A breakthrough guide to healing trauma-driven disconnection, forming meaningful relationships, and feeling (at last) like you belong—from the creator of the Crappy Childhood Fairy healing method and YouTube channel.

Does it seem like no matter how hard you try to fit in, you don’t feel understood, or like you belong? Like it’s so easy for other people to get together and do ordinary things—but for you it feels so awkward and stressful that you avoid social situations. Or you go through the motions of a connected life, but you never really feel close to anyone, even though you don’t know why.

You’re not alone. An almost universal adult symptom of trauma from childhood is a feeling of disconnection, and it can lead to a lifetime of loneliness, broken relationships, and the feeling that life is passing you by. But Anna Runkle (aka the Crappy Childhood Fairy) is here to help! Step-by-step, she teaches you practical strategies for healing trauma-driven isolation and developing the social skills needed to break the unconscious habits that push others away–what she calls “covert avoidance.”

Through stories of her own, prompts for self-reflection, and daily connection plans, Anna guides you to:

• Overcome triggers that make you want to isolate
• Identify the role dysregulation plays in damaging connection
• Learn to trust your instincts, recognize red flags, and set boundaries
• Master the art of small talk, active listening, and "reading the room"
• Gradually build the warm and trusting relationships that everyone needs for a happy life

This book is for anyone who has struggled to form satisfying connections with others, offering a practical, impactful path to the rich life you truly want and deserve.