DURHAM, N.C., February 16, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- In a novel that addresses the ongoing battle between Israelis and Palestinians, Mary Ruth Miller tells of two dedicated college professors, who become concerned. The Calling (now available through 1stBooks) reveals their discoveries about the Middle Eastern conflict and their commitment to academic freedom and responsibility.
Continuing a story that began in Dr. Miller's previous novel, Chilhowee, The Calling tells the story of Beth Ledbetter and Drew Gordon, two college professors at different New York universities. Now married, they encourage their students to take the current world situation into consideration in their studies of English and history.
Beth is concerned about a right-wing militia, "God's Army," which gave her problems in Chilhowee. Beth and Drew also deal with reactions to Muslim fanaticism and both Israeli and Christian Zionism. As they interact with colleagues and students and learn from their own readings, Beth and Drew become immersed in what they see as Israelis' repression of Palestinians. Drew feels called to join the fight and he, along with a Jewish friend and newspaper reporter for the Knoxville (Tenn.) Tribune, go to Palestine to engage in the Freedom Summer campaign for the International Solidarity Movement.
This thought-provoking novel offers an entertaining storyline that touches on the issues of the rights and responsibilities of educators, personal passions and a basic examination of democracy.
Dr. Miller is a retired college English professor who lives in North Carolina. She taught courses on Shakespeare, literature and writing. A graduate of Florida State University, Vanderbilt University and Duke University, she spends her time traveling, reading and volunteering. The Calling is Dr. Miller's second novel, although she has published numerous professional works.
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