Too often in today’s headlines we read about another case of child abuse in the United States. Local resident Sandy Lofland-Brown along with her son, Luther Lofland Jr., have co-authored a book, “Linus Teaches Safety at School,” that deals with the subject and it is proving to be a hit with educators, parents and children.
Sandy, who taught child abuse prevention for 30 years and is a retired social worker, always wanted to write a book about the issue. One day, while admiring her son’s dog Linus, she decided to use him as the focal point of the book.
Linus was an abused animal whose previous owners abandoned him after he broke his back. The dachshund was in a wheelchair in the animal shelter. When Luther saw Linus it was instant love and he decided to give the dog a forever home. He is now the storyteller in the duo’s book.
Sandy saw the dog as a way to get children to relate to the book and child abuse safety. She said Linus, as a victim of abuse, is a good example for children to understand the issue. She said it is important for children to see Linus is a real pet and was a victim of abuse. In the book Linus teaches about 15 safety rules for children.
Lofland, who retired from Carmel High School as a special education and learning disabilities teacher, agreed to help his mother write the book because he too is aware of the increasing problem of child abuse.
“Luther saw so many children who were victims of child abuse,” Sandy said. “He noted that these children were still suffering many years after being abused.”
“I have always said that the child abuser gets a slap on the wrist while the children get life to deal with the abuse,” Sandy continued.
Sandy said the book was originally written for educators to use in schools. However, she has had a good response from parents and children.
“I had parents telling me they wanted a copy of the book to use in their homes,” Sandy said. “It seems everyone knows that childhood safety is a real problem today. Sex trafficking and sexual abuse seems to be on the rise and we want our children to understand they need to be aware and also what to do when confronted.”
The book, which retails for $14.95, was published by Christian Faith Publishing. It is being marketed worldwide and can be found on all online book distributors. The book also can be purchased at the local downtown bookstore, In His Time. Sandy also has copies available. She may be reached at 765-918-6045.
A book signing at the Crawfordsville District Public Library is being planned.
