Author Archives: pamwatts

About pamwatts

Writer, Reader, and Children's advocate

2013 Rainbow List

So the ALA awards have been announced. And there are some really exciting calls on there. But in award season, I wanted to draw special attention to the 2013 Rainbow List of 50 outstanding books for youth about GLBTQ issues. … Continue reading

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Stability

So, I turned 30 about a month ago and it’s made me start evaluating a bunch of things in order to move forward in my life in a better way. One of the main things I’ve been thinking about is … Continue reading

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Merry X-Mas: Books About Gifts

Christmas can be a lonely time for a lot of kids. Many will look at their presents–the number and kind–as a kind of thermometer to see how many people in their lives really know them and love them. And many … Continue reading

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I was Adam Lanza: a response to “I am Adam Lanza’s Mother”

The Huffington Post article “I Am Adam Lanza’s Mother” left out a crucial set of details. This mother would have us believe that her child is scary and terrifying and that it is just part of who he is. He … Continue reading

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Connecticut Shooting and the Cycles of Abuse

I am sick over the news today. We all are, I’m sure. And I have been reading every news site and facebook status update about the shooting that I can find. I’m sure I’m not alone. And everyone needs to … Continue reading

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More Thoughts on Boundaries and Some Books

I spoke about how children develop poor boundaries in the context of abusive family situations a few months ago. It’s something I have been continuing to think about and I have a few more thoughts on the issue. The first is … Continue reading

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In Gratitude: Books that Affirm Life

  Today was Thanksgiving, and I had a lovely day. This has always been one of my favorite holidays. Each year my Mom and my sister and I would get up at the crack of dawn and would cook together … Continue reading

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Lovability

I’ve been struggling with something recently, and I think it’s something that a lot of kids who grow up in abusive households struggle with. Fundamental self-worth and lovability. I think some form of the question: why do bad things happen … Continue reading

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The Perks of Being a Wallflower

I went and saw The Perks of Being a Wallflower last night. I’d read the novel by Stephen Chbosky a few years ago. He, incidentally, wrote the screenplay and directed the film, as well. I just want to put in … Continue reading

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Ode to the AVID Program

So, I have recently gotten a job that may be the most fun and most rewarding job that I have ever had. This, I think, has something to do with the fact that it is one of the most worthwhile … Continue reading

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