Dissonance, A Memoir

"Dissonance is a courageous and riveting exploration of childhood sexual trauma, and how it reverberates into adulthood with devastating aftershocks. Farison has transmuted her pain into an exquisitely told story that depicts, with great precision, the grooming process that allowed an exploitative teacher to forge a bond of diabolical dependence, holding her emotionally hostage for years. This unforgettable book is a must-read for those who cannot imagine the web of bewilderment, guilt, and helplessness that ensnares victims - and it will inspire survivors who long to reclaim their lives." -Stephen Mills, author of Chosen: A Memoir of Stolen Boyhood

"Bridging the divide between past and present, consent and exploitation, Megan Farison invites the reader into a powerful story of redemption and healing."

-Dr. Ingrid Clayton, PhD, author of Believing Me

"...a knothole into an Escher-like depiction of how grooming erodes our foundational understanding of trustworthy connection. Megan reveals the disorienting impact of child sexual abuse and the enduring confusion while simultaneously illustrating a love of family and self-compassion too often absent in a survivor's narrative. Through her authentic writing, Megan emphasizes that, while abuse is a piece of her history, love is the heart of this book." -Anna Sonoda, author of Duck Duck Groom: How a Child Becomes a Target

Thirty-three-year-old Megan has the life she's always wanted: a loving husband, two beautiful children, a meaningful career, and, most recently, her dream home. Then, she's confronted with the news that her former high school band director has been arrested for child sexual abuse. The Michigan State Police are asking for anyone with information about the teacher to come forward, and Megan has plenty. But choosing to help the police means facing her past-and that won't be easy since she doesn't believe she was a victim of abuse.

Dissonance is a suspenseful and gripping account of unresolved trauma.