Description

 Beautiful Child

“The True Story of a Child Trapped in Silence and the Teacher Who Refused to Give up on Her”

This incredible true story is about a seven-year-old girl named Venus Fox who was completely mute and withdrawn. She never spoke, listened, or even acknowledged the presence of others around her. However, when she accidentally bumped into someone on the playground, she unleashed a terrifying rage that left everyone stunned. Torey Hayden, a special education teacher, was determined to help this child in need and went on a challenging journey to reach her.

The school year that followed was one of the most difficult and perplexing of Torey Hayden’s career. She faced seemingly insurmountable obstacles and was confronted with truly terrible revelations about Venus’s past. However, she remained committed to helping this “hopeless” girl and was rewarded with small, yet dazzling breakthroughs along the way.

Despite the strenuous journey, Torey Hayden never abandoned Venus and continued to patiently and lovingly lead her toward a brighter future. This heartwarming story is a testament to the power of dedication and love. Torey Hayden’s unwavering commitment to helping Venus Fox is truly inspiring and serves as a reminder that every child deserves a chance to thrive. Through her struggles and triumphs, Venus’s story is a powerful reminder that even the most challenging situations can be overcome with patience, perseverance, and a little bit of hope.

Who Is Torey Hayden

Torey L. Hayden, born Victoria Lynn Hayden on May 21, 1951, in Livingston, Montana, is a renowned child psychologist, special education teacher, university lecturer, and author. Her non-fiction books are based on her extensive real-life experiences in teaching and counseling children with special needs. With a focus on subjects such as autism, Tourette syndrome, sexual abuse, fetal alcohol syndrome, and selective mutism (formerly known as elective mutism), Hayden’s expertise shines through her literary works.

After completing her high school education in Billings, Montana, Hayden graduated in 1969 and went on to attend Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. It was during this time that she developed a passion for working with children with special needs, which ultimately shaped her career path. Following the success of her most famous book, “One Child,” Hayden made a significant life change by relocating to Wales in 1980. Two years later, she tied the knot with a Scottish man named Ken. In 1985, Hayden welcomed her daughter Sheena into the world. However, her marriage eventually ended in divorce.

In addition to her non-fiction books, Hayden has also ventured into the realm of fiction, showcasing her versatility as an author. Her dedication to shedding light on the challenges faced by children with special needs has made her a respected figure in the field of education and psychology. Through her writing, Hayden continues to inspire and educate readers worldwide.