Book- Seeing Through the Cracks

Seeing Through the Cracks

A True Story

Written by Elaine Uskoski

How much time is too much for playing video games?

Everyone knows the rules of growing up. Once you’re eighteen things become clearer, childhood problems melt away, and you’re ready to go out and conquer the world. You’re now an adult. You can look your parents in the eye as equals. Officially, you’re on your own, and now you’ll only look back fondly at what you once were, an immature child still learning about life.

Or so you’d think.

Jake is a young adult who grew up with the support of his family, especially his mother, Elaine. Though he experienced some rough patches as a child and fitting in was a constant challenge, she’s been there for him. But it’s time for Jake to “grow up” and for him, that means no longer needing his family.

It turns out that life is a far greater struggle than he ever imagined. Jake soon discovers that his chosen coping skills through this challenging part of growing up creates an even bigger issue – an addiction to video gaming.

Living independently is hard, but admitting it is even harder.

Join this true story of conflict and heart-pounding moments, as both mother and son explore the concept of parenting as a lifelong commitment, and finding your way through addiction takes a family of support.

This book is available at Amazon.ca  and .com in Paperback and Kindle formats.

Paperback: 257 pages

Cadillac FairviewIn 2018 Cadillac Fairview partnered with the Olympics and their campaign theme was “Against All Odds”. They selected a short book list from Wattpad writers whose stories of adversity fit their theme. Seeing Through the Cracks was chosen.

Against All Odds Book List

In a world where the only certainty is uncertainty, Elaine offers a light post that helps lead each of us along a parenting path that transcends all categories and stereotypes. Reading her story is like sitting down with a good friend over a cup of coffee, initiating a necessary conversation between parents that fosters understanding and compassion
Dave C, USA

Father

When I reached the end of the book I almost cried…I never wanted this book to end. It’s a guide for us children too and the story is really inspiring. Please write book 2.
D. Chakroborty, India

Student

I am sitting in a Starbucks reading this last chapter with tears flowing down my face. I am beyond words feeling so much emotion. I cannot imagine your pain yet in some odd way, I can relate. I am beyond grateful for your bravery Elaine. This is a great support for so many and some don’t even know it yet.
Sheralyn Roman, Caledon

Writer

You and your book were pivotal to the change in the relationship between my son and me! Please don’t underestimate the strength of your own story. We are out there with no one to turn to and nowhere to go. What do we do? How do we parent what we don’t understand? You really, really helped me and stopped me from letting my son go solo when I knew he wasn’t ready. He is safe and still learning and I’m still mum. There are no words to describe your empowerment when I thought all was lost.                    
Janet Orr, Scotland

Mother

In “Seeing Through the Cracks” Elaine shares her often turbulent journey through motherhood.   Through her candid prose, we learn the importance of staying plugged-in to our adult children’s lives – no matter how independent they might seem.  Elaine’s emotional story gives us hope that brutal honesty, steely determination and unconditional love can always lead us through the darkest of times.
Erin Woodley, Canada

Beta Reader