Dumb Girl

A Journey from Childhood Abuse to Gun Control Advocacy

By: Heidi Yewman

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Paperback | 19 August 2025

At a Glance

Paperback
296 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
21.59 x 13.97 x 2.54

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For fans of Jeannette Walls, Jodi Picoult, and Alice Sebold, a heartening memoir about a girl who survives abuse and molestation to become a powerful advocate against gun violence in America.

The inspiring memoir of a woman who overcomes the physical, emotional, and sexual abuse of her early life to blossom into a gun violence prevention activist.

Growing up in a toxic, male-centered household where she’s repeatedly told, “Don’t be a dumb girl,” Heidi’s abused by her dad—starting with a punch in the face at five years old—and left to fend for herself by her alcoholic mom, who neglects to protect her from either her violent father or her brother who molests her. For years, Heidi’s traumatized and without a voice.

Then comes Columbine. Thirteen years after Heidi graduates from Columbine High, this horrific school shooting rocks the nation—and gives her a sudden sense of purpose. Despite her childhood wounds, or perhaps even because of them, she becomes determined to stop gun violence. Gradually, she finds her voice: organizing vigils and protests, joining the Brady Campaign Board to battle the NRA, and eventually writing a book and directing a documentary about the after-effects of gun violence. In doing so, she finds her inner strength and resolve and overcomes her fear of conflict—and learns that when you frame it the right way, even being “dumb” can be a superpower.

Industry Reviews

“Yewman’s beautifully written memoir intertwines her journey to stop gun violence with her path to healing from a turbulent childhood marked by verbal, physical, and sexual abuse. Through her mission to stand up against gun violence, she reclaims her power and transforms her pain into empathy and strength.”—Jane Epstein, author of I Feel Real Guilty: A Memoir of Sibling Sexual Abuse

“A compelling and enduring book because of the author's openness and vulnerability in her narration. I highly recommend it to readers who value powerful memoirs that delve into complex themes of identity, resilience, social justice, and the power of personal transformation.”—Readers’ Favorite, FIVE STARS

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