"The wicked prey
The faithful pray
and no-one is safe
from those who
will not sleep"

Abandoned by her mother.

Failed by foster care.

To survive, she'll have to rely on herself.

New York City, 1979, Joanna's mother sends her on cocaine delivery runs. She spends many days alone locked up in a Jackson Heights apartment, and many nights lying awake in fear for her life. After two traumatic years living with her mother, she is sent into a foster care system that fails to protect her. 

Through an inspirational first-hand account of her chaotic childhood, author, podcaster, and creative entrepreneur Marina Aris explores the cycle of familial abandonment and how it impacts the lives of unwanted children.

A must-read for social workers, child welfare professionals, and teachers alike. This book is a testament to the power of human resilience.