Funny what they say about facts and fiction.
The facts for me are that the first thing I ever wanted to be was an author of fiction novels. Then as a matter or fact I was lucky to have a best-selling author, Peter Tonkin as my English teacher at school.
I’ll also never forget the fact that he said – in front of the whole class – that I needed to work on my grammar if I wanted to be an author. It was tough to hear but a powerful acknowledgement of what I wanted to be. As the facts turned out I never quite mastered my grammar but I had learned a powerful lesson about self belief and putting the work in.
My entire career has revolved around words and communication: media, singing/songwriting, coaching and motivational speaking.
But strangely, it was only when I wrote my third book Soul Trader that I remember that being an author was my first dream as a kid from the age of 10-11. On that realisation I tracked down Mr Tonkin and thanked him for his wise words. He told me he always thought I’d achieve something of my dreams. That email was one of the most touching things I’ve read.
Peter just emailed me a link to his new book pictured here. Funnily enough I’ve not read fiction books since I was at school. But a while back I wondered if I might one day write a personal development fable. Perhaps if I do it might inspire like I was back then.
Thank you Mr Tonkin and good luck with your new book The Ides which is available for pre-order on Amazon now
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