- Happy Baby
"Happy Baby", is a
2004 novel by Stephen Elliott.Plot
Theo is addicted to sadomasochism. He insists on being hurt - whether by one he loves or by a professional
dominatrix . Theo is a victim of thechild welfare system. Told in reverse chronological order, 'Happy Baby' begins when 36-year-old Theo returns toChicago after six years away, to visit an ex-girlfriend called Maria. He knows Maria from their years growing up together in a state institution, where Theo was sent aged thirteen after his abusive father was killed and his mother died from multiple sclerosis. Theo then drifts into relationships with women who are willing to abuse him.His need for pain stems from the brutal treatment he received as a child in state custody. He recalls the memory of Mr. Gracie, a paedophile caseworker who regularly raped him when he was aged twelve but also protected him from the other boys. Elliott explores the
psychology ofchild sexual abuse and physical abuse.ee also
*
List of books portraying paedophilia or sexual abuse of minors External links
* [http://www.stephenelliott.com/ Official website]
* [http://www.mcsweeneys.net/links/elliott/nytimes.html/ New York Times Review]
* [http://archive.salon.com/books/review/2004/04/15/elliott/index.html Salon.com Review]
* [http://www.mcsweeneys.net/links/elliott/elliott3.html Book Excerpt]
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