October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. This includes a range of behaviors (e.g. slapping, shoving, pushing) and in some cases might not be considered “domestic violence.” Domestic Violence is not limited to physical violence; it can be verbal, sexual, and emotional. That’s why this year’s DVAM theme is #Every1KnowsSome1. We hope to raise awareness nationwide.

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, The Second Step staff has compiled a list of some of our favorite books that have helped us strengthen our understanding of domestic violence and its impacts.