William Bates begins his autobiography with a compilation of childhood memories best described by following the analogy set in the title. He describes memories as though marked by tombstones commemorating a childhood marred by abuse. He revisits his past through the benefit of self-analysis, endurance, and self-motivation. The early years in the “historical Paradise” of Niagara-on-the-Lake included boyhood escapades which he describes with fondness and humor. There are sporadic hints of something coming in the future that is even worse than living in a home with a tragically abusive alcoholic mother, and an otherwise successful father who is unable to intercede on his children’s behalf.
In the middle and closing chapters, the full disclosure of a second abuse is related – the ultimate betrayal by representatives of the Catholic Church. The urgency, despair and search for understanding come alive in these passages. These are not memories but rather an ongoing experience.
Through the constant love and support of his wife, together they find a way to acknowledge Bates’ family ghosts and to combat the Church by finding a way that helped not only him but others who have been damaged.
A contact list of Survivors’ groups is included.
