They Are My Sisters: A memoir

They Are My Sisters is a poignant memoir of Sammy Dyer’s 42 years volunteering with battered women in shelters and prisons, illuminating the healing power of human connection in the face of devastating loss and abuse, as well as the strength and resilience of women. The book is a heart-expanding memoir that bears witness to the human toll one of society’s most pervasive and tragic problems-domestic violence. Sammy’s touching experiences and reflections from her work with victims in shelters and in prisons are interwoven with the stories and voices of battered women who are working to put their shattered lives back together. Laced with episodes of humor and compassion, the reader gains an intimate view of the deep relationships formed by the author, as well as the challenges faced by battered women. The book provides a unique and humanizing perspective on the issue of domestic violence.

The book is written by Sammy Dyer with three co-authors-Deb Dyer, Linda Hansell, and Mary Wilkinson. The lead author, Sammy Dyer, is 88 years old and has dedicated countless hours over the last 42 years to serving as an advocate for battered women.

Deb Dyer and Mary Wilkinson are the award-winning authors of the play The Unexpected Advocate about Sammy Dyer’s work with battered women. The play is a winner in the 2018 New Works of Merit Playwriting Contest.

Linda Hansell, Ph.D. is an established author and close acquaintance of Sammy Dyer. Linda has a B.A. from Williams College and a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. Linda’s previous publications include two co-written autobiographies-Dancing in the Wonder for 102 Years with Marilee Shapiro Asher, and Memories of a Life: My First Ninety Years with Eugene Barry.