Massive congratulations to our alumni authors who have have had their books published.
Take a look at the latest books available from our alumni authors:
Flora Carr (English Literature, 2016) has published her debut novel – The Tower – this month.
They are imprisoned, but not contained. Three women cross a loch. It is 1567, one of them is pregnant, two of them fretful. The boat takes them to Lochleven castle in the middle of the water. Awaiting them are courtiers braying for blood, hellbent on keeping one of them under lock and key: Mary Queen of Scots. Casting a riveting and unforgettable female perspective on history, Carr’s immersive debut reimagines the imprisonment of the fallen Mary Queen of Scots and her three maids in an island castle.
This book is available to purchase online.
Vianney de Boisredon (Politics, Philosophy, and Economics, 2018) has recently published Steppe by Steppe.
It all begins with an inner murmur barely audible in the cacophony of a busy life. At the age of 25, Vianney embarked on an eighty-day initiatory journey: from France, to reach the “stan” countries of Central Asia, only by hitchhiking and thanks to the hospitality of the locals. From the Mediterranean coast to the desert steppes via the Balkans, Anatolia and the Caucasus, the author takes us on a human adventure where his quest towards others reveals his most unsuspected resources. Through powerful encounters and incredible experiences, he continues his journey, one step after another, until the arrival of winter. Meanwhile, his mind wanders.
This book is available to purchase online (currently available solely in French).
Connie Girard (Politics and International Relations with advanced proficiency in German Language, 2022) has published her children’s book My Super Brother.
This is a heart-warming children’s book that tells the story of a young girl named Harper and her little brother, Felix, who is touched by Down syndrome. Through Harper’s eyes, the book explores the unique abilities and qualities that children with Down syndrome possess and celebrates them. The book encourages children to embrace differences and to treat others with kindness and empathy.
Throughout the story, children (and adults alike) will learn what Down Syndrome is, what it means in practice, and how to interact in the best possible way with those touched by the syndrome. The book also teaches a few basic signs that can help communication with non-verbal children. With vibrant illustrations by Julian Firth-Pajaczkowski, this book is a wonderful tool for parents and educators to use when teaching children about inclusivity and diversity.
This book is available to purchase online.
Kevin O’Regan (English, 1975) has recently published two historical novels in a new series – New Swan Stone – and Meteor.
In the first book, Lizzie Barnes has to fly a new Wellington Bomber to RAF Silverstone, a base for training air crew. She discovers the body of young girl and, using her powers of observation and deduction, helps find the killer. But Lizzie is flawed and memories of her past stirred by other characters make her jump to conclusions.
In the second book, Lizzie flies some important people to RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire for a top secret test. But German agents seem to be interested in it too. A young airman is killed and suspicion falls on the German agents. But are they to blame and what part does a man from the Ministry play?
More information about these books, including how to purchase them, are available online.
Helen Russell (English Literature, 2001) has recently published her latest book: How to Raise a Viking: The Secrets of Parenting the World’s Happiest Children.
This book takes a deep dive into the parenting culture of Denmark and the other Nordic nations, from parental leave policies to school structure, screen time, and the surprising customs that lead to happy, well-adjusted humans. This fascinating peek behind the cultural curtain allows readers a glimpse of another world, where babies sleep outside in their prams up to -20°C and pre-schoolers wield axes.
Refreshingly funny and unfailingly optimistic about the new generation of humans growing up in the world right now, this is a heart-warming love letter to Russell’s adopted homeland and proof that we could all use a bit more Viking in our lives.
This book is available to purchase online.
Michelle Szydlowski (MA, Anthrozoology, 2017 and PhD in Anthrozoology, 2021) has recently published Elephant Tourism in Nepal: Historical Perspectives, Current Health and Welfare Challenges, and Future Directions.
This book examines the challenges faced by captive elephants. Used as human conveyance, on anti-poaching patrol teams, as rescue vehicles, and in forestry service, elephants have worked with and for humans for hundreds of years. However, the use of elephants in tourism is a fairly new development within Nepal. Because the health and welfare of tourism elephants is vital to the conservation of wild individuals, this book offers an assessment of captive elephant needs and an examination of their existing welfare statuses.
This book is available to purchase online.
Phil Hamlyn Williams (Humanities, 2008) has published his seventh book since retirement: Vehicles to Vaccines.
The story of the seismic change in British manufacturing since 1951 and why British companies which were then still making baby food and patent medicines are now developing life-saving drugs while others who were mere mass-producers of basic machine tools for commonwealth markets have become digital printers of complex parts for aeroengines. The fascinating journey takes us from the Festival of Britain into gas turbines, utility and luxury car brands, computers, glass, innovative fabrics and furnishings and the ATM to name but a few.
This book is available to purchase online, and you can find out more about Phil’s books on his website.