Vitaly’s memoir is a gripping coming-of-age story about surviving the odds and reclaiming identity. Set in post-Soviet Ukraine, this emotional non-fiction book follows one orphan’s path from abandonment and foster care to self-acceptance and belonging.
Divided into three parts, this real-life LGBTQ+ story explores themes of childhood trauma, resilience, self-worth, and queer identity in an unaccepting world. From harrowing orphanage memories to healing moments of cultural reflection and personal growth — every chapter in this memoir builds toward one message: your past doesn’t define your future.
If you’re looking for the best LGBTQ memoir, a foster care story, or an inspirational book about overcoming adversity — this is the table of contents that sets the stage.