Tag: Travel

A Day for Celebration

On By stuartakenIn Author, Creative Writer, Nature14 Comments

Today marks 2 years in our new home in the Forest of Dean. The move away from East Yorkshire, family and friends, was planned and chosen, but none the easier for that. But it was the right time and, we hoped, the right place. Somewhere to settle for our retirement. A place where we could …

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Letters From Hull, by Linda Swift, Reviewed.

On By stuartakenIn Author, Book, Creative Writer, Reading, Review

This collection of letters written by an American novelist to her family and friends whilst living in Hull, England, during 1999/2000, is, essentially, a very personal book. Having said that, it’s also a book for everyone interested in the cultures, habits and attitudes of both nations. I came across it via Facebook; one of my …

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Fantasticon 2016 and Other Treats

On By stuartakenIn Author, Book, Fiction, Reading2 Comments

A book launch, where we sold out of the publisher’s stock! A meeting with Royd Tolkien and lots of other authors. A gathering of enthusiastic and generous people at an event celebrating science fiction, fantasy and gaming. Plus: Visits to relatives and friends in various locations. Visits to Family Research Centres to gather facts for …

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Around the World in 80 Tales, by Dave Tomlinson, Reviewed.

On By stuartakenIn Author, Book, Creative Writer, Reading, Review

There are stories from much of the world here, though the bulk concern East Asia, Australia and South America. The author uses simple everyday language to convey his adventures in often exotic locations. The style is easy and peppered with humour, humanity and the occasional caution. This is travel on a budget, so we’re treated …

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Returning to the Digital Drama

On By stuartakenIn Author, Creative Writer, opinion, Procrastination4 Comments

On 20th September, I wrote a short piece titled ‘Denying Digital Demands’. This is the follow-up. If possible, once a year, I attempt a break from the demands of online life. Usually, it coincides with a holiday away from home. Breaking free from both the everyday and the unending demands of constant connection can refresh …

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A Sojourn on Samos.

On By stuartakenIn Author, Nature5 Comments

Nestling close to Turkey, so you feel you might swim the channel to the mainland, lies the Aegean island of Samos. If you dared that swim, though, you’d probably be swept into the wilder parts of the sea never to be seen: the undercurrents are very strong! Valerie and I hadn’t visited Samos and chose …

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