A Broad Abroad: Carpets in Jerusalem

Brought up in a devout Catholic household where the only newspapers purchased were The Daily Express and The News of the World, I knew just two conflicting 'facts' about this wonderful city: it was the place where Our Lord was crucified by the Jews, giving birth to Christianity; and yet, the Jews were a people to be pitied and supported: hated and mistreated throughout history, especially in WWII and latterly by the rest of the Middle East. In fact 'Jews good, Arabs bad' was one of the strongest political beliefs I'd had drummed in to me while growing up. 

Yet here I was, working in the Palestinian territories, with Arab businessmen. No wonder I was confused! 

If I Ruled The World...

I was asked to write this article for The Western Morning News and it was published yesterday. I had so much fun writing it, I thought I would share it more widely.

Elizabeth Chats With...Sophie Duffy

This month's guest describes herself as a novelist, mentor and teacher; and having seen her in all three roles, I can attest to how good she is in each of them. She is also a member of Exeter Writers; part of the highly-energetic Creative Writing Matters which runs the Exeter Novel Prize; and a former winner of both the Luke Bitmead Bursary and the Yeovil Literary prize. I'm delighted to be chatting with Sophie Duffy.

Why I Love My Work...

I was browsing the local newspaper yesterday morning when I came across one of those self-help articles so beloved of copy writers and readers everywhere. The title read: 5 Ways to Enjoy Your Work. Read any book or article on how to write attention-grabbing copy and you will find that titles with numbers in them; lists; and advice on how to improve one's lot are right up there at the top of attention-grabbing topics for blogs, lifestyle pieces and the like.