Book excerpt: This is the story of Norman Rockwell's dynamic years (1939-1953) in the Vermont village where he painted some of his greatest works, including 'The Four Freedoms' and 'Saying Grace.' Inspired by the 'everyday life of my neighbors, ' the artist created storytelling pictures that have touched the hearts of millions around the world. The book includes recollections by neighbors and models about Rockwell and his family and the community they shared, thirteen Rockwell paintings and sketches, 33 historic photographs, several never before published, a regional map, a listing of area museums, and selected bibliography for further exploration