Super Short Summary

Etched in Sand by Regina Calcaterra is a memoir about the author's extremely abusive childhood and the resilience she and her four siblings demonstrated to survive and eventually succeed. Raised by their neglectful, mentally ill mother, the siblings faced homelessness, hunger, and violence on Long Island, New York. Despite these challenges, Regina becomes a successful lawyer and government official, motivated by her experiences to help others in similarly unjust situations. Themes of resilience, abuse, and the drive to help others permeate the narrative. Sensitive topics include child abuse, neglect, and addiction.