“What should I put in my ‘Preface’?” my client asked. I encouraged her to introduce herself, since it’s the first part of the book the reader will read. It should not be a formal introduction (there’s an “About the Author” page later). Rather, I asked her to simply begin a conversation, one that invites the reader in. It’s important to let the reader know WHY you wrote this book and what you most hope they get out of it, recognizing it’s their investment of time and attention.
“Let them know they can trust you,” I said. “Be brave.”
Here’s Pat Grenelle’s “hello” —that is, her PREFACE to her powerful memoir, We Were a Nice, Normal Family. (Release: Dec 2025) 
“I wrote this book for anyone who’s ever struggled in their relationships and couldn’t quite understand why. If you’ve lived through childhood sexual abuse and found yourself repeating painful patterns in adulthood—especially in the way you relate to others—I want you to know you’re not alone.
I have done extensive research and learned some shocking statistics. Indeed, there are more people with similar childhood trauma than most would imagine. In this book, I include these findings, psychological insights, and practical resources to support your healing journey. But I soon realized that wasn’t enough. I needed the courage to do what I’d never done before—to share my own story, so that you might find resonance and hope. As you read, you’ll begin to recognize the symptoms of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). Through your own reflections, I believe this awareness can bring a sense of relief, clarity, and healing.
This book is also a tribute to my sister. She was just seventeen months older than me and suffered deeply from the childhood trauma we endured. Her pain was profound, and much of this story belongs to her, too. I carry her with me in every word.
By sharing these difficult memories, I hope others who’ve faced similar experiences will feel seen and validated—and will recognize the long-term effects that childhood sexual trauma can have on every part of a person’s life. Even if this story isn’t your own, perhaps someone close to you—a spouse, sister, or friend—will find comfort and healing simply by being understood. I also hope this work becomes a call to action: that readers feel moved to stand up speak out, and support the organizations working to prevent child sexual abuse and to help survivors rebuild. Together, we can bring awareness—and real change.”
—Patricia A. Grenelle, PsyD
MY CHALLENGE TO YOU (Yes, YOU)…
Write a “PREFACE” to the book that is inside you. Simply ask yourself who is the one person you most want to share something with, and why do you want to share it. That gives you your target reader and your message intention. That may be just the first step you need to write your book (we’d love to read your story!).
Want to Ask about Writing a Book or Getting Published? Ask Barbara Dee
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