Book Review Summary: Little Girl Fly Away

Introduction

"Little Girl Fly Away" by Gene Stone is a gripping and emotionally charged book that delves into the true story of Ruth Finley, a childhood rape victim who develops a split personality and unknowingly writes death threats to herself. This psychological study explores the complexities of dissociative identity disorder, as Ruth uncovers the dark truth about her past and embarks on a journey of self-integration through therapy. With its compelling narrative and insightful analysis, this book has captivated readers and garnered widespread attention.

About Gene Stone

Gene Stone, the author of "Little Girl Fly Away," is a distinguished writer with a diverse background. He holds degrees from Stanford and Harvard, and has served as a Peace Corps volunteer, journalist, and editor for various publications. With over forty-five non-fiction books to his credit, including numerous New York Times bestsellers, Stone has established himself as a prolific and accomplished author. His ability to delve into complex subjects and craft compelling narratives has made him a sought-after writer in the literary world.

Analysis of Views

1. Emotional Impact: Readers have found "Little Girl Fly Away" to be an emotionally powerful and moving book. The story of Ruth Finley's traumatic past and her journey towards healing has resonated deeply with readers, evoking a range of emotions from sadness to compassion.
2. Unique Perspective: While not the most well-known case of dissociative identity disorder, the book offers a unique and intriguing perspective on the subject. The exploration of legal issues surrounding responsibility for crimes committed by alternate personalities while in control of the physical body adds depth to the narrative.
3. Fascinating Storytelling: Many readers have praised Gene Stone's ability to weave a compelling story around Ruth Finley's ordeal. The author's meticulous research and his ability to gain access to Ruth's friends, family, and psychiatrist have contributed to the authenticity of the narrative.
4. Intensity and Relevance: The intensity of "Little Girl Fly Away" has surprised readers, particularly given the sensitive nature of its subject matter. The portrayal of Ruth's journey towards self-integration and her struggle to overcome her past traumas has highlighted the fragility of the human mind.
5. Well-Written Account: Readers have commended the book for its well-crafted account of Ruth Finley's experiences. While acknowledging that the therapy sessions were detailed, they appreciate the author's ability to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding dissociative identity disorder.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. Compelling Storytelling: The captivating narrative and well-crafted storytelling make "Little Girl Fly Away" a highly recommended read for those interested in true crime and psychological thrillers. The book offers a unique perspective on dissociative identity disorder and provides valuable insights into human resilience.
2. Emotional Impact: Readers have found "Little Girl Fly Away" to be emotionally impactful, highlighting its ability to evoke deep emotions and resonate with readers on a personal level. The book's exploration of trauma and healing makes it a powerful read for those seeking to understand the human experience.
3. Educational Value: While not an easy read due to its subject matter, "Little Girl Fly Away" offers educational value by shedding light on dissociative identity disorder and its complexities. The book provides readers with a deeper understanding of mental health issues and the challenges faced by individuals struggling with trauma.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Slow Pace: Some readers have found the book to be slow-paced, particularly during the therapy sessions. While these sections provide valuable insights into Ruth's journey, they may not appeal to readers seeking a faster-paced narrative.
2. Limited Expectations: While "Little Girl Fly Away" exceeded some readers' expectations, others had limited expectations due to their previous experiences with local Wichita history books. These readers found the book to be well-written but felt it could have been shorter or more concise in certain areas.

Conclusion

"Little Girl Fly Away" by Gene Stone is a compelling and thought-provoking book that delves into the true story of Ruth Finley's struggle with dissociative identity disorder. With its emotionally impactful narrative, unique perspective, and educational value, the book has garnered widespread attention from readers. While some readers have found it slow-paced or have limited expectations based on their previous experiences with local Wichita history books, the majority agree that "Little Girl Fly Away" is a well-crafted account that sheds light on the complexities of mental health issues and human resilience. Overall, this book stands out as a must-read for those interested in true crime, psychological thrillers, and exploring the depths of human suffering and triumph over adversity.