Helen Jackson, a first-time teacher, was filled with excitement as she prepared for her new job at a small schoolhouse on the outskirts of New York City. However, the night before her first day, disaster struck: A lightning bolt ignited the building and it burned to the ground. Thankfully, no one was injured. With the school gone, Helen had to reconsider her plans for teaching. She decided to venture out west in search of eager students who shared her passion for learning.

I was born in England, but have lived in Southern California for many years. I m now retired and live in the Pacific NW in a little seaside city amongst the giant redwoods and wonderful harbor, almost at the Oregon border. My husband and I have one cat, called Midnight and she is featured in two of my latest Sci-Fi short stories. I love Science Fiction, animals, and trying to help others. I publish under Doreen Milstead as well as my own name. My photo was taken right before the coronation of QE II in the UK.