Meet Margaret “Peggy” Best
Two-Time Book Award Winner | Memoirist | Inspirational Author | Writing Coach
Margaret Allyn Best, known as Peggy, is a Royal Palm Literary Award–winning author whose work explores faith, resilience, and the enduring strength of family. Raised in a military family, she learned early that home is not always a place—it is the people who carry you. Her acclaimed memoir, Dandelion Child: A Soldier’s Daughter, reflects the courage and adaptability required of military children and resonates with readers who value stories of perseverance and legacy.
Peggy has written across genres, including memoirs, how-to books, children’s stories, and faith-based studies. As a retired elementary school teacher with a master’s degree in Reading Education, she brings her expertise in literacy and storytelling to both her writing and her coaching programs. She believes everyone has a story to tell and guides others in recording their memories, helping transform photographs and moments into lasting legacies.
Honored as a Woman in History by her DAR chapter, Peggy is passionate about preserving historical and personal stories. She has lived in Japan, Egypt, Puerto Rico, Guam, Miami, Houston, Massachusetts, Louisiana, New York, Germany, and Georgia, and has traveled widely—experiences that enrich her writing and perspective.
Today, she lives in Florida with her husband of 55 years. Together they have three children and eight grandchildren. Peggy continues to write, scrapbook family history, and inspires others to tell their stories. She enjoys connecting with readers and fellow writers, offering advice, critiques, and encouragement along the way.
About Dandelion Child: A Soldier’s Daughter
This award-winning memoir follows the life of an Army officer’s daughter from 1947 to 1969 during the Cold War. It offers a unique glimpse into childhood in the military, written for both young adults and adults. Like every military BRAT, this dandelion child is brave, bold, resilient, responsible, respectful, adventurous, adaptable, accepting, traveled, trusted, and tenacious.
Order Now and explore the adventures, challenges, and resilience of a military child growing up in a world defined by movement, change, and faith.
Why I Write
I cannot, not write. Every place I visit, every person I meet, every ordinary day holds a story waiting to be told. I love listening to people share their life experiences because I believe every life matters. I only wish my grandparents had written their stories—I would treasure their words today. That longing is one reason I write… and why I encourage others to do the same.
Margaret “Peggy” Best signing copies of her seven published books. December, 2025
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Available For Speaking Engagements
Unsung Hero Author: Margaret Allyn Greene Best
Peggy Best is available for speaking engagements telling her story for your organization, special event, or celebration ceremony.