'The Turkey Farm Behind the Smile', by Cheryl Archer & Jennifer Keefe, is a lot of things packed into a small book. The main story being told here, is the autobiography of one of the co-authors, with the focus being on her childhood, the strange home life, the murder of her mother and a youth spent in an environment of drugs, decadence and abuse. This is all about sheer willpower, and the determination to grow up and have a full life, despite the odds. The facts behind this intense memoir, and the way the authors are able to put a human face on everyone involved, bad or good, is worth the price of admission. This incredible story, however, is made more interesting and complex, by putting it in the context of it's time and place. Cheryl Archer and Jennifer Keefe know the ups and downs of living in a small town in New Hampshire in the late 70's and early 80's, where everyone knew everyone else. Where the counter culture was still a big part of society, and drugs had become more pervasive since the late 1960's. This is very much about being alone, while surrounded by people you know. The very fact that the kids involved had access to family and friends, and yet were unable to talk to anyone, is one of the things that makes this an especially touching story. This is not just another true crime book, and it is more than just a memoir. This is a fast read, that will leave you emotionally drained, and feeling like you have been there to experience this life for yourself. ( )