True North - the Shocking Truth about Yours, Mine and Ours

Book excerpt: Tom North is one of the eight North children, who together with the ten Beardsley children, became the family which was featured in the 1968 film, 'Yours, Mine and Ours' starring Lucille Ball and Henry Fonda ... But, it wasn't one big happy family as the movie depicted. The stepfather's violence and abuse created a life of intimidation, turmoil, fear and depression for the North children. All hope seemed lost as Tom realized that he was caught in a prison and there was no way out. When he finally left home, he traveled on a journey of self-discovery, survival and healing. Years later, Tom miraculously led the family to counseling sessions where shocking truths were revealed. He then came full circle as he reclaimed his father's name and was finally, True North.