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.