Running with Scissors

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The true story follows a boy whose mother, a poet with delusions of grandeur, gives him away to her psychiatrist, a Santa-like figure with questionable sanity. At twelve, Augusten Burroughs finds himself in a dilapidated Victorian filled with chaos. His new family includes bizarre characters, patients, and a pedophile living in the shed. In this environment, rules are nonexistent, school is absent, and Valium is consumed like candy. The Christmas tree remains up until summer, and when boredom strikes, there's always the vintage electroshock therapy machine nearby. The narrative is a mix of foul humor and harrowing experiences, capturing an ordinary boy's survival amid extraordinary circumstances. In the acknowledgments, gratitude is expressed to various individuals at St. Martin’s Press and others who contributed to the book’s creation. The author thanks his parents for a memorable childhood and the real-life family members portrayed for their acceptance. He acknowledges that their memories may differ from his own and emphasizes that the book was not intended to harm them. The author expresses regret for any unintended consequences from its publication and, most importantly, thanks his brother for exemplifying the value of being unique.