From Paris I Came

From Paris I Came tells the story of Rosalie Lancaster, the third daughter born to an impoverished Canadian farm family, badly in need of a strong son. Her life begins during the Great Depression. She experiences rejection at home and discrimination in the larger world because she is a French-speaking country girl, from a minority community, living in the middle of English-speaking Ontario.

Her life is changed by the benevolent actions of a mentor--her maternal grandmother. Rosalie's self confidence is unlocked through dance; later after theatrical success when she portrays Joan of Arc and wins a best actress award.

She is prevented from attending secondary school by a parent who believes that educating women is a waste of time. Undaunted, Rosalie begins work at the age of fourteen in the world of adults. She marries and has four children and they represent her crowning achievement.

Rosalie survives a marriage that is both loving and abusive. She ultimately returns to school in mid-life and graduates from highschool--proving her naysayers wrong. She ultimately becomes the main breadwinner and the stabilizing force that contributes to her childrens' success.

She is now ninety years of age and an inspiration for anyone who takes the time to read her story.