Stray Cat People

In the 1900s rural South, Padraig, an Irish doctor, and Miss Nativity, a rural schoolmarm, are at the center of a tale about the consequences of pigeonholing people. Although Miss Nativity is comely, her skills and tenacity are revealed as she maintains order in her classroom and consistently puts the children's learning first. Padraig strives to fix folks, not only medically, but also emotionally. His attraction to Miss Nativity introduces them to rounders, bullies, local patriarchs, gossips, snakes, and a host of broken folks, including some of the town's children. Their journey of teaching and healing is dotted with boxing matches, arm pulls, foot races, rumors, and delicious pranks. Author Jack O'Reilly is inspired by people who have open hearts and open minds. After college, he taught English and coached basketball. Later, he earned his Master's Degree from Central Michigan University and his doctoral degree from Arizona State University. Afterward he served as a school administrator and associate professor. O'Reilly has always been fascinated with the art of storytelling. He grew up in Michigan and now lives in Conway, Arkansas.