/24-7PressRelease/ - Orlando, FL, June 13, 2008 - When teacher-turned-author Miriam Rutland was diagnosed with breast cancer, it came as a serious blow. Not only because she knew she would be starting the fight of her life, literally, but because the thing she loved to do most—teach—might be compromised by the aggressive treatment. The months of radiation treatment and aggressive surgeries to save her life essentially sapped Rutland of nearly all her energy. But, after seeing her own mother battle the same kind cancer, she was determined to survive for the sake of her loved ones, students included. At the urging of her doctor, Rutland underwent a double mastectomy, reconstructive surgery, as well as a hysterectomy. And yet, ironically, it was her fight with cancer and her dramatic recovery that gave Rutland the strength to write the children's book she had been carefully crafting in her mind for years, Miss Pistachio's Big Day.
Published by Paul Mould Publishing Company in Lincolnshire, UK, the book tells the story of a loving, dedicated teacher named Miss Pistachio. Through her eyes, the reader "gets an idea of what it's like to be on the other side of the classroom" and realize that students aren't the only ones who eagerly anticipate the first day of school.
Says Rutland, "For years, parents asked me 'What can you possibly be doing for two weeks in your classroom before the students arrive?' I wanted people to know what dedication, love and passion teachers have for their students and their profession."
Miss Pistachio, though fictional, is herself a tribute to those in Rutland's life. The compilation of Rutland's own childhood teachers, as well as a few she's worked with, Miss Pistachio's character was based on Rutland's late grandmother, who was extremely influential in her life. Even the color of the dress holds significance as her husband's favorite color. And the name "Miss Pistachio"? The flavor of her father's favorite ice cream. All together, these elements, as well as Rutland's own love of teaching, create a colorful character that seems more alive than not.
Though it took Rutland seven years to see her dream fulfilled, Rutland feels blessed that she has been given so much. "My encounter with a life-threatening disease was an epiphany for me. I realized that the time was now", says Rutland. "I'm glad I didn't wait until I retired to do what was in my heart." Given the rave reviews by educators, parents, and children, countless more readers will no doubt agree.
Miss Pistachio's Big Day is written in English with a Spanish translation and is the first of three books that will be based on the Miss Pistachio character. A doll of the character, Miss Pistachio, is currently in development.
10% of book sales will be donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Affiliate.
Miriam Rutland is available for interviews, as well as complimentary book signings and book readings in the South Florida area. Interview and event requests can be directed to Ellen McLaughlin by calling 954-461-6141.
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About the Author
Miriam "Mimi" Rutland lives and teaches in South Florida. She is a third generation cancer survivor in her family. Despite her challenges, Rutland has an amazingly positive outlook and is thankful for the technology and preventative care that allowed her to fulfill her dream of authoring the first of several children's books. A pastor's wife, Rutland credits her faith and the support of friends, family, students, and the whole teaching community for making her recovery and her book possible. Most of all, Rutland is thankful for the future she will have with her two children, husband, and, of course, her students.
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