Refuge in the Shadows: Searching for Caring Community in the Midst of Trauma

Trauma robs a person from feeling safe. It cripples one's ability to be in relationship with others and to trust that the world is good. Trauma changes everything. Through this memoir, told through prose and poetry, Kaisu Aldom takes the courageous step to share her trauma story in the hopes that others might find solace here. Kaisu invites her reader to consider the impact that trauma may be having on children, parents, and families in every community. Through her own experiences as a mother and teacher, Kaisu shares her journey through deep sorrow, anguish, and pain as she tries to grapple with the question whether healing from trauma can be found through communities that genuinely care.

Many people go unvalued in our world, including our innocent and vulnerable children. That's why we need this important and well-written book. Kaisu Aldom and her husband set on a journey to give all of their children a loving and trustworthy home, only to learn how unloving the world can sometimes be to traumatized kids and parents alike. The author is not only a mother, she's also a gifted elementary school teacher. Her book is full of suggestions about how individuals and institutions can practice the kind of empathy that relieves trauma rather than multiplying it. As a writer and the father of two adopted children, I highly recommend "Refuge in the Shadows." It's honest about what hides in the shadows of our world, but never fails to point us toward the light.
—Parker J. Palmer (author of "On the Brink of Everything," "The Courage to Teach,"
"A Hidden Wholeness," and "Let Your Life Speak")

"Kaisu has an incredibly powerful gift of touching the heart of the reader with her honest and vulnerable reflections. She beautifully shines necessary light on an unseen reality for those parenting children who have experienced trauma. She reminds us of the intense need for caring and healing communities all around us. This remarkable work is a must-read for all those doing life alongside families impacted by trauma."
—Meagan VanDiermen, Registered Clinical Counsellor

"In one of her brilliant and compelling poems, Kaisu Aldom tells us "all I have left to offer you is my story." And what a gift this story is for all of us! For who has not been touched by sadness and suffering in some way? Kaisu's book is particularly significant for those who have experienced trauma and for educators, counsellors, and health care professionals to provide deep insight into the lived experience of trauma. Kaisu takes you inside her own and her family's story of loss, grief, faith, and courage as she navigates both the darkness and the light of their experience. This book will inspire, provoke, and provide a balm for the soul. To use Kaisu's own words: "It does something to you. It changes you." Prepare to be changed as you read this provocative and heart-breaking book."
—Dr. Sue Montabello, Department of Education, Simon Fraser University