Based on real events of one family's search for the truth, Under the Stairs is an aching saga told across time, told through the generations of one family; their unconditional love for each other and their determination to answer the question we all want to know the answer to - Who am I?
In the Blood traces the relationship of two brothers through childhood to adulthood and in and out of institutions to reveal the intricate, often hidden bonds that are broken and forged by the effects of mental illness. In his debut full-length collection, former City of New Westminster Poet Laureate Alan Hill delivers a deeply revealing and heartfelt depiction of a lifetime of mental illness--both his own and that of his brother. In the Blood traces the brothers' relationship from childhood to adulthood, and how his brother's diagnosis became inextricably intertwined with Hill's own mental health struggles. As his brother spends much of his life in and out of institutions, Hill grapples with his own guilt, shame, and loss. Moving from the past to the present and back again, In the Blood is a search for meaning and comfort in the confusion of childhood and the untethered searching of adulthood. With stark vulnerability, Hill reveals the intricate and often hidden bonds that are both broken and established by mental illness and pushes toward a form of relief, release, and recovery.
Winner of the Cricket Society Literary Award, this vivid biography charts the life of one of the all-time cricketing greats.
Biography of a Surrey and England great by one of cricket's foremost writers
Left with only one sister Jayne, and seven legs after an encounter with a neighbour, Sid the spider's life is turned on its web when Jayne is whisked into a house after an incident with a crow.
Exploring the multifaceted nature of love, Alan Hill's fourth poetry collection delves into relationships with partners, fathers, and cities, highlighting the contradictions and complexities inherent in these connections. Through accessible and engaging verse, Hill crafts a poetic map that guides readers on a journey toward deeper understanding and respect, making the exploration of contemporary life both relatable and profound.
A Boy Called Arsenal is an honest and emotional true story about a man who, after a life-long battle with mental and physical problems, finally became diagnosed with autism at the age of forty-nine in 2011. The catalyst for his diagnosis was his daughter's attempted suicide, which drove this troubled man to finally get the help he needed.
Brian Close was the wonder boy of English cricket: the youngest ever Test debutant aged 18, a record he still holds; captain of Yorkshire, Somerset and England; and hailed by the press as "the biggest discovery in post-war cricket". But others found it hard to deal with Close's attitude, and he was dogged by bad luck - or bad management - throughout his career that became an astonishing sequence of triumphs and disasters. An instinctive and masterful player and strategist, he took Yorkshire on a meteoric ascent to success, but catastrophe was not far behind. Elevated to the national captaincy, it was all swept away by the infamous "timewasting" incident - but he returned to glory against the mighty West Indians. Refusing to wear a helmet, body armour or even gloves against the fiercest bowling, Close has always fought on, earning himself a permanent place in the annals of the game. Alan Hill has talked to Close himself, his friends and family, colleagues and critics in creating this account of this most controversial personality in English cricket's recent history
Trevor Bailey, a three-time Ashes winner, is celebrated as one of England's top all-rounders post-World War II. His journey began as a schoolboy prodigy at Dulwich College and continued with accolades in both cricket and soccer at Cambridge University, alongside an FA Amateur Cup victory. The narrative highlights his unwavering loyalty and fighting spirit, showcasing his significant contributions to England and Essex during challenging times, ultimately portraying him as an iconic figure in cricket history.
Focusing on the life of an aggressive left-arm spinner, this biography explores Tony Lock's cricketing prowess during Surrey's County Championship victories from 1952 to 1958, highlighting his dynamic partnership with Jim Laker. It delves into the controversy surrounding "throwing" in the 1960s, his subsequent move to Australia, and his successful coaching career. Additionally, it addresses the serious allegations he faced later in life, ultimately affirming that Lock's legacy in cricket overshadows these events, portraying him as both a complex individual and a remarkable athlete.