Author Cassandra Anderson is bringing her book, “Rising from the Ashes: A Journey from Trauma to Healing” to the Indianapolis Public Library’s Eagle Branch. Starting at 2 p.m. Oct. 23, Anderson will read a chapter from her book and sign copies for audience members.
The book, published in September, focuses on Anderson’s experiences with domestic violence and sexual abuse, as well as racism and sexism in the workplace.
Anderson is far from alone in her experiences. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience interpersonal violence at some point in their lives. About 1 in 3 women and roughly 1 in 6 men report being victims of sexual violence.
“I wrote this book because my story has power,” Anderson said. “And if it inspires someone else, that’s great. But I wrote this for me.”
Inspired by her therapist, Anderson began detailing her experiences with childhood sexual abuse and watching her mother experience domestic violence at the hands of her stepfather. The process wasn’t easy. Oftentimes, Anderson found herself reliving the trauma that she previously went through. Despite the difficulties, she said writing the book allowed her to take back some of her power.
Meet the author!
Cassandra Anderson will speak at 2 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Indianapolis Public Library Eagle Branch, 3905 Moller Road. Copies of “Rising from the Ashes: A Journey from Trauma to Healing” can be purchased on Anderson’s website.
“Trauma doesn’t define who I am,” Anderson said. “Writing helped me reclaim my peace.”
After completing the book, the logical next step was to promote it. Taking advice from her writing coach, Anderson will read a chapter from “Rising from the Ashes” and discuss the events which inspired it before signing copies for audience members. Anderson hopes those in attendance are inspired from her vulnerability and learn something about themselves in turn.
“We tend to suffer in silence and wear this mask that we’re so strong,” Anderson said. “I want them to take away that they aren’t alone, that they can take the mask off and be free and that self-peace and self-love is the most important thing. … Mental health is stigmatized in the Black community, but I want people to know it’s OK to seek help for the disruptions you face on your journey.”
Contact staff writer Breanna Cooper at 317-762-7848. Follow her on Twitter @BreannaNCooper.
