Back of Beyond

Life in the wilds of the Welsh Marches, surrounded by nature and beset by harsh challenges

Subtle shades of landscape and light changing throughout the year; ravens tumbling overhead and returning swallows gathering mud to build their nests …. all woven into a

humorous yet heart-rending account of life interwoven with nature.

This tale of running a bed and breakfast in the Shropshire Hills, reveals a learning curve of mistakes and challenges set against the ever-present beauty of the natural world, until the cruel intervention of motor neurone disease darkens the idyll.

An inspirational affirmation of life and intimate engagement with nature which reveals its own complex and powerful character. Small cameos of wild things are sharply observed, written with real love and illustrated with exquisite drawings.

Living with the Covid pandemic, climate change and deteriorating health, — not to mention an unforgettable kaleidoscope of two, four and six legged guests — each episode of this rural life is faced with wry humour, courage and resourcefulness, deepening the sense of life’s value.

Those who care for the natural world and our environment will warm to this profoundly moving story.