"The opening in the chain link fence near the railroad tracks is exactly big enough to crawl through. Wooden trolley tracks in the wide open fields invite walking. A thrill of pleasure from the sunny summer warmth and the wild grass and flowering weeds between the tracks and the happiness of privacy and the great freedom propel me easily down the ladder-like path. For some mysterious reason I am living with strangers. There are other little children in the household, so playing makes each long day heady with intense emotion... but now there is joyous isolation, solitary freedom." (Chapter One opening)In charming narrative, Naomi Lavori tells of her early life and the perplexing relationship with her flamboyant and eccentric mother. Somehow, understanding and acceptance are gained in the final years of her mother's life. When at last we share the secrets kept hidden deep within ourselves, we are able to embrace our unique journeys with compassion and appreciation.