Just Pick Up The Pieces
by Barbara Courtney Thomas

Just Pick Up The Pieces, Barbara Courtney Thomas’ recently published autobiographical novel, is now available. Books can be ordered from her for $24 including postage and handling. (Address: 930 Bear Point, Chapin, SC 29036 – Phone # 803-345-8336)

Barbara and her younger sister, Joy, entered Epworth in 1948. The novel covers the two years leading up to their placement. While the majority of the book is set in the girls’ hometown of St. Augustine, Florida, the final chapters describe their first several months at Epworth. The story not only reveals how differently Barbara and Joy react to the tragedies and blows dealt them in their young lives, but it is a testimony to the secure, stable environment that Epworth provided.

Barbara remained at Epworth until her high school graduation in 1953. She received her BA degree in elementary education from Columbia College and her master’s degree from USC. She is now retired after a thirty-year teaching career. She and husband Norman live on Lake Murray near Chapin.

Joy left Epworth after her junior year in high school and graduated from King’s Business College in Charlotte. She is retired from a career in advertising and marketing and lives in Monroe, NC.