East LA to Encino is a gripping story about a woman who grew up in a family habituated to financial hardship, dysfunction, and abuse. Each member plays the role of either a punisher or a victim.

Specious pride and the family mantra of “don’t tell the neighbors” ensures the perpetuation of the sick game and entrapment of the players. But remarkably, the protagonist escapes the trap and unabashedly breaks the “don’t tell” rule by airing the family’s dirty laundry in her book.

In all its horror, the story is written in a style that compels the reader to keep reading, hoping for a happy ending to all the turmoil.

The ending is satisfying. The reader is left with the message that no matter the circumstances, one has the free choice to live life without persecution.

Behind Closed Doors

Domestic violence is not talked about enough in our society, leaving many victims to fend for themselves.

The book East LA to Encino, by McPatti Langston, sheds light on the horrors occurring behind many closed doors and why some families are compelled to silence.

Finally, someone is talking about it.

The book will empower victims of abuse and enlighten those who can’t fathom such atrocities.

Interview with the Author

After reading the book, I was intrigued. So, I interviewed the author, and here is what McPatti Langston had to say:

What inspired you to write East LA to Encino?

I felt like almost everyone has some trauma or abuse when it comes to family and that we all try to hide it. I wrote this to say, “Hey it’s okay to have scary family members we all do!” I think it’s crazy that people try to keep this ‘in the family. That is how the cycle of abuse continues. I intended to show with this story that there is a way to break that cycle, to escape for yourself, and no matter how bad they make you feel- it is ultimately about what is best for you.

Domestic abuse is not talked about enough in our society, leaving too many quietly suffering. How can communities be more helpful to the victims?

It is a hidden problem. What worked for me was finding a group of friends who believed what I had to say, and sometimes that was 12-step support groups. These issues are so hidden behind closed doors that people do not know how to address domestic violence as a society. The first step everyone needs to take is to educate ourselves on abuse and its signs.

Your book reflects an intuitive insight into domestic abuse. What advice would you give to victims?

Once the abuse starts, document everything -take pictures, file reports, and let people know that you feel as if you are in danger. Reach out to those who do not know your abuser and avoid people who may talk to them about you. Have an escape plan. You never know when they’ll explode, so you must be prepared to leave.

What do you suggest for those who suspect abuse in another family but have no idea how to approach the subject?

Bring up someone else’s story that you may suspect is similar to theirs. Depending on their reaction, you should have your answer. If you want to be less obvious, check in on them regularly and emphasize that you are always there for them no matter what. These situations can be delicate for everyone, so you need to ensure they know they are there for you and you are safe.

Do you have plans to write another book?

Currently, I am focusing on promoting this project, East LA to Encino, across as many mediums as possible and don’t have current plans for another book.

You can get LA to Encino on Amazon.

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