Chaos continues

I thought of saying that at the moment it’s like living in a war zone at our place. But I suspect residents of Ukraine and Gaza would envy my sort of war zone. Piles of furniture in the middle of rooms, wardrobes stuffed with books and ornaments so we can move bookshelves, occasional tables and so on. No blood, no bomb damage, no death. The plastering and painting have finished but carpets are due next week so there will be much moving of furniture. Last time we did this, in our previous house, it seemed to be easier. More room to put things, stronger, fitter bodies.

Meanwhile the Work in Progress (tentatively named The Dragon’s Hoard) is progressing. It has turned out to be rather longer than I’d expected but that’s not a bad thing. As it evolves the usual formula of history, mystery, politics and a dash of romance are becoming more obvious. Our leading couple have unexpected allies and the bad guys are getting closer. And yes, to my surprise, there’s politics. I wish I could write more in each session but what with the house and the world in turmoil, there are distractions.

Besides, between bouts of creativity, I’m re-reading Pratchett. At the moment it’s The Wee Free Men.

It’s ostensibly a kid’s book since the protagonist is a 9 year old girl. It is in my opinion one of the best kid’s books ever written. It’s about a little girl finding out about herself – but that goes without saying. This is a different child, a loner who watches and learns by reading the dictionary. She was the youngest of six daughters until her little brother was born. She is often left to look after him. And she resents it. She was closest to her grandmother who died when she was seven and there are many flashbacks to what Tiffany learned from the old woman. Being yourself, taking responsibility, coping with a little brother, and dealing with death and grief are all in here. As well as the fun stuff. It is very funny. Although it’s a Discworld novel it’s set in the sort of landscape you’d find in the downs around the Salisbury Plains in England.

I’ve also re-read Pyramids.

I’ve always thought it was one of the funniest Discworld books. It’s a wonderful send-up of Ancient Egyptian gods and religion. Even the name of the kingdom on the great river Djel is fun. Djelibeybi. (Say it out loud)

And since we’re talking about books, have I mentioned I’ve published my story from Pets in Space 9 as a stand-alone?