Andrew Comber

Welcome readers...

I was born in the South Lakeland area of England's picturesque Lake District, which has been the inspiring home for a number of renowned writers, including William Wordsworth, Thomas De Quincey, John Ruskin and Beatrice Potter. For me however, the Lakelands were not to be my home for long. An involuntary child immigrant to Canada, I grew up in the province of Ontario, which like most places in the world, hold its own inspiring places.

Although I demonstrated an interest in writing and photography in my youth, through correspondence, some written reflections and poetry; I am a latecomer to writing and the creative works we call books. My interest in writing was further inspired by my friend, writer and poet Cathy Collinson (do check out her works). And encouraged and supported by my family, I returned to school as an adult student to study photojournalism, in the highly-regarded program at Loyalist College, in Belleville, Ontario. There, I learned I had some untapped and natural abilities, confirmed by a number of awards and scholarships. So, for you late bloomers, that should encourage you to pursue your dreams and passions, whatever creative arts inspire you.

Before attempting my first novel, I worked a number of years as a freelance journalist and photojournalist, published in a number of magazines and newspapers. That brought me in contact with a number of notable Canadians, including astronaut Chris Hadfield, actress, comedian and writer Mary Walsh, and our last four prime ministers up to Justin Trudeau - though I'm not sure politicians qualify as notable. But, the most fascinating people I've encountered over the years are not so well known; humanitarians, conservationists, and everyday folk with loads of creative talents in all forms of art. Everyone has a story - that's been my experience - and I've been fortunate to be able to put a spotlight on those "not so well known."

My own reading interests have been mostly non-fiction; history in general, but with the main focus on the human experiences, collectively and as individuals. But I always inspired to write a fictional novel, somewhat how I'd rather play baseball than watch it as a spectator. It's a very rewarding experience each time I complete a book. And each project encourages me to refine and perfect my skills as a writer and photographer.

That's a little of my story. What is yours?