Since I published "The Decline," I have had some truly surreal (and incredibly humbling) experiences. Being able to host a book launch at my favourite Uptown destination Cask & Kettle Irish Gastropub, seeing my novel on the shelf at Indigo and Coles for the first times, being interviewed on CBC Information morning, getting a shout out from local funny man James Mullinger and finding out the cover was included in a mural in a local area school are among my personal & cherished favourites.

Today, I am privileged to be able to share another milestone with you. #TheDecline is being taught as part of the syllabus in a UNBSJ 3rd year English course centering around speculative fiction, and I have been offered an invitation to speak with those students about the work.

When I first had the notion to write a book (several drinks in, I might add), my wife Jillian didn't even laugh at me and encouraged me throughout. I've had many friends lend their time, thoughts and experiences during its creation. Never in a thousand years would I have expected this process to have been so fun, challenging, and meaningful.

Thank you, sincerely. I may never be able to retire on it, but it has been an absolute pleasure of a ride.

#gratitude #humbled #indie #author