerated, and that action can be taken to stop it.

It is important to understand that the person committing the violence is solely responsible for his or her behavior. Victims of family violence must come to realize that they are not to blame and that there are ways to protect themselves and get help when they need it. Above all, children must learn that there are people who care about them and who will try to help them, whether they are relatives, friends, teachers, social workers, or other concerned members of the community. If you know or suspect that a child is suffering from family violence, it is important to contact someone who can help. Whether it's a doctor, a guidance counselor, or a social service agency, make it someone whom you trust to take effective action.

Note to Parents and Caregivers

The original version of this book was written to be read by a parent or caregiver. The publishers hope that this new, "graphic narrative" version will speak directly to young readers and encourage them to talk with someone in a position to help. If you plan to read or give this book to a child who may need help, first read it yourself, noting any parallel situations that might be useful to discuss. Choose a quiet time and place to be with the child, and take as much time as you both need. Beginning readers may need help with some of the concepts, which could provide an opportunity to discuss any issues unique to the situation. You may decide to give more advanced readers time to check out the book on their own, and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings afterward. This is a time to help children share what has been going on, understand that something can be done about it, and anticipate how the future might be made better for the whole family.
-- Dr. Ty Hochban