“Becoming Hazel” Brings the Untold Story of a Defiant, Brilliant Woman Who Refused to Be Defined by Disability

“Becoming Hazel: Inherited Treasures Book 1” by Dorrie-Lenore Parsons is a stirring historical novel inspired by true events that transports readers to the early 20th century a time of suffrage, silent films, and women beginning to rewrite the rules of society. Recently endorsed to the Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) and now presented to key decision-makers, this republished second edition shines a new light on one woman’s extraordinary fight to live authentically and leave her mark.

The novel follows Hazel Cunningham, born in 1889 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with severe curvature of the spine and a shortened leg. Society branded her with cruel labels “Midget.” “Cripple.” “Willful.” “Stubborn.” yet Hazel’s fiery spirit also earned her words like “Brilliant.” “Inspired.” “Brava!” She yearned for independence, applause, and a chance to become a modern woman on her own terms.

When sent to Mineral Wells, Texas, to be “cured” of her congenital ailments, Hazel found more than medicine, she discovered friends, mentors, and love:

● Mildred Witherspoon, a generous confidante.

● JB Parker, a movie theater owner who fueled her passion for performance.

● Maria de Jesus, a suffragist who opened Hazel’s eyes to activism.

● Charlie Roberts, a towering fireman who fell in love with her despite every obstacle.

Together, they helped Hazel shatter society’s limits and embrace a future where courage, artistry, and rebellion intersected.

More than a historical novel, “Becoming Hazel” is a tribute to women who defied the odds pioneers who laid the groundwork for women’s rights and artistic freedom.

ABOUT THE BOOK & SERIES

“Becoming Hazel” is the first book in the Inherited Treasures series, which celebrates generations of women who fought for their voices on stage, on screen, and in society. Recently edited and republished by Archway Publishing, this Second Edition features a stunning new cover inspired by the silent film masterpiece A Trip to the Moon and includes fresh content.

The series continues with:

● Saints & Deceivers (Book 2)
● Hoofers & Hooch (Book 3)
● Gangsters & Reels (Book 4)
● Finding Salvadora (Book 5, forthcoming)

All are available in hardback, paperback, and Kindle.

Available now on Amazon: “Becoming Hazel: Inherited Treasures Book 1”
Learn more at: https://dorrieparsonsauthor.wordpress.com/about/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dorrie-Lenore Parsons lives just outside Boston with her husband and their rescue puppy. A fourth-generation member of a family of theater people most of them women she followed in their footsteps as a director, set designer, and teacher of Communication and Performing Arts, after a career in bilingual education. Writing the Inherited Treasures series allows her to honor the bold women who came before her while inspiring the fifth and sixth generations of her family who now carry the tradition of performance forward.

Endorsed by the Writer’s Guild of America, “Becoming Hazel” is more than historical fiction, it is a celebration of women’s courage, resilience, and the timeless fight to define their own destinies.

Contact Information

Scott Burns

Writer

Broadway Licensing

Contact via E-mail