Richard Anthony D'Ambrosio

I read this too many decades ago to give it a proper review, but the fact that it still moves me when I think of how affecting it is speaks volumes to its quiet power. The subject matter, as we learn more details, is a look at darkness nearly unimaginable to most human beings with an once of compassion. It is nearly a miracle recorded on paper; a miracle of kindness and perseverance and hope; a miracle of light overcoming darkness; a miracle of goodness overcoming evil; and a miracle of hope show more overcoming despair and trauma so horrific, success did not seem possible. I don't recall it being weighted down by medical terms or psychology, but geared more towards the average person. I may in fact have been a teenager when I read this, it's been so long ago. No Language But a Cry, if you can find it today, is a testamant to the human spirit, and a reminder to never give up on a person, no matter how bleak their prospect of recovery. It is a book about love and kindness and the dedication of one man trying to help against all odds. Even all these years later, I highly recommend it. show less

The child called Laura was the worst case Dr. Richard D’Ambrosio had ever encountered. As a toddler, she had been held in a frying pan and horribly burned. Now she was twelve, labeled schizophrenic, and housed in a gloomy institution run by Catholic nuns. Scarred physically and emotionally, she had never spoken a word. But the Sisters believed she would speak—if they could find someone to unlock the terrifying memories that kept her mute.
That person was Dr. D’Ambrosio. Here, in an show more unforgettable story of professional skill and human courage, he records his rescue of that one little girl. No Language But a Cry has transcended its status as immensely interesting case history to become an incomparable testament to the awesome power of faith and love. show less

Wonderful book about what can happen if people are willing to try. The patience of those working with Laura was inspiring. The nuns really make the story, and he parts describing them were my favourites.

This is one of those books that influenced my decision to commit my working life to helping others.