<p><em>The seventeen short stories</em> in this collection will entertain, delight and intrigue. Some tales are poignant, others whimsical, and then there are those that display a sharp sense of humour and pointed observations. Each one features a colourful cast of characters, many of them brought vividly to life with the rich and varied dialects that the author includes in his writing. His musical talents give him an exceptional ear for accents, while his own travels and experiences have resulted in well-drawn atmospheres and settings for his work.</p><p>Through these stories, the reader is transported from Birmingham to New Zealand, Ireland to Gloucestershire's Forest of Dean, and Herefordshire to the Marches - as well as places of the imagination.</p><p>From ballet to high-spirited saints; music to alien encounters; and not forgetting love, loss, religion, fantasy and much mischief, a veritable assortment of themes and topics are featured. Written over a wide period from 1962 to the present day, these fictional tales also reflect changing times and attitudes. Prepare to read on and enjoy.</p>