Beyond the headlines
Love, loss, and
understanding.
When Tom Carman encountered the case of Jean Stevens in Wyalusing, Pennsylvania, he could not initially understand her decision. Jean had brought the bodies of her late husband James—known as Jimmy—and her twin sister June into her home, unwilling to accept the distance death had placed between them.
The investigation changed Tom’s life, professionally and personally. He and Jean learned from each other, developing a long-term friendship that brought new perspectives on hope and acceptance. Jean encouraged Tom to write about her life.
This true story asks how intense loneliness and the permanence of separation can lead someone to do things they would never otherwise consider. How far would you go to remain with the ones you love?
Combining true crime with spiritual reflection and some self-help elements, My Illusion of Normal considers the judgments we make—and what we might learn by looking more closely. It is Part One of Tom’s planned trilogy.
