ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. A.G. Marra is a pen name that disguises the real author and all those who have shared their stories with her. As was stated in her introduction To the Reader, Alexandra Grace Marra, the main character is an amalgamation of women who have experienced violence and abuse at the hands of loved ones. She reminds her readers that because of the sensitive nature of the content, she has protected the names of family members, friends and associates by assigning them fictitious names and places while keeping the events and experiences of those she represents as true. Their stories are authentic and taken from their real and painful lives.

The author behind Dr. A.G. Marra’s pen name had a passion for writing that was borne out of desperation. She found solace when she would put her pen to words. At first, it was a way for her to escape from the world in which she was born; a small, claustrophobic, dark and angry environment. Her peace came when she was able to express herself in writing. Throughout her life, she maintained personal journals where she would talk about her feelings, her thoughts, and her worries. Many of those thoughts and recordings are presented here along with the stories of other women whom she met along the way and confided in her.

The personal story of the author’s career as an advocate for children and adolescents with disabilities is authentically presented in the book. She taught at all levels of education, from pre-school to graduate school, and conducted numerous seminars and lectures for teachers and parents that addressed the needs of children and adolescents with disabilities.