THE PRIZE WINNER OF DEFIANCE, OHIO

A touching story of determination, set in Middle America in the 1950s, reveals how one mother used her writing talent to support her large family's many needs. With 10 children to raise and little help from her alcoholic husband, Ryan's mother started entering marketing contests--the kind that asked for 25 words or less--and discovered she could win time and again. This talent and perseverance left an impression on one of her daughters, Terry, whose book is the basis for this loving audio remembrance. Ryan's ordinary reading quickly becomes a nonissue as the determination and faith of her heroine become the core of a story that most listeners will have trouble putting aside. T.W. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 03]