My Dad Got Me to a Nunnery

The author's memoir chronicles a Maine castaway child's early years form kindergarten through high school at Lewiston, Lisbon, and Scarborough. The narrator spins the tale without intent to haunt the deceased for their improprieties toward him during his formative years at a convent and, later, when he lived with foster parents who were his guardians while he was a ward of the state. As a survivor of ruthless leaders of institutions parading as guardians of children, he replays that past, not as a vendetta, but as a prologue to those whose curiosity this story will reveal. May they learn from this writer's uncensored experience--with a few laughs along the way.

A comment from a highly respected school administrator:

"Just when I think I've read the worst, I turn a page and discover more. With each chapter I read, I become all the more astonished that who he is and has achieved, given what I believe are insurmountable odds."

A comment from one of the youngsters who attended St. Louis Home and School for Boys:

"It took me many years to pass by St. Louis Home without a sick stomach. Forty years later, my brothers and I are able to laugh about the entire experience."

A comment from the author's older brother:

"I read your book in two sections and found that on reading the second half, I could not put it down. A page turner for me."

A comment from the author's sisters:

"This book will be an interesting read to those, like us, who were institutionalized without a choice, and brought up by God-fearing and un-caring Catholic nuns."

"Your story was so touching: I learned a lot more aboutl your life than I knew, but I wasn't surprised."

A comment from a neighbor who lived across the street from the author:

"How wonderful--really wonderful sentiments from you as you spoke of our family next door when you lived with the abusive foster family about which we knew so little. While reading your book, I cried and laughed and was very impressed about all that you have accomplished despite your early start, given your sad years. Thank you for the wonderful things you said about our family--it was a kind and perfect description of the times. I have bought several copies to share with family and friends. Very well done; so pleased that you wrote this memoir."

A comment from a relative of the abusive foster parents:

"As for Babe [the foster father], I knew that sooner or later, you would wake up and get out of that nightmare. He is lucky that I wasn't in your shoes because I think I would have killed him."

A comment from the family of the author's exceptional eighth grade teacher and principal:

"We did not realize that the past for you was so rough, putting it mildly, and glad we had a small part in helping you move on and pursue your dreams. It makes both of us feel really good that we did somethig in our life to help you."