Alice Hegan Rice was an American novelist. Born in Shelbyville, Kentucky. 'Mrs. Wiggs Of The Cabbage Patch' is set in Louisville, Kentucky where Rice lived at the time. Though the threat of poverty and illness lie constantly at her door, Mrs. Wiggs keeps a sunny attitude that spreads its warmth over her little family and her neighbours. Despite her lack of education, her tiny means and the trauma's that have plagued her life, Mrs. Wiggs is an example of contentment and generosity that shines out within her tiny community and has its effect even on the wealthier citizens of the nearby town. Her plans to avoid disaster are often hilarious (especially when she approaches the local doctor and asks to sell her body for research in case she ever dies, in order to provide for her children's wellbeing!) but all show the purity and humility that live in her heart.
