Dedication

by Ruth Brown

          The poets in this book are all related to Clara Hook. Dollie Brown is the daughter of Clara, Sandi Brown and Ruth Brown are the daughters of Dollie Brown. In an effort to familiarize the reader with the life and times of each poet, a short paragraph on each of the women involved is included here.
          Clara Hook, born in 1887, was a proud, yet simple lady of her times. She was deeply religious, and felt that each step of her life was being directed and motivated by a Power far above that of any mortal being. Her poems reflect this, as well as her sensitivity and humor, in the epic literary style of the years in which she lived. She died, rather obscurely, in 1936, in an asylum.
          Dollie Brown, born in 1911, is a rollicking, fun-loving senior citizen, old enough to know better, but young enough at heart to enjoy life as she now finds it. Her lif's shadows have fallen on many diverse, and often painful pathways. As seen in her contributions, she still maintains a sense of humor, beauty, and propriety -- albeit sometimes slightly misconstrued. Dollie lives quietly, with her 2 children in Richwood, Ohio.
          Sandi Brown, born in 1942, died in 1982, was a whirlwind in a milk bottle. She was vibrant, uncontrolled, looking at the world agog. Though her life was relatively short, she left behind many memories, and poetry that may be equalled, but never duplicated.
          Ruth is alive and well, working every day, playing every night at the games that make her happy. She enjoys her work and home life, and still finds time, occasionally, to pen a line or two. Her poetry reflects the times in her life that were less kind to her than the quiet, peaceful, productive era that she now enjoys.

WEBMASTER'S NOTE: Dollie died on August 31, 1995 at the home of her son Carroll.