Thanks so much for writing this and sharing your personal memories of Alan. I first met Alan when he came to Cobourg to give a reading. It would have been his first or second book. The first thing he said when I introduced myself was, that in 1957 (grade 10) when I was Ado Annie in a somewhat abridged version of Oklahoma, (in his words) he was the lowly sound and lighting guy while I was one of the stars. Typically modest Alan! I had to admit I didn't remember him. We started corresponding first when he was living in Malta and then when he and his wife moved to the Isle of Mann. Even though I was never remotely close to his status and accelerating reputation, he was always supportive and congratulatory when I had a new book out. My heart goes out to his widow as I am in the same category as of 2 1/2 years ago. I do hope her family was able to join her for support. I would imagine, as his last book was coming out in November, readings and appearances were already booked. I was so glad to read he was able to watch a final cut of the movie. I look forward to the last book and to seeing the movie. Thanks again.
Hi Linda - Nice to read that story. I have a 1953-54 CDCI East Yearbook - my father was in grade 12. Alan is in that one and it says about him "our walking jokebook."
Hi Mike - I loved the Flavia series. I have a brass bell on my bicycle with the name 'Gladys' engraved on it (from a friend who visited a bell works in the English countryside). I've been thinking I'd like to revisit the books. Now I'll be thinking about your connection to the author and the stories as I do.
Michael, this is so very well written, all about my cousin, and your first cousin Alan. I enjoyed the links and the extra information. I guess I better get reading the rest of his books.
Thanks so much for writing this and sharing your personal memories of Alan. I first met Alan when he came to Cobourg to give a reading. It would have been his first or second book. The first thing he said when I introduced myself was, that in 1957 (grade 10) when I was Ado Annie in a somewhat abridged version of Oklahoma, (in his words) he was the lowly sound and lighting guy while I was one of the stars. Typically modest Alan! I had to admit I didn't remember him. We started corresponding first when he was living in Malta and then when he and his wife moved to the Isle of Mann. Even though I was never remotely close to his status and accelerating reputation, he was always supportive and congratulatory when I had a new book out. My heart goes out to his widow as I am in the same category as of 2 1/2 years ago. I do hope her family was able to join her for support. I would imagine, as his last book was coming out in November, readings and appearances were already booked. I was so glad to read he was able to watch a final cut of the movie. I look forward to the last book and to seeing the movie. Thanks again.
Hi Linda - Nice to read that story. I have a 1953-54 CDCI East Yearbook - my father was in grade 12. Alan is in that one and it says about him "our walking jokebook."
Hi Mike - I loved the Flavia series. I have a brass bell on my bicycle with the name 'Gladys' engraved on it (from a friend who visited a bell works in the English countryside). I've been thinking I'd like to revisit the books. Now I'll be thinking about your connection to the author and the stories as I do.
I walked by the Queen Mother Cafe at lunch time today and thought about the time our little group met up there.
Ha! I'd love to be transported back to that bowl of hungarian mushroom soup, maybe just for a moment.
So fabulous!
Michael, this is so very well written, all about my cousin, and your first cousin Alan. I enjoyed the links and the extra information. I guess I better get reading the rest of his books.