What Happened to You?
What Happened to You?
Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey · first published 2021 · ISBN 9781250223210
Perry, a neuroscientist who has spent his career treating traumatized children, shifts the question from 'What's wrong with you?' to 'What happened to you?' The book weaves neuroscience about how adverse experiences rewire young brains with Oprah's own stories of childhood harm and recovery. It shows how trauma changes development and what adults can do to help kids heal.
On our lists
The Best Books About Child Development
This book takes attachment theory into the real world of childhood adversity. It's essential for understanding why some kids act out, shut down, or struggle in school, and how to respond without making things worse. Teachers and school psychologists need this lens.