Children’s Book Supports Young People Facing Abuser in Court
“Monty’s Day in Court” is the First Children’s Book Written from the Perspective of a Child Who Testifies in Court Against his Abuser
Over 3900 copies have been purchased by more than 150 nonprofits and local agencies
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About the Book
“Monty’s Day in Court” shows young people they have the power to bring about change for themselves and others. Monty’s story serves as a tool for children in learning resilience and as an aid for those on the front lines helping young people through challenging times.
The book follows 10-year-old Monty’s journey as he learns it is ok to be upset about his experiences and works through his feelings with his therapist. After he is subpoenaed to testify, caring adults help him understand what will happen in court and the support he will have throughout the process.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, are costly. They include experiences such as abuse or growing up while a parent is incarcerated. The economic and social costs to families, communities and society totals hundreds of billions of dollars each year. For children, ACEs can have life-long consequences. Interventions and professional support go a long way in addressing ACEs, providing both short and long-term safety nets for vulnerable children.
“Monty’s Day in Court” assists therapists, court programs, social workers, child advocacy centers, teachers, law enforcement, attorneys and parents in helping children better understand the process of testifying in court and reduce the traumatic impact of the experience.
Author Jessica Miles is a former foster parent who writes about her family’s experiences. Illustrator Gina Dee is a former foster parent who has written a children’s book about foster care.
“Monty’s Day in Court: What To Expect When You Have To Testify In Court” is appropriate for children age 5 and up (see Discussion Guide). Independently published and available through Amazon ISBN-13: 979-8618619783 (El Día de Monty en la Corte ISBN-13: 979-8686671270). Proceeds from this publication will be donated to charities that support children who testify in court.
