In the July Author Spotlight,
Gail Joseph Owen,
Author of
Tara and the Place of Irish Kings

In 2001, author Gail Joseph Owen lost her daughter Tara to cystic fibrosis. After her death, Gail unlocked Tara’s world as she went through her daughter’s diaries, journals, and short stories. In her new book, Tara and the Place of Irish Kings, Gail gives us an account of a life filled with perseverance, hope, love, and the desire to live life to its fullest.

Gail's daughter Tara was born with cystic fibrosis (CF). A beautiful young woman, she fought courageously to live life on her own terms. She continued to fight for over 28 years, until a tragic error brought her battle to an end. "The book is not about Tara’s death," Gail says, "It’s about her life. Tara was smart, beautiful, and full of love with so much to live for. She had every reason to have an understandably lousy attitude but her story will fill you with hope and a sense of purpose."

Facets of her life are included in this story where wisdom nuggets permeate. With such love for family and a fondness for a farm she called, "The place fit for Irish kings," this story is a celebration of Tara's life and the people that meant the most to her. "The reality of the illness she bravely battled will be part of the story. How else could her story be told?" explains Gail. "We'll take the journey with Tara from birth until her death. And in the space of her life, we'll learn what it means to love and to triumph through adversity, regardless. Twenty-eight years may not be long for many, but when one has inside them the heart of kings, great times and a life of love and being loved will somehow encompass you."

Tara had dreamed of writing a book about her life and experience living with cystic fibrosis, but died before she could fulfill her dream. Tara’s story was written instead by her mother with the skillful aid of Vanessa Davis Griggs.  Tara’s journal entries outlined the motivation and purpose of this exceptional story of courage; on one occasion, Tara wrote, “My life story will help others better understand the life and challenges of  the terminally ill and those seriously sick.” This young daughter reaffirmed her intent to write her life story and her book’s purpose, with few hours of life remaining, the last words spoken by Tara to her mother were “Don’t let them forget about us.”

The completion of Tara’s story is a testimony of a mother’s commitment and fulfillment of her daughter’s last request--remember us. "This book, after almost six years, is finished as you have it here," Gail says.

Born in Alabama and raised in a small sawmill community, Gail graduated from Auburn University majoring in history and education. She is the mother of two daughters, Townley Tess and Tara Sherron. In the late 1980’s, she started a local real estate agency and continues today as its owner and broker. When not working, she enjoys gardening and caring for her grand daughters. When asked if she plans to write another book, Gail responds, "I was blessed with Tara and she became my life.  There is not another story like Tara's story in me. No, there will not be another book."