Little Brucie: 
The True-Life Story of Struggle for Strength

​  This is the true story of a young boy living a life of secret extreme child abuse, identity struggles, and finding his way as a very young child to survive. Set primarily in rural midwestern America, “Little Brucie” tells the story of his constant guard, hoping to save the lives and well-being of his mother and sister from his same horrific treatment by remaining silent from the age of 6 to comply with the sinister instructions of his abuser. The story discusses suicidal thoughts and tendencies, loneliness and shame, feelings of worthlessness, and humiliation brought about by experiencing years of unthinkable acts.


The story also relates life as a gay child growing into a young man during a time when adolescence guides teenagers, and instead, needing to navigate a world of hatred and intolerance, self-denial, fears of coming out to loved ones, and searching for others to relate to. Finally, life’s journey leads him along a path toward real friendships, companionship, love, and ultimately finding a place to fit in.

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Top Reviews from Readers in the United States

Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Such a heartbreaking story! And I know them!
Reviewed February 20, 2022:      "A very sad story. How can anyone be so cruel to a child!! And to know the person who wrote the book is heartbreaking.  Please read for yourself and maybe save someone you might know from this pain??"
2 people found this helpful.

DizneeFreakazoid
5.0 out of 5 stars Great writing with remarkable storytelling
Reviewed September 23, 2021:     "Unimaginable circumstances that were placed on this young soul, but then guided through bravery to find his ultimate place in the world. Inspirational telling of overcoming adversity."

C.E.F. Book Reader
5.0 out of 5 stars   When you sit down to read this book, have tissues and a bottle of water nearby. 
Reviewed March 13, 2024:     "As I was reading the book, I kept wondering if I new the characters or the places that (was written about).  (To the author)  I want to tell you that I am so very sorry that you endured all of that torture and pain.... as a mom and a human being, I apologize that no one (was able) to help you, and that you had to experience those feelings."

Ms. R. L.
5.0 out of 5 stars   Intense. I had to stop reading multiple times because I was shocked and sickened. Sadly relatable.
Reviewed October 21, 2021:     "I bought this book yesterday.  I finished reading it today.  (It) brought back many memories of living with a dad that didn't want me.  And (like you) having a mom who loved me  She was my mom, dad, my everything.  Thanks for sharing your life in the book.  I LOVED IT.  (And) very well written."

Mrs. C. K .
5.0 out of 5 stars   I wish Oprah was still doing her book club thing... because I would be calling her and inviting her to read it...
Reviewed March 6, 2022:     "I know this sweet little boy...  between crying, imaging what was happening in my head, I got more furious.  (The book) is very educational for any aged person especially any young person struggling their feelings and sexuality."

Watch an interview with the author of "The Little Brucie"

Studio 3 on
WSAZ Television 3
Interview

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