Out of Respect

Dive into the heartrending true story of a young girl's struggle for survival in the neighborhoods of South Philly. "Out of Respect" unveils the hidden tears behind the smiles, a life entangled in the web of secrets she guards zealously to protect her beloved father and herself. Raised under the shadow of a narcissistic mother's physical and mental torment, she learns resilience in the face of adversity, guided by her father's wisdom to harness the strength of her mind while preserving the grace of her femininity. This poignant narrative is where "A Bronx Tale" converges with "Mommy Dearest," offering an intimate glimpse into the harrowing journey of abuse, trauma, and the indomitable spirit of a young woman. 

Endorsement & Testimonial: 

"Denise De Stefano’s "Out of Respect" is a compelling memoir written in a straightforward, engaging, and riveting style. De Stefano details the extreme abuse she endured as a child and young teen at the hands of her mentally ill mother, and how the abiding love of her father, together with her deep religious faith, sustained her.  Born and raised in South Philadelphia, the author presents many traumatic events she experienced as she grew into adulthood. Nevertheless, De Stefano makes it clear that her strong will and her deep faith in God prevented her from having the mentality of a victim. She recounts her life journey with depictions of relationships with many people. One particularly moving example is her poignant relationship with a caring teacher, who taught in De Stefano’s Catholic grade school. De Stefano traveled far from her South Philadelphia neighborhood, yet she never forgot her roots nor the important life lessons she learned from her beloved father. She became an educated woman, a nurse, a businesswoman, an entrepreneur, and a self-actualized person. Denise De Stefano, through her book, demonstrates in vivid language the power of spirituality, resilience, and redemption, which ultimately led to her triumph over adversity."
~ Maria Famà, South Philadelphia, PA
Poet and educator: Author of  The Good for the Good and other books of poetry

"I could not put this book down. It feels like you are sitting across the table having an intense, sometimes tragic sometimes funny conversation with Denise. She absolutely captures life in South Philly during the 60’s and 70’s. Gangsters, priests, nuns, cheesesteaks, water ice, this book has it all. How this young girl survived her abusive childhood and found sanctuary in the hands of local gangsters and the church is remarkable."
~ Scott Soloman

"Read Denise's book in one sitting. Couldn't put it down. Excellent perspective on the effects of your silence. Best seller list. A must read. God bless."
~ Marianne Iannone-Tropiano, RN BSN MHA, Laurel Springs, NJ

Are you searching for a glimmer of hope in the shadows of your own past secrets? Within the pages of “Out of Respect,” Denise De Stefano shares with you her powerful journey from the darkness of unspeakable childhood abuse at the hands of her violent, narcissistic mother, to the healing light of redemption.

It is told by the voice of a child who become a savvy woman growing up in South Philly with all its colorful culture. The book teaches us a new perspective, on the word “respect.”

De Stefano’s recovery, recollections, and authentic storytelling are a gift to us all. Through her story, written in first person, anyone can find their own truths revealed.

De Stefano was taught street smarts by her father and his friends. She learned how to think like a man in order to survive, but never to forget that she was a lady.

These skills and her relentless perseverance took her through many traumatic life-threatening events, demonstrated in vivid language. The power of resilience ultimately led Denise to triumph over adversity.

De Stefano's life took her from Philly to New York City, Malibu, Hollywood, and abroad. She lives her truth through the power of faith that one can overcome the past.