Christopher Salmon
Author Christopher Salmon has just published his novel 'Keepers of Light' with Melbourne-based publisher, Arcadia Press. Growing up on the coast, evoked all kinds of memories in the author and they are encapsulated in his story which tells the plight of ninety-four year old Best Douglas. The novel juxtaposes the life of 94 year old Best Douglas against his life as a boy growing up in the coastal shire of Thurrough during World War One.
"I have always been fascinated by the resilience of some people in the face of extreme adversity," relates Christopher. "Keepers of Light is a story that offers an insight into one person's elevation above tragic circumstances. The novel also shows that no matter how resolute or strong we may think we are, we all need a little help at some point; help that might come in the form of others, our own mind, or even the divine - or perhaps a combination of all three."
James Terry of Arcadia Press was thrilled when he first read Christopher's submission. "This is a totally unique story with the Australian psyche providing an engaging fabric," says Terry. "Coupled with Chris's research on Australian history, it makes for an entertaining and uplifting story."
Christopher started his working life as a part-time copywriter. Over the course of the last 20 years, he has been involved in writing for most marketing mediums as well as had non-fiction articles published in several countries. He began writing fiction in the mid-nineties while living in Vancouver, Canada, which took the forms of novels, screenplays, plays, and songs - most unfinished. In 2010, whilst undertaking a Masters in Creative Writing at Sydney University, he was determined to complete his first novel, 'Keepers of Light'.
Aside from a five year stint in Canada, he has resided in the southern Sydney Shire of Sutherland all his life and now lives in Caringbah with his Canadian wife, Donna, and their four children. It could be interpreted that the novel's fictional setting of Thurrough is based on the Sutherland Shire. "Ultimately, it is a work of fiction and doesn't attempt to pinpoint any particular historical character or place, "explains the author. "But it is very difficult to escape your environment or who you are, " he goes on to add. "Nor as a writer should you. The reader should feel that they are getting a genuine story straight from the writer's heart. Besides, a Peninsula that was once the unspoiled home of the aboriginals that becomes the birthplace of "white" Australia, only to morph into a region decimated by industry represents a tantalizing backdrop."
In his debut novel 'Keepers of Light', Chris Salmon brings an authentic Australian voice to his lovable characters. Genuine, humorous, and at times downright funny, this book is a heart-warmer. Presenting issues such as ageing, euthanasia, and the collision of cultures caused by British settlement, the work is also deeply thought-provoking. 'Keepers of Light' has the ability to reach across the generations and touch the heart of all Australians.
