A Truth Worth Tellin’, by local author, Toni Teepell, received the Spring 2010 Written Art Award for Best Fiction!

A Southern tale of hope and redemption set in a sleepy Louisiana town, A Truth Worth Tellin’ , follows a family’s struggle with mental illness.

Growing up in Louisiana greatly influenced Toni Teepell’s first novel. Filled with Southern charm, porch swings and sweet tea, A Truth Worth Tellin’ gives the reader a glimpse of the small town life Toni experienced as a child. The novel offers a compassionate look at difficult topics.

Issues of faith, commitment, and determination woven throughout the book serve as inspiration to others who face hardships in their own lives.

Although fiction, the story is inspired by two extraordinary people in Teepell’s life. Her mother battled mental illness for over eighteen years, walking through horrific events with unwavering faith. Her father demonstrated unconditional love and commitment that went far beyond what one would expect possible. It is their story of struggle, hope and determination that Toni Teepell feels is worth telling.

Have you ever lied to protect yourself or someone you love? During the summer of 1962, Maggie Wall does exactly that. A Southern tale of hope and redemption set in a sleepy Louisiana town, A Truth Worth Tellin’, follows a family’s struggle with schizophrenia, as its twelve-year-old narrator finds forgiveness and acceptance, discovers the meaning of unconditional love and realizes their truth is worth telling.

A graduate of Louisiana State University, Teepell began a career in education. Her professional career includes years of sharing a passion for writing with students and being named 2006 Teacher of the Year at Shenandoah Elementary School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The dream to become a published author began when Teepell was eleven years old and remained through marriage, children, career and plenty of life. Forty-one years later, that dream became reality.

Toni and husband, Charlie, now live in Missouri City, Texas. They have three children and one grandson.

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