Behind the Bricks

About the Book

“Behind the Bricks” is a book written from the core of my heart.  It is a book that portrays the physical, verbal and mental abuse I suffered through out my childhood at the hand of my mother.  She ultimately blamed me for my father leaving her when she became pregnant.  In this book I reveal ways in which I kept my focus as well as my sanity, through the gift of laughter.  God sustained and preserved me while I endured pain and rejection.  “Behind the Bricks” is a book that is intended to encourage, mend and heal those who have had like experiences to know that God can really restore, build and promote them to positively impact the lives of others through His genuine love.

About the Author

Karen Wicks Gatling is a native of Atlantic City, New Jersey, who now resides in Towson, Maryland.  She is a retired Baltimore City Public School Educator of thirty-four years.    Karen has been happily married to her college sweetheart Eley for thirty-seven years. This union has been blessed with four children and two lovely granddaughters.  When Karen isn't writing she enjoys reading, playing chess, traveling and fellowshipping with family and friends.  It is Karen's desire to motivate individuals to never give up on themselves or God.    Karen's illustrator Parris Bowens is a native of Philadelphia, Pa. He is an international musician, composer and artist. Parris resides in Towson, Md. with his wife Dionne and one year old son Matthew, who we affectionately call Matt Matt.