And the People Stayed Home, O`Meara Kitty

Kitty OMeara is the poet laureate of the pandemic--O, The Oprah Magazine

It captured the kind of optimism people need right now.--Esquire (UK)

Thank you, Kitty OMeara...for pointing out that at this very moment, this very day, we can seize the opportunity to restore wholeness to our world.--Sy Montgomery, bestselling author of The Good Good Pig and The Soul of an Octopus

An eloquent, heartwarming reflection that will resonate with generations to come... encouragement for a brighter tomorrow.--Kate Winslet

A poem by American writer Kitty OMeara has deservedly gone viral.--Edinburgh Evening News

And the People Stayed Home is a beautifully produced picture book featuring Kitty OMearas popular, globally viral prose poem about the coronavirus pandemic, which has a hopeful and timeless message.

Kitty OMeara, author of And the People Stayed Home, has been called the poet laureate of the pandemic. This illustrated childrens book (ages 4-8) will also appeal to readers of all ages.

OMearas thoughtful poem about the pandemic, quarantine, and the future suggests there is meaning to be found in our shared experience of the coronavirus and conveys an optimistic message about the possibility of profound healing for people and the planet. Her words encourage us to look within, listen deeply, and connect with ourselves and the earth in order to heal.

OMeara, a former teacher and chaplain and a spiritual director, clearly captures important aspects of the pandemic experience. Her words, written in March 2020 and shared on Facebook, immediately resonated nationally and internationally and were widely circulated on social media, covered in mainstream news media, and inspired an outpouring of creativity from musicians, dancers, artists, filmmakers, and more. The many highlights include an original composition by John Corigliano that was premiered by Ren e Fleming.