MONTPELIER, Vt., March 9, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- The abandoned, the poor, the abused -- children in bleak situations whose futures have been blackened; you could almost picture malnourished toddlers with sad eyes. But retired child psychologist Robert Belenky, Ph.D., highlights youngsters who testify that the less-fortunate children still live with amazing hope and strength. His revelations are shared through his newly published picture book, Camaraderie -- a touching compilation of portraits and words of the children on the streets of Russia and Haiti.
The political and economical unrests of Russia and Haiti have brought poverty and neglect on their children. Camaraderie begins each testimony with stark recollections of children who have been mauled, who have witnessed their parents massacred, or who have lost their homes due to political violence. Pity may be a reader's initial reaction, but Belenky went beyond the abuses to share what moved him: the resilience of every kid in his book. From the same young victims of violence come forth a radiance of unbelievable vigor and beautiful child-like faith. Page after page, the book showcases the undying kiddie dreams and lovable characteristics inherent in all children -- a glowing dream to become a dancer, an exciting love for animals, or a determined attitude that life is more good than bad.
In Camaraderie, Belenky points out that the less-fortunate children are just like our own -- real, whole beings, with the humble desire to live and the need to be loved. He also delivers a strong message: that negligence and selfishness make adults accountable for spurring social unrests that have brought misfortune on children. This book is his call for moral action: that society must engage the problem and bring better futures to every child.
About the Author
Robert Belenky, Ph.D., is a retired child psychologist with over fifty years of experience. He earned his doctorate degree at Columbia University in 1959. He has worked in clinics, hospitals, and even a camp he organized for troubled kids called The Clearing in Marshfield forest in Vermont. He has also taught in a number of colleges and universities. Belenky has made a number of trips to Russia and Haiti, and he is popularly known to the kids there (and at his camp, too) as "Grandpa Bob."
Camaraderie -- By Robert Belenky, Ph.D.
Trade Paperback; $24.99; 72 pages; 1-4134-2421-X
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