Every society has those who do not quite fit in. But there are some that we try our best to
actively ignore, unless they cause some blatant disruption to our lives. Who notices the hoarder, closed
up in their homes, until ordered to vacate due to fire hazard? Who cares that an arsonist, once
convicted, is sent to a prison rather than psychiatric care? Who bothers to see the homeless, sleeping
under awnings because they don't believe they are safe elsewhere?
In this collection of short stories, Dr. Lawrence Matrick draws our attention to those fringe
members of society who suffer from character disorders, some to the point they are shunned by all but
their closest relations. Through the fictional stories of those such as Gilbert, the arsonist, or Elsa, the
Munchhausen patient, experience the trials they, their families, and their communities undergo due to
their mental distress.
After each tale, you have the opportunity to learn the psychiatric facts of each condition and the
recourses available from a professional psychiatrist, Dr. Lawrence E. Matrick. Join him in raising
awareness of those living with character disorders in our communities, for even they need someone to
care-and someone to love.
