Chosen

A Memoir of Stolen Boyhood

By: Stephen Mills

Narrated by: Adam Barr, Stephen Mills

Length: 10 hrs and 55 mins

Publisher's summary

The epilogue is read by the author.

"An unparalleled achievement, a work of shattering, almost unbearable radiance. I did not stop crying throughout. For Mills. For my young self. For all of us who have lived and continue to live in that pitiless abyss of childhood abuse. To read this courageous book is to be transformed utterly by Mills's empathy, resilience, and grace. Mark my words: Chosen is destined to be a classic because this is a book that will save lives." (Junot Díaz, author of The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao)

At 13 years old, Stephen Mills is chosen for special attention by the director of his Jewish summer camp, a charismatic social worker intent on becoming his friend. Stephen, whose father died when he was four, places his trust in this authority figure, who first grooms and then molests him for two years.

Stephen tells no one, but the aftershocks rip through his adult life, as intense as his denial: self-loathing, drug abuse, petty crime, and horrific nightmares, all made worse by the discovery that his abuser is moving from camp to camp, state to state, molesting other boys. Only physical and mental collapse bring Stephen to confront the truth of his boyhood and begin the painful process of recovery—as well as a decades-long crusade to stop a serial predator, find justice, and hold to account those who failed the children in their care.

The trauma of sexual abuse is shared by one out of every six men, yet very few have broken their silence. Unflinching and compulsively consumable, Chosen eloquently speaks for those countless others and their families. It is a rare act of consummate courage and generosity—the indelible story of a man who faces his torment and his tormentor and, in the process, is made whole.

A Macmillan Audio production from Metropolitan Books.

©2022 Stephen Mills (P)2022 Macmillan Audio

Couldn’t stop listening from the first sentence.

Stephen Mills is a gifted writer who tackled a heart wrenching subject. His own sexual abuse. Not only was it brave and honest, it is one of the best books I have listened to in a long time. I hope his words help other victims and their families.

Excellent memoir!

This memoir tells the story of the life long anguish that a boy will face who is sexually assaulted, shame, powerlessness, depression, and how he seeks to overcome and manage the horrific trauma. It’s certainly important for anyone struggling with PTSD from trauma. It took enormous courage to write this memoir because of the shame boys/men experience when assaulted. The reason I didn't give it 5 stars was I think the beginning moved slowly on audio. The pace may be different in print. It lost some tension between scenes, I think. Definitely worth reading!

A must-read

Chosen: A Memoir of Stolen Boyhood is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the long-lasting effects of abuse on young boys. #SOLREFORM, let's break the cycle and support survivors.

An empowering journey of healing!

"Chosen" by Stephen Mills is a poignant-memoir that delves into the depths of trauma, survival, and healing. As I read it, I found myself emotionally invested in Stephen's journey, rooting for him to find solace and understanding amidst the turmoil of his past.

Mills eloquently captures a survivor's struggles and inner turmoil, drawing readers into his world with raw honesty and vulnerability. As a survivor myself, I found his narrative deeply relatable, resonating with the complexities of trauma and its aftermath. The author's portrayal of his battles with feelings of worthlessness, the longing for escape, and the pervasive sense of isolation is both haunting and profoundly moving. This book can serve as a beacon of understanding for male survivors, reminding them that they are not alone in their experiences.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Chosen" is Mills' exploration of the journey towards self-discovery and acceptance. His gradual realization that he is not alone in his pain is decisive, highlighting the importance of connection and community in the healing process.
Witnessing him piece his life back together, brick by brick, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Furthermore, "Chosen" is more than just a personal narrative; it is a valuable resource for survivors, particularly male survivors, who may find solace and validation in Mills' experiences. While every survivor's journey is unique, the emotions and struggles depicted in this book are universal, offering readers a sense of camaraderie and understanding.

However, it's important to note that "Chosen" does not shy away from the darker aspects of trauma. Readers should be prepared for visceral reactions, ranging from anger to sorrow, as Mills courageously confronts the pain of his past. Yet, amidst the darkness, moments of profound joy and resilience serve as beacons of hope.

In conclusion, "Chosen" is a masterfully written memoir that sheds light on the complexities of trauma and the transformative power of healing.
Stephen Mills' journey is a testament to the human capacity for resilience and redemption, offering hope and inspiration to survivors everywhere.

This book is not just a story but a lifeline for those navigating their path toward healing and self-discovery. It's a reminder that no matter how dark the past, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

Excellent!

I am in awe of the courage it took to write this book. God bless you!