THE DEBUT BOOK FROM VIRGINIA HEYWOOD

It Took Eight Weeks To Write But Forty Years To Tell.

A story of tumbling and turning yourself inside out to get answers buried deep within. Of growing up in a large, lively, and loving family with the dark companion of sexual abuse.

This journey pulls apart the deep and complex puzzle of sexual abuse and the ripples of pain that then occur. However, it also presents a beautiful example of how intoxicating and emancipating it can be when we permit ourselves time to grieve, and absorb and love who we have become.

SHARING MY STORY

Behind the Story: Virginia Heywood

Outside of her role as a General Manager of a boutique recruitment firm, Virginia devotedly explores her passions. Being a mother of four is highly demanding, however, she still makes time to practice and teach neurodivergent children yoga, mindfulness and meditation.

Creativity has flowed through Virginia in many ways, but writing came to her in a moment of peace. After being made redundant, she suddenly found herself with the most time she has had since falling pregnant at 24. Virginia slowly revisited the feelings that had been suppressed since this time and writing it down on paper naturally followed. Eight weeks later, Childfulness was written. 

  • Virginia Heywood’s memoir, Childfulness, is a tearful read into a life of sexual abuse, loss and betrayal but it is also a story of courage, forgiveness and hope. A must read for those who have suffered sexual abuse (particularly at a young age) and are still struggling with the repercussions and trying to make sense of who they are in the aftermath of sexual abuse.

    Justine

  • I was warned I might find it heavy going, I quickly read through the first couple of chapters and although dark undertones, the writing was inviting and the words built a clear image in my mind. The timeline jumps around, much like the author, and I kept turning the pages. My train ride home ended, and the book sat on my dresser, a corner of a page bent over to mark my place, there it sat until one Sunday afternoon I picked it up again and steamed through the remainder of the book. Wow, as warned, some heavy going on, some dark subjects, but a journey so beautifully told. 

  • Throughout her memoir, the depth of confusion and despair along with a delicate tenderness for herself brought me to tears. Virginia has always been one of the bravest people I know and her book is an extension of her authenticity. The courage to share her sexual abuse story; her deepest fears, most dreadful circumstances and yet the deep unwavering light of hope shines - making this a magical honour to witness and must read.