A leading memoir in childhood sexual abuse, drug addiction, sex work, and the long road to self-forgiveness and healing-offering a deeply human portrait of pain, survival, and grace. Dreams Are For The Dead is a raw, honest and deeply personal memoir by Author S. Elias W Sharp about surviving childhood abuse and finding a way out of addiction. Told with unflinching clarity and emotional truth, this book traces the author's journey through trauma, self-destruction, and ultimately, healing. This is a book about survival. With vivid scenes, painful memories, and moments of unexpected grace, Sharp invites readers into the silence he carried for years- and the words he finally found to break it. For anyone who's lived through darkness and wondered if change was possible, Dreams Are For The Dead is a powerful reminder: even the most damaged stories can still be told-and still be redeemed. Born and raised in the American South, Sharp's story unfolds in a world where silence was survival, and shame was stitched into the seams of everyday life. Through the pain of abuse and the isolating weight in a place that demanded conformity, Sharp learned early to disappear. What followed was a long descent into self-destruction: addiction, broken relationships, and the quiet belief that his life simply didn't matter. Through shattered moments and unexpected mercies, something began to shift. This memoir traces that transformation not as a clean arc, but as a series of raw, staggering steps. Sharp does not flinch. He does not sugarcoat. Instead, he brings the reader into every dark corner. What emerges is a story both harrowing and holy, filled with brutal truths and the radical act of choosing to speak them aloud. "The candor of this memoir is something that impresses me a great deal. This is a rare offering to the public and we are the beneficiaries of Elias's willingness to simply be transparent." - John Busbee, The Culture Buzz Podcast "Boldly vulnerable and emotionally riveting." - Elijah Hart, LGBTQ+ Advocate and Speaker, Atlanta, GA "A soul-deep reflection on identity, grief, and resilience. Heartbreaking and healing all at once." - Advance Reader Review Elias Sharp is an American author and speaker whose work explores resilience, identity, faith, power, and belonging. Writing with emotional clarity and honesty, Sharp's books bridge memoir, social analysis, and cultural commentary. Originally from the American South and now based in the Midwest, Elias is an active member of his local arts community and a passionate advocate for literature, LGBTQIA+ visibility, and civic engagement. His writing invites readers not only to confront the hard truths, but to imagine something braver beyond them. You can learn more about the author at www.seliaswsharp.com Responsible for the captivating cover photo of Dreams Are For The Dead, and author headshot on the reverse cover, Jonathan Garton is a portrait photographer known for capturing authentic, natural imagery that highlights personality and presence. Specializing in headshots of creative professionals, his work focuses on warmth, clarity, and storytelling through light and composition.