Why this story?
This story really found me. When hanging out at the library waiting for my son to finish school research, I noticed a book almost falling from the shelf.  

 When I pushed it back into line, the titled caught my attention.  I pulled it out, and read four individual stories about women who persevered during great challenges. Two of  women came alive wanting to tell their whole story of friendship and courage. Within days, my principal handed me an application for a National Endowment for the Humanities Grant.  Immediately I knew the path to learn more.  I received one of three awarded that year for independent study.   Grateful for the opportunity to finally write that true Historical Fiction.                 TY! Monmouth County, Public Library NJ  (Shewsbury Branch)