For Shawn A. Brown growing up in a world where being yourself meant constant persecution or potentially losing those closest to you, writing Scarred was a true “finally able to bre...view moreFor Shawn A. Brown growing up in a world where being yourself meant constant persecution or potentially losing those closest to you, writing Scarred was a true “finally able to breathe” moment for him. Growing up in Hartford County in the somewhat small town of Wethersfield, CT. "where everyone knows everyone", he'd longed for the day when a story could be told that highlighted the similarities of a homosexual relationship to a heterosexual relationship. The many adversities that fall on to members of the LGBTQ+ community aren't always given the attention it deserves and living as a homosexual isn't as carefree and fabulous as some people believe or others may portray. Being aknowledged for his writing skills throughout his school career, encouraged him to see that not only was writing his strongest passion but he could focus on something that he truly enjoyed for the rest of my life, hoping others would hear his voice through his words and find their voice within. Overcoming teenage angst and prejudgments from peers helped him understand what it's like to be different, and that different can be a positive in life.view less