Chasing Tarzan

In the 1960s, a relentless school bully makes Catherine's life a living hell. She retreats inward, relying on a rich fantasy life--swinging through the jungle wrapped in Tarzan's protective arms--and fervent prayers to a God she does not trust. She fasts until she feels faint, she ties a rough rope around her waist as penance, hoping God will see her worthy of His help.

As the second of eight children, Catherine is Mommy's little helper, and like Mommy, Catherine is overwhelmed. The bullying...