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| 'Sheltered In His Arms' was a fantastic read. Being a child of the 70's I found your book to be a far better teacher than any history book. Not only did I learn about the era and the struggles, but I learned it through the eyes of a child and woman who had faith despite the hardship and never forgot that family is the most important thing. Well done. Best, Tracy R. Sheppard Nashville, TN ---------------------------------------------- I have been reading the book too, couldn't put it down last night until 2am when I made myself put it down. It almost reads like a movie, I can imagine the scenes and in most books that's not as easy to do. It has been wonderful to read about these heroes of faith. I am so convicted and humbled by their strength, piety and humility as they faced the things they did. Makes me think I'm not as tired as I say I am. Makes me think I can do far more than I have been willing to do. I am so thankful for the book and for the effect I know it will have on me. I didn't have the priviledge of being close to my grandparents in Texas and I almost feel like this is giving me some of the things I would have heard from them had I lived closer. There is something about your generation and their parents that is so priceless. The loss in our society has been profound. God is at work in this nation though. Hard times are coming and they will lead us to repent with the prayers of the saints. Mindy Wood, Freelance Writer/Editor Shawnee, OK ---------------------------------------------- Times during the Depression and Dust Bowl were hard, and her family survived by picking cotton... ...Carlos Norris, known as Chuck, became the lead actor in the TV series, "Walker, Texas Ranger." He often flew to family reunions with other relatives living across the Southwest. They were joined by Ms. Wilma and their loving relationships are well described by the authors. Correna Pickens and Farah Bazzrea both were close friends of Ms. Wilma. They quote her at age 83 as saying, "I have always tried to look for the silver lining... God has kept me from harm." Russ Long - Sunday, January 4, 2009 The Oklahoman ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- "It is the story of movie star Chuck Norris' mother, Wilma Norris Knight. Most of you probably know that they were originally from Wilson. It is an interesting book... no doubt it is in the bookstores by now." Kenneth Eck - January 15, 2009 The Healdton Herald --------------------------------------------------------------------- What a wonderful well-written book! Being from Australia and still fairly young, I haven't had to live through too many hard times. I found I couldn't put the book down. I found myself feeling as though I was standing in the background watching the events of Ms. Wilma's birth unfold before me. The way her family had faith in God seemed to be something that to this day has guided them and made them stronger. Ms. Wilma has had many problems throughout her life, starting at a very young age. She got so ill at one point she was taken from her family and placed in a hospital to be treated for a very rare illness, but due to her strength, her family, and their faith in God she made it through. I read this book and thought to myself that even though I lost my brother at a young age, there is always someone who has endured more than yourself. Ms. Wilma is one of these people. It shows that having a strong family and a great faith in God makes anything possible. Ms. Wilma went on to have happiness with Ray Norris and even though this proved to provide hard times, she did have three loving sons Carlos, Wieland, and Aaron from this union. Although the marriage didn't last, Ms. Wilma still provided a caring and loving home, doing whatever she could to support her young family. Ms. Wilma deserved more than this and as the saying goes, "Good things come to those who wait," which it did. She found George who she married and stayed with until he passed on. During those years, Ms. Wilma was happy. During this time, she still suffered from illness and lost friends and family. Although upset by these events, she still had the faith to continue on and be a positive role model. One of the hardest losses would have been losing Wieland in Vietnam. It seems as though Wieland left a big hole in the family. It's nice to read that they still talk about him and think of him all the time. Ms. Wilma's strength and guidance and strong family values is evident today. Her eldest son, Carlos Ray Norris (Chuck ) went on to be six times Karate World Champion and famous action movie star. He could have taken the path of the Hollywood lifestyle, which it seems he may have for a while, but all the time, caring for his mother and still asking for her thoughts and guidance. He still kept returning to God for strength, answers and guidance. Even though both her sons are successful, they still have strong family values, which comes from Ms Wilma. Reading the book, Ms. Wilma comes across as a person who supports her family, cherishes the time with them, and prays that they find happiness and seek what they are looking to achieve. This seems to have been passed on all the way to her great-grandchildren. The book is a great insight into a woman who could have given up, but instead she chose to stay positive and be true to herself and her faith . The book has been fantastically written and could have only been done by two people that would trust each other enough to do so. It's well-researched and comes across as its been written by a true friend. Great photos, loving and sad stories of a family who have lost loved ones, and others who have endured heartbreaks, but have gone on to find love and happiness again. It's a credit to Ms. Wilma to be able to give her family something that seems to be missing these days; that is love, faith, and strong family values. I also must thank the authors for writing the book. Without people like yourselves giving your time to complete such a great book, we wouldn't be blessed with this woman's wonderful story. I am sure Ms. Wilma must be very happy with the end result. Her family must be very proud of her and her story. The book gives me a great look at an American family living the American dream and that dream coming true even though hard times were had. This family, through the guidance of Ms. Wilma, shows today that with faith and lots of love and family, you can achieve anything. Would recommend this book to the young or old. It also explains why Carlos Norris is such a positive person and why he has such strong family values and a great faith in God. My mother is now reading this book. Thanks also for signing the book. Jodie Croswell Melbourne Australia --------------------------------------------- It was so refreshing... I couldn't put it down. It touched my heart. Gayla Wineland Panama, OK |
As a fan and admirer of American film star Chuck Norris, who rose from obscurity to become an actor known worldwide who has had enormous, positive influences on youth and adults around the world, I looked with an acute interest on the family dynamics that would produce such a dynamic person. Once immersed into the intimate experiences of Norris' mom's upbringing as the daughter of migrant cotton pickers, I read with interest this wonderful, Christian lady's struggles through the years and how her continued faith resources always sustained her in troubled times.
Time and again, the reader will share the experiences, some painful, some tragic, that Ms. Wilma Norris Knight experienced in her life, and how her faith always pulled her through. Told with compelling inspiration by Correna Wilson-Pickens and her daughter, Farah Bazzrea, this book is a must read for persons seeking true-life inspiration for their daily existence... a. good story - well told - an inspirational message
b. photos drive it - they are perfect
c. leading each chapter/page with a spiritual reference was so bright
d. book is an impressive sight to get, and is extremely easy to read - good work on the font. many seniors will praise you and Farah for putting everything in a format that they can read easily... -----------------------------------------Great job! James A. Clark, Sheltered in His Arms The life and times of Wilma Norris Knight, written by authors Correna F. Wilson Pickens and Farah Bazzrea, is a biographical account of Wilma’s life growing up in Depression-era Southern Oklahoma and overcoming health problems as a child, her journeys through life in California and Arizona through the war years and post-war America, raising her family, the most notable being the actor Carlos “Chuck” Norris, her interactions with her family and friends, faith in God, and her strong roots to her hometown of Wilson, Oklahoma. As I read this book, it strongly reminded me of the Laura Ingalls Wilder books that were written, describing growing up in a different time in America and when life was at a slower pace and values placed on the simpler things in life. The authors do a beautiful job of conveying this feeling throughout the book, describing in detail feelings that make the reader seem that you are there with Wilma as she encounters the trials and the triumphs of her life. A strong belief in the value of friends and family is a common thread throughout the book as the authors weave personal stories in at the different stages of Wilma’s life experiences, connecting Wilma with her roots, no matter where she goes or what she encounters. Her love of her family and their love of her is demonstrated time and time again, with the rise of Chuck Norris as first a martial arts expert and later movie star, along with her other children, including the loss of one of her sons, Wieland Norris during battle in Vietnam in 1970. The unifying element presented by the authors is Wilma’s abiding faith in God. This is evident in the many trials detailed throughout the book that the authors cite. If you enjoy a book that when you read it, you can’t or don’t want to put it down, Sheltered in His Arms is a book for you to read. It will leave the reader wanting to know even more of her story, the next chapter in Wilma’s life, and a warm feeling in your heart.
Kevin Stinson Wilson Public Schools Superintendent Wilson, OK ----------------------------------------- Dear Authors,
I wanted to congratulate on your recent published bio of Ms. Wilma Norris. Not only was it a tribute to Ms. Wilma, but an illustration of a life-long family friendship between Mrs. Correna Wilson-Pickens and Ms. Wilma Norris Knight. I have relished every page of the history, geneology, and anecdotal stories, many of which I bear personal witness to. Ms. Wilma must be so honored to have her story told by such a dear friend, and the written word comes to life thanks to the talents of Ms. Farah Bazzrea. I personally enjoyed thumbing through the pictures before I ever began the first chapter. They tell a story all their own. It's so nice to put a face with each person that influenced Ms. Wilma. She is such a fine Christian woman and matriarch to a very dear family. Mr. Carlos Norris and Mr. Aaron Norris are so blessed to call her mom, and must be thrilled with the final masterpiece you two have brought to the pages of this book. I have met Ms. Wilma on several ocassions and spoken with her over the years on the phone. Her faith and perseverance are an inspiration to us all. Best wishes to you both on a wonderful book and may you be blessed in the New Year!
Candice Dickinson Hamilton Memphis, TN ----------------------------------------- Sheltered in His Arms is well thought out - well researched and wonderfully written in an easy word flow... captures the attention of the reader with outstanding portrayal of Wilma's enduring hardships and tragedy in the early years. I find it amazing that Wilma's faith has sustained her throughout her lifetime. I also find it amazing that Correna has had such an intimate relationship with the Norris family throughout the years
This book is a must read!
E.F. McGowan Ardmore, OK ----------------------------------------- I want to tell you the book was very interesting. It held my attention all the way through. You are blessed with the gift of writing...
Marie Clark Hammon
Healdton, OK ---------------------------------------- I love reading historical books, especially about the early people who settled in Oklahoma. I was surprised to find so many interesting historical facts in this book. I read it through in six evenings. I could hardly put it down. The story line was moving. It was about very poor times that a Christian family lived through with love, respect, praying together, and having faith in God. All those who could work, went to the fields to earn enough to help buy food. Wilma Norris had many obstacles to overcome in her life, but her faith and hope in God, and dedicated family and friends helped her to overcome to victories. Nancy Oliver Shawnee, OK |
"I AM 87-YRS. YOUNG AND DO A LOT OF READING AS MY WIFE IS ILL WITH ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE. I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I HAVE ENJOYED YOUR BOOK, SHELTERED IN HIS ARMS. I WAS BORN FEBRUARY 1, 1922 AND I AM RELIVING MY LIFE THROUGH YOUR BOOK. WE HAD ALL OF THOSE CHORES TO DO AS WE WERE A FARM FAMILY AND EVEN THOUGH WE HAD A CAR, OFTEN WE DIDN'T HAVE THE MONEY TO BUY THE GAS TO DRIVE 17-MILES INTO TOWN. THE BOOK WAS VERY INSPIRATIONAL AS MY FAMILY HAD A STRONG FAITH IN GOD, TOO, AND WE SAID LOTS OF PRAYERS. OUR NEIGHBORS WERE OUR SOCIAL LIFE AS WE WERE ALL VERY CLOSE, LIKE FAMILIES. WE HAD ICE CREAM SOCIALS, WENT SWIMMING AND PLAYED COWBOYS AND INDIANS. I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I LOVED THE BOOK AND WILL BE PASSING IT ONTO MY DAUGHTER."
Mr. Richard Westphal Public Relations; Insurance Agent; Oilfield Driller/Pusher; Rancher
Seminole, Oklahoma ----------------------------------------- I received my Book. I read it in just two days. It's a wonderful story, about some pretty amazing people. I am Chuck {Carlos} Norris' biggest fan. I wanted to thank you for signing my book it was a wonderful extra surprise for me. I've never had a book signed by the authors. I think your next book project should be a book just about Wilma's sons. Or maybe just Carlos. Thank You! Judith VanDeMortel Kent, OH ----------------------------------------- Sheltered in His Arms is a wonderful book, full of emotion and attention to detail. It really brings the scenes of yesteryear to life. It was especially endearing to our family as we know so many of the people mentioned in the book personally and are related to many of them as well. As my mother said it brought back so many memories. Thanks for sharing such a wonderful lady with so many people. Debbie King and Mary Roberts ----------------------------------------- Correna, I just LOVE your book, it is so neat. You always have been a wonderful writer, and when I start reading, I don't want to put it down! Rev. Jim & Sheneista Gillum - Wilson, OK ----------------------------------------- What an interesting book! I really enjoyed the way that Correna and Farah brought the story to life. They mention so many aspects of Wilson and the people in it. It is a true treasure with lots of history and wonderful pictures. Suzanne Goode - Wilson, OK ------------------------------------------------
Pearlene Jackson - North Richland Hills, TX ------------------------------------------------ So refreshing to enjoy the wonderful compilation of the history of our forefathers. It sure gives us a more sincere respect and honor for those who paid such a price that we could mature to being honest and respected children, with a solid foundation set forth for us as they exemplified their faith in the Supreme Grand Master. What a honor it is to have one as exemplary to communicate with. Thank you for putting this book together in such a refreshing way...
I really enjoyed the book, Sheltered In His Arms. It was so interesting in that I knew some of the people and places that was spoken of throughout the book. I thought it was worded just perfect and written very well. I know there was a lot of work in putting it all together, editing and publishing it. My sister in Healdton is enjoying reading it now and my sister in Ringling can hardly wait to get it.
John C. Clark John's Lawn Service
Arlington, Texas ------------------------------------------------ "I want to tell you that no one will be disappointed in Sheltered In His Arms! It is a great book which I recommend everyone read."
Rev. Tawana Holland Shawnee, Oklahoma -----------------------------------------------
"It is a very good book!"
Rev. Ron Baldridge Shawnee, Oklahoma ------------------------------------------------ The book is excellent... a work of love. It gave me a good look at Wilson and at the faith of a family. You really accomplished your goal that you set out to do, in spite of health difficulties. You are an amazing and strong soul. God bless you. Nancy Heilman Retired Michigan Educator ------------------------------------------------ |
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Granny’s Books Publishing House PO Box 90 358 Birch Street Wilson, OK 73463 Phone: 580.668.1595 Copyright 2008 by Farah Bazzrea © No part of this publication may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission of the publisher. For information regarding permission, write to Granny’s Books Publishing House PO Box 90 Wilson, Oklahoma 73463 |
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