Local author publishes first book

LEAMINGTON — Lucilia Afonso’s new book, On Broken Wings, has been released on Amazon and the local author couldn’t be more pleased.

The story, about a troubled teen who has endured a life a turmoil and violence, was written in 1986, but Afonso recently decided to publish the work.

The former Drama and English teacher at Cardinal Carter Catholic High School based the characters on a composite of students and adults she’s met along the way.

“None of the events in the book took place, but had the potential to come very close,” she said.

The story is aimed at young adults and Afonso is hoping that young people with similar problems will take away some hope for a better life.

“They often feel shame when they see others with a perfect life, while theirs is not,” she said.

The story follows Devin, a typical teen, living behind closed doors in a world of turmoil. On Broken Wings is gritty, honest and authentic — a moving portrait of a life spent trying to please a mother that can’t seem to love him back.

Afonso spent over 30 years in the teaching profession and saw many situations where she felt kids were being abused or mishandled in some way.

LUCILIA AFONSO

The now retired mother of two girls, included the Kids’ Helpline at the end of the book, “because a lot of kids still feel alone.”

Her goal is to hopefully help someone who is feeling that way, and along the way, she’s hoping that she raises some funds for the Bridge Youth Centre in Leamington.

If you’d like your own copy of On Broken Wings, search for it on Amazon.ca.