The Dandelion Patch by MaryAnn Diorio, PhD
Guest post by MaryAnn Diorio:
“A children’s book on Eminent Domain? How interesting!”
Surprise at the topic of my latest children’s book, The Dandelion Patch, has been the most frequent reaction among readers. I attribute this surprise to the fact that, to my knowledge, no other children’s book has been written on this controversial topic. Hence, my treatment of it makes The Dandelion Patch a book which you may wish to share with the special children in your life.
How did you decide to write about Eminent Domain?
This question has also been a frequent one among readers. And understandably so. After all, Eminent Domain is not usually a topic of discussion around an adult dinner table let alone one that boasts the precious presence of little ones.
The answer to this question goes back to the 1950s when I was nine years old. My family had recently moved from Pennsylvania to New Jersey where my parents had purchased a home. A few months after settling in, we received a notice that the State had decided to build a major highway through our area and, quite likely, right through our house!
To say that I was worried and upset would be an understatement! What would become of our house? What would become of our family? And, most of all, what right did the State have to steal our property?
This last question troubled me the most. After all, we could find another house. My family would remain together. But stealing our property? I would not stand for that!
So, I began to pray. With childlike faith, I asked God to keep the State from stealing our house.
God answered my prayer. As it turned out, the highway was built about a quarter of a mile from our house. Far enough away to protect us, but close enough to serve as a constant reminder of the frightful reality that the government could seize one’s property.
Years later, when I started writing books for children, my experience with Eminent Domain surfaced again. From that experience emerged the feisty character of Yolanda Riggins, the proud owner of a dandelion patch that provides nourishing goodies for the children in her neighborhood.
Thank you so very much, Janice, for featuring me on your blog today. I appreciate this wonderful opportunity to interact with your readers.
Many blessings,
MaryAnn
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http://www.maryanndiorio.com
You are so very welcome. We appreciate your post about The Dandelion Patch.
Janice,
Thank you for inviting Mary Ann Diorio to tell us about The Dandelion Patch. It sounds like a very interesting book and it’s a topic I’ve never seen addressed in a children’s book. I look forward to reading it.
Esther Bandy
Mary Ann,
Thank you for sharing your inspiration for writing The Dandelion Patch. It sounds like your personal experience had a deep impact on your life. I look forward to reading The Dandelion Patch one day. May the Lord continue to bless you as you write for His glory.
Esther Bandy
It was a privilege to have MaryAnn Diorio to share with us about her unique book, The Dandelion Patch.
Thank you MaryAnn for writing about a topic few discuss!
How wonderful that you saw God answer your prayer at such a young age. Super blessing for you, and now, for many children.
May the Lord continue to bless your writing and ministry to children.
Thank you, KC, for your encouragement. I appreciate it very much. May our Lord bless you as you fulfill His great call to write for Him.
MaryAnn
We love having you as a guest on our blog, MaryAnn. This book sounds fascinating! Just when I thought there was nothing new to write about, you give us this gift. What a great way to teach children about life! God bless.
Thank you so very much, dear Crystal! I appreciate your kind words. Many blessings to you as well as you write for King Jesus!
Warmest regards,
MaryAnn