Denis Glass

Shivers, Slaps and Silence Denis Glass

Early personal identity and character are built, piece by piece, from childhood experiences that color our lives long after those events have faded from view. In cases of personal shock or abuse, deep parts of the self can be thrown into chaos. Not only the outer layers but also subtler areas such as inner identity and gender. In this true story of survival by two fragile teenagers, every layer of their identity is put to the test. They resist, battle and run, trying to escape a dark family secret, drugs, and toxic, picture-perfect suburban home lives. Things quickly get complicated. "What are you suggesting?" asked the doctor. "An operation?" I shrugged. "I don't know. Maybe." "To become a girl?" "No, just a neutral person." Inspiring, touching and scorchingly honest, 'Shivers, Slaps and Silence' is an intense, unforgettable journey, wildly paced and tinged with the sort of passion, unexpected humor and optimism that teenagers do best.