The Facts Speak for Themselves

Brock Cole's 'The Facts Speak for Themselves' is a raw and unflinching young adult novel that delves into the traumatic experiences of thirteen-year-old Linda. At the request of her social worker, Linda gradually recounts the events that shaped her life, including living with an unstable mother, a sexual assault she endured, and a murder she witnessed. The narrative is a powerful exploration of memory, trauma, and the courage it takes to speak about deeply painful experiences. This book is intended for mature young adult readers (ages 12-18) and addresses very sensitive topics with a gritty, realistic tone, making it suitable for parents and educators looking for a book to open conversations about difficult circumstances and the importance of seeking help.

At the request of her social worker, thirteen-year-old Linda gradually reveals how her life with her unstable mother and her younger brother led to her rape and the murder she witnessed.