A Personal Journey of Legacy
Every family story holds the power to inspire, heal, and connect. My own journey began in a quiet moment beside my mother, who carried a lifetime of unanswered questions about her own identity. As a young woman, I saw her sorrow - the yearning to simply know her own name or birthplace - and made a sincere promise to uncover her story. This promise became a mission. The path was uncertain, and I started with only faith in my heart, yet each step taught me that beginnings matter far more than having all the answers. Along the way, faith and perseverance revealed unexpected guidance, gracing me with discoveries and kindness from those I met. My mother's story shaped my conviction that preserving legacy is an act of love and hope. Today, I strive to help others begin their own searches for family truth, encouraging them with the message that each step forward is meaningful. Through Carikean Publishing, I invite you to join me in documenting and sharing your heritage, ensuring every family's journey echoes for generations to come.
A Mission Rooted in Faith
Maryanne Burgess
Founder, Author
I, Maryanne Burgess, the founder of Carikean Publishing, have always had a deep appreciation for books and the lasting impact authors leave behind. With a Bachelor of Arts from DePaul University in Chicago, I have long enjoyed writing, even though my degree wasn’t focused on it. Early in my life, I wrote poems for each of my four children, capturing their emerging personalities. In the 1980s, I successfully self-published “Designer Source Listings,” a resource for needle artists, but I never pursued a memoir until later in life.
My passion for history, particularly the stories of influential figures and the mysteries that unfold in the process of discovery, has shaped my love of reading. Growing up, I often read Agatha Christie novels and books about historical icons like Abraham Lincoln. The joy of exploring secondhand bookstores, which offered affordable books, and visiting libraries fueled my literary enthusiasm. I believe that reading is essential for any aspiring writer.
Years ago, a promise I made to my mother, albeit casually, became the driving force behind my memoir. After years of navigating obstacles, spending beyond my means, and delving into the painful details of my mother’s life, I gained profound insights into her heart and soul. This journey not only helped me fulfill that promise but also deepened my understanding of the world through my mother’s eyes. This memoir represents the culmination of years of research, emotional exploration, and a commitment to preserving my family’s legacy.