Life in the Heartland

Order Anna from Atlanta & Anna of Iowa

Follow the Anna from Atlanta Book/Movie

Co-Authors Catherine Team & Beverly Smirnis dedicate both books in the "Anna" series to caregivers.

When Anna moves to Iowa to live with the doctor’s family and care for their young child with severe physical challenges,
she didn’t know Iowa would become her permanent home. The Worrells and fellow residents of the town of Marshalltown didn’t realize how much she would impact each and every one of their lives.

Unlikely Heroes Inspire Artists

Authors, film-makers, songwriters, photographers and painters draw inspiration from people who rise above life circumstances.

17th Dallas International Film Festival

The 2023 Festival featured screenings of more than 100 films submitted from more than 60 countries,

“God Is Gradin’ Us, and that includes Fritzy”

In Anna’s words: “I wanted Fritzy to know that he didn’t have the worst life by a long shot. I told Fritzy all the time

Recipes Leave a Lasting Legacy

The real-life Anna who inspired the 2- book series, Anna from Atlanta and Anna of Iowa, introduced her Southern cooking to the residents of Marshalltown,

Anna From Atlanta, Anna of Iowa, Immortalize Lessons from an Unlikely Hero

We can’t let Black History Month pass without recognizing the inspiration for our books, Anna from Atlanta and Anna of Iowa. Outside of Marshalltown, Iowa,

Love Is…

At the back of Anna of Iowa (Book 2 in the Anna series by Catherine Team and Beverly Smirnis), is a speech by C.J. Renfro,

A Shared Appreciation for Tradition and Beauty

Anna From Atlanta had no pedigree like Lady Carnarvon, but she shared much in common, namely her appreciation for tradition and beauty. Anna’s colorful and

Fascinating World War II Facts Became Inspiration for Anna of Iowa Plot

Anna series author Catherine Team had heard about the famous magician T. Nelson Downs born in Marshalltown, Iowa and moved back there in his retirements.