A conversation with former editor-in-chief of Parets Magazine ans editor of On Four Walls

I Wrote on All Four Walls: Teens Speak Out on Violence edited by Fran Fearnley is a disturbing yet truthful account of how teens, abused and bullied, somehow survive the brutality of their existence and manage to find meaning in their lives despite everything that happens to them. The book sponsored by the Toronto Public Library system is the first in a series of publications that seeks to give voice to the stories, thoughts and poems of teens living in the city of Toronto. Josephine Bryant, City Librarian, Toronto public Library writes, "here are the powerful stories of youth who agreed to share their experiences and their stories. It is an attempt to bring a positive approach to the issue of street youth. " Fran Fearnley says Adam, Allan, Caitlin, Claire, Debbie, Don, Janice, Kevin and Sue told us about their encounters with violence in one on one-taped interviews. Their very own words transcribed from those interviews, are what you will read. They are authentic oral testimonies as told to an empathetic listener. Dr. Fred Mathews a social worker with Central Toronto Youth Services concludes the book with advice to children and teens about what to do if they or others are or know of someone in need. He reminds young people "they must learn to trust teachers and educators and tell a teacher, principal, school worker, or other adult . I f they do not listen, tell a police officer, a nurse, parents, a friend but tell someone. Don't let previous negative experiences with some adults in power affect your decision, keep trying until you find someone who will believe you and take action. The important thing is do not stand by and let others be harmed. Violence is fueled by silence and stops when we all take a stand." (page 143)