Calico Families (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780882891187)

"Ann Martin writes with tender and deep understanding of an ever-widening circle of kindred souls. She
brings a new perspective and reassurance to those who have never been a part of
such a family, leading us toward a sensitive appreciation of attendant
problems. Surely she has helped those of us who work for world peace and
harmony to see ourselves as members of a planetary ' Calico
Family .'"
Dr. Helen K. Billings

Pelican announces the re-release of Calico Families, by Ann
Bodenhamer Martin. Divided families, rent asunder by human frailties and
foibles, and the universal need for acceptance form the common denominator for
these poetic insights into the tenuous relationships of mankind.
With a deft touch and a sensitive eye that obviously derive from personal
experience, Ms. Martin explores the doubts, the despair, the fears, and the
hope that color the calico patchwork in the fabric of contemporary society.

Divorce, disease, separation, and death--the devastating forces that
shatter personal bonds and imperil the human spirit--are treated with special
insight in this mosaic of exposed feelings and emotions. Step by step and piece
by piece, like calico, shattered lives can be rebuilt through reassurance,
respect, understanding, and love.
Calico Families contains poetry especially written for
"healing." Local media personalities may recognize gentle tributes to
those who helped the author recover.