It Is Difficult to Duck Deftly

About the Book

This is a true story that tells of a poignant experience of a Chicago Public Schools teacher who passively, but sympathetically, observed the abuse of a fellow teacher for months. Then one eventful day, through fate, she becomes a witness to a ruse to arrest the teacher. The teacher asks her to call a friend. While ascertaining the friend’s phone number, the witness is also arrested.

Both teachers are later exploited by a corrupt legal system that secondarily fostered the outlandish intent of a school system and police department.

Through boundless perils of anguish and injustice, the writer becomes more determined to be heard through pen.

About the Author

Marie Heflin was born Marie Antoinette Netter in Rosedale, Mississippi in 1939. Marie's family relocated to Pennsylvania, so her father; Albert Netter could work on the Pennsylvania Turnpyke. It wasn't long (1943) before the family moved and settled in Chicago for what they had hoped would be greater opportunity. Marie was raised on Chicago's West Side after graduating Lucy Flower High School (Class of 1957) and attaining her license to be a practical nurse, in 1961 she married James Heflin. Marie continued her education at Chicago's Teacher's College during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, while she and James had three children: Fern (1963), Gary (1965) and Marla (1966). In 1970, Marie became a Teacher for the Chicago Board of Education. All her studying would soon pay off, as she would launch her career with accolades from her superiors. Marie's career went on to span 26 years and earned her superior ratings for most of her career. Not only did Marie raise three hard-working, intelligent children of her own, but provided nurturing and guidance to thousands of inner-city youth. Marie now resides on the south side of Chicago with James; she travels, maintains a strong relationship with her church and enjoys entertaining her family and friends.