Canongate to Cannon Shell
Description
"Canongate to Cannon Shell," a novella included in this book, was the author's first big story that grew into a fitting title for this entire compilation. It was born out of interest in and a family connection to one of the many casualties of "the war to end all wars." The novella (one of four in the book) brings to life the aftermath of the 1916 Easter Rising in Dublin, told through the eyes of Joe Donoghue, a soldier who ends up on a firing squad.
Other stories (with a couple of poems thrown in for good measure) follow a Scottish family through generations of military service, a pilot's last mission, a Japanese soldier's experiences as he survives World War II, modern situations of ethnic discrimination, a time travelling fantasy and much more! You'll just have to read the rest to find out!
Each of these stories were inspired by the author's heritage, her passions, and experiences. With an impish grin, she will tell you that the characters themselves spoke to her as she wrote each one.
More details
Person
Patricia Donoghue, writing under the nom de plume of G.B. Carmichael, was born in Edinburgh in the fabulous fifties. Now living on the south coast of England, she has three wonderful children who have grown into the most beautiful adults in spite of her. She is "Nana" to four boys and two girls ? with another grandchild on the way.
Her life has included time as a bookie's clerk, training as a person-centred psychologist (working in a converted toilet in a prison), and her own highland regalia and instrument business.
She was invited to join the London Scots Regimental Band in Italy in 2008, who were invited to play all along the Piave River and in Venice's St. Mark's Square to commemorate the last battles of World War I.
