Surviving the Asylum

In this raw and poignant memoir, Michael recounts his harrowing journey through the psychiatric system and his struggle to find purpose after losing custody of his beloved autistic grandson.

After a suicide attempt lands him in a geriatric psychiatric ward for the third time in recent years, Michael finds himself cut off from the outside world and the grandson he raised for three decades. Facing abuse and isolation, he contemplates ending it all.

But a lifeline appears in the form of his vocal coach and support worker, who encourage him to channel his pain into art. As Michael discovers new passions in singing, painting, and poetry, he forges an unexpected friendship with a fellow patient that reignites his will to live.

This powerful story of resilience and reinvention shows how creativity and human connection can offer hope even in the darkest of times. Michael’s journey reminds us that it’s never too late to find a new voice and a reason to keep singing.

Don't Worry, He Doesn't Bite

The vets on TV are always depicted as perfect clinicians, with sunshine and rainbows bursting out from their individual patients. But what media companies fail to show you are the more ‘uncommon’ cases, like a dog eating some used condoms, for example. This book aims to rectify this perception, specifically taking the reader on a journey through what life is like graduating as a veterinary surgeon. You will read about some pretty stupid cases my colleagues and I have experienced, all of which are true, though I must admit, I do have a habit of not letting the truth get in the way of a good story. So, sit back, relax, and take a break from this mundane existence we call life, as I show you the world through the eyes of a newly graduated veterinary surgeon.

Me

Ron Pearson was born in Bramley, Leeds on August 12, 1924. He began writing this book on August 12, 2021, his 97^th birthday. After a childhood beset by illness, he left school at 14, and took a job packing parcels in a multiple tailoring factory, not for him. He moved on to packing parcels general muggins at an advertising agency at 50 pence a week, which he loved. His career in advertising was interrupted by a four-and-a-half-year spell in the army on ‘Special Operations’. Returning to civvy street, his career culminated in being appointed Managing Director and then Chairman of one of Yorkshire’s most respected advertising agencies. He was a local actor for almost 50 years including the renowned Bradford Alhambra and Playhouse.

There are some sad moments outnumbered by many hilarious ones. Ron’s beloved wife, Pat, died in 2017 after 66 years of happy marriage.

The list of ‘celebrities’ he has met is impressive, including Princess Margaret, Prince Charles, Hollywood’s Marlene Dietrich, George Raft, Sir Ralph Richardson, George Best, Jackie Charlton, Harry Worth, Alan Bennett etc.

The House Is Burning

It’s the 1950s and mounting political unrest consumes Rwanda. With fading monarchy, intensifying colonial rule and whispers of rebellion, countless native families find age-old traditions under attack.

For Abel A. Nkunda’s family, the shifting climate grows increasingly hostile. As powers vie for control around them, they face a painful choice: take flight to save all they cherish or stay to watch it burn.

Venturing into remote wilds in search of refuge, grandparents lead young Abel towards an uncertain future. With each step into the unknown, doubts arise. Can a foreign haven truly preserve their sacred cattle herding heritage from extinction?

Follow the Nkundas’ quest across a changing landscape where long-held customs blink at the brink. Will new mountains shelter this household from escalating threats? Or will the life they knew go up in smoke? Immerse yourself in one family’s struggle to find safe harbour for endangered livelihoods and identity before the house left behind is reduced to ashes.

Learning from Albi

Scruffy, deaf, and homeless, life on the streets is tough for young Albi. What could the future possibly hold for an abandoned Spanish Podenco puppy that has been hit by a car and can’t hear? Yet despite a traumatic start, Albi’s life changes when he is rescued, brought to the UK, and fostered by Lois Sinclair, founder of the rescue charity, Gracehounds, and a passionate dog lover who has shared her life and home with numerous canine companions. Before long, Lois and Albi’s lives become interwoven.

With Lois’s nursing background and Albi’s intuitive nature, the pair soon find themselves volunteering in the animal healthcare sector. Albi also develops a reputation as a transition dog, offering support to other dogs and their owners during times of loss.

But Albi is a free spirit. He also has health issues. And while his sensitive nature earns him many friends and admirers, there will be challenges ahead, including surgery. As Albi continues to enrich Lois’s life, questions remain. Albi may have found a forever home but can the love and hope which bind him and Lois sustain him? And does this unique animal have the strength to live the life that every dog deserves?

Surviving Smoking Mirrors: My Reflection

Surviving Smoking Mirrors: My Reflection is a candid chronicle of Alliey’s tumultuous relationship with Josh, tracing its journey from the beginning to its bitter end, and the myriad challenges she faced along the way. Following the collapse of their marriage, Alliey finds herself entangled in a complex property settlement while enduring ongoing gaslighting and abuse from Josh. Concurrently, Josh plunges into a hedonistic lifestyle.

Amidst these trials, Alliey’s son, Camden, begins to show worrying injuries following visits with Josh, adding to her mounting concerns. As Alliey grapples with supporting Camden, her own battle with anorexia spirals dangerously out of control, threatening to cost her everything. This story is a raw and unflinching exploration of the struggles faced in the aftermath of a tumultuous relationship, highlighting the resilience and determination needed to persevere through adversity.

Now and Evermore

Embark on a thrilling journey through the kaleidoscope of Sarojini’s extraordinary life, where happiness dances hand in hand with adventure, and every page brims with excitement and wonder. From the heartwarming highs to the adrenaline-pumping escapades, she has been graced with a life overflowing with joy and contentment.

Prepare to be swept away by the enchanting tapestry of Sarojini’s remarkable adventures and captivating experiences. This book isn’t just a story; it’s an invitation to join her on a rollercoaster of emotions, where every moment is a treasure waiting to be uncovered.

So, dear reader, fasten your seatbelt and get ready for a ride of a lifetime. Dive into the pages of Sarojini’s book and let the magic of her world ignite your own sense of wonder and delight.

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Happy reading!

I Can Fly in My Dreams: Conception to Manifestation

I have known this remarkable young man for several years, and it was evident from our first meeting that he was a devout man of God. This is reflected not just in his beliefs, but in the aura of confidence he exudes, stemming from his deep commitment and thorough study of God’s word.

In this autobiography, he narrates a significant chapter of his life, making it particularly resonant for those who have grown up or are currently growing up in the church. His narrative is open, transparent, authentic, and revealing. James shares pivotal moments from his life, offering insights into the experience of growing up in a Christian household.

For readers from non-Christian backgrounds, this book provides an enlightening glimpse into a path filled with strategies for success in various life aspects. James’ journey is a testament to the existence of a higher power, challenging conventional science and logic, and compelling the reader to reconsider their views on religion. The evidence he presents is thought-provoking and demands contemplation.

Throughout the book, James delves into various themes and life lessons that have shaped him into the man he is today. His story invites readers to ponder the future chapters of his life. This compelling narrative promises to be a source of inspiration and guidance for many, especially those grappling with their own Christian journey.

With Love From God

Does cancer enhance courage? Or does it heighten the sense of humor? Can a life threatening illness strengthen bonds, create friendships or form a community? Lavanya Rajpal had been in remission from blood cancer (leukemia) for ten years when in March 2013 the diagnosis is made again. With Love from God is Sohini Rajpal's moving account of the next two years of her daughter's second battle with cancer. For those who are encountering a similar experience or who are fascinated by an individual's determination to not only survive, but to enjoy life in spite of the obstacles that are placed in their way, this book will be an uplifting read. Sohini Rajpal takes the reader through their lives in different parts of the world encompassing Japan in the far east, Australia down under, their home country India and California in the west. The similarities and differences between the nations and cultures as well as each stage of therapy, each set back and each victory including in her praise all those who provided support through the journey towards recovery, including medical professionals, family and friends and even those on social media who offered prayers never having met Lavanya.With Love from God shows the world in its best light.

Who Cares Who Wins

Adventures start at some point!The author was born just after the end of World War Two.He used to leave home at 4am at eight years of age on the horse and carts and in the evenings would go chimney sweeping.When he was older he spent a few years in the military. Multiple migrations, including the ‘Ten Pound Poms’ program then followed.After this came over 30 years of global ‘itchy foot syndrome’ full of exciting ever-changing lifestyles ranging from: rich, skint, happy, and sad.In the following 30 years, there came numerous diagnoses: anxiety, depression, Parkinson’s, mental health issues, strokes, various dementia and divorce.Then along came Mike’s saviours: grandchildren, hiding and losing his disabilities within their love and warm hugs.Every day’s an adventure.

When We Were Very Rich

A family saga rich in characters and backdrop, this book will hook you from the first few lines. Isabel, eldest daughter of Sarah and Albert, lives a life of many riches; family togetherness, love, nature and freedom. Her life is poor in monetary value and lacking in belongings, but she experiences a childhood the sort that money is unable to buy. Surrounded by many siblings - her mother had 14 live births, all without any attention from a doctor or medical intervention, a valiant and strong mother she was. Sarah's grandparents were shipped off as convicts to Australia from England and made a life there when they were given their freedom. Albert and Sarah married in 1918 and forged a life through the Depression in the late 1920s. What was considered poor then, would be rich pickings today; unpolluted air, wild flowers, organic home-grown food and an abundance of wildlife. The story is like a tapestry, the last word or stitch humbling and too soon.

Unprepared for Life's Journey

Unprepared for Life's Journey is a heart-warming true story, detailing the missionary life of an inspirational Catholic woman. Maria Flavel started life in Germany as part of a happy farming family, but she reaches an age when she must think about her future. Deciding to follow in her older sister's footsteps, she enrols in a convent to devote her life to God. But it's not long before Maria questions often-cruel treatment from the nuns.Showing great endurance and strength, she finally admits that biblical life in this form may not be for her. And so she begins her own journey. Following her dream to work overseas, she finds her calling in Papua New Guinea as a teacher, helping underprivileged people to become more independent. Here she feels a true connection to God through the work that He wants her to do. A fascinating account of suffering and joy through war, death and meaningful relationships; a welcome reminder of the gift that life is, the importance of the people we share it with, and the opportunity it offers to do something that really matters.