The Silver Lining: The Intersection of Sexual Assault and Anxiety Through the World of Gymnastics explores the intricacies of the silver medal, the silver between the black and white of life, and best of all, the silver lining. In this book, author Serena Pergola shares stories of trauma and challenges and explains how she leveraged a daunting mental health journey, a solid foundation in her support systems, and unexpected optimism to become stronger than ever before.

Discover how the culture of gymnastics influenced her experiences both inside and outside of the gym and hear stories of people as high profile as Aly Raisman, to an anonymous Larry Nassar survivor, and one much closer to home - Serena’s friend Brooke.

Serena is sharing her story with the world to inspire others to share their stories and to build a community of support and empowerment. By welcoming you into her most intimate stories and inviting you to follow her on her journey of discovering her silver lining, she hopes that you can find your silver lining, too.

Serena Pergola is a University of Michigan alumni, and she is currently pursuing a career in nursing. She is a passionate former gymnast of 15 years, and she is constantly exploring the world of mental health awareness and sexual assault awareness and prevention in her personal life. In her first book The Silver Lining, she is channeling her passion that drives her to empower others.