Читать книгу Dance, Belle, Dance! - Beth Huffman - Страница 4

Dance, Belle, Dance! is a fictional story. The names, characters and events are all products of my imagination. Any resemblance to actual people or events is coincidental. It’s also important to state this medical disclaimer. Nothing in this book is intended to take the place of professional advice. If you have concerns, please seek the assistance of a medical professional.

My three previous books are memoirs and I enjoyed writing them immensely. I never considered venturing into fiction, until I met and was inspired by my young friend, Annabel, who was born with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Together, we created Belle’s character that bears no resemblance to Annabel. While there is no correlation between the two, she was instrumental in helping me understand some of the struggles an individual goes through in living with the disorder. Without question, we could not have written this story without the enormous help and encouragement from Annabel’s parents and sister. Many thanks to each of you.

I love the cover of this book that was illustrated by my endearing daughter-in-law, Lacey Huffman. With a blank canvas, a brush and a palette of colors in hand, her artistry soared beyond my visions. She has poignantly captured Belle’s spirit and beauty. Thank you, Lacey. Should there be a sequel to this book, I appreciate knowing that you will be by my side.

I’d also like to thank my kind and patient friend, Elaine Mayberry, who said a year ago, “Sure! I’m in!” when I asked, “Would you consider being my sounding board if I try to write a fictional book and discover I don’t know how? It could involve a lengthy exchange of emails and a number of phone conversations where I whine about being lost.”

I was passionate about teaching middle school and high school language arts in the Cory-Rawson and Columbus Grove school systems. I loved and respected my students. I also respected my colleagues. In creating the elementary and middle school scenarios for this book, I asked myself what excellent teachers would do to help an underdog like Belle. These caring educators came to mind immediately: Jan Reichenbach, Joetta Rader, Joan Bauman, Jerrilyn Hughes, Jeanne Wert, Janet Schubert, Suzy Daley, Lisa Rigg, Deb Howe, Beth Fruchey and Vicki Hermiller.

Finally, I’d like to thank Beth Bishop and Herb Huffman. I met Beth in 1973 when she was teaching English and French at Cory-Rawson High School. Her former students would tell you that she was an inspirational teacher. She was also my inspirational mentor and will always be my dear friend. Then there is Herb Huffman who retired from the Ottawa-Glandorf school system after 35 years of devotion to his students. I’ve been married to this humble man for 42 years and he continues to beat me at Jeopardy every night.

Beth Ann Huffman

June 10, 2015