Introduction to A Memoir of Mary Ann Summary and Analysis

In 1960 O'Connor receives a letter from Sister Evangelist, the Sister Superior of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Free Cancer Home in Atlanta. Sister Evangelist would like O'Connor's help in writing a novel about an inspirational child named Mary Ann, a deformed twelve-year-old who has lived at the home since 1949 and recently died. Mary Ann had been born with a tumor on the side of her face which left her disfigured. In spite of her physical disfigurement, Mary Ann was an absolutely delightful child who brought joy to whoever had the opportunity to meet her. Sister Evangelist would like Mary Ann's story told so that the world could see the impact that the girl had on the world.

O'Connor studies the picture of Mary Ann that Sister Evangelist had enclosed...