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play0:00 / 28:43“Journeys and Jigsaws” is the title of the first of a series of novels by Barrie Mahoney. Although not autobiographical, the book draws u...-
BarrieMahoney “Journeys and Jigsaws” is the title of the first of a series of novels by Barrie Mahoney. Although not autobiographical, the book draws upon many of the incidents that Barrie experienced as teacher, headteacher, school inspector and journalist. 'Journeys and Jigsaws' follows the early career of a young headteacher, James Young, and his appointment to a village school in crisis. The novel deals with the many challenges and hard won successes faced in increasing pupil numbers and bringing the school back to financial viability, as well as keeping the villagers happy. Glimpses of easy going village school life in the days before the National Curriculum and school tests, include the chaos caused in the village when James decided to remove the school stage, a near riot when the school swimming pool is closed. However, there is support for James from a surprising source when his own personal life hits crisis point. The novel also deals with entrenched attitudes and misunderstandings relating to HIV/AIDS and public expectation of professional people living and working in a parochial and inward looking community in the 1980’s. 'Journeys and Jigsaws' explores the complex relationships between people who do not fit into society’s expectation of them. Lies, suppressed feelings and desires in a remote, feudal village are exposed, leaving many hurt, betrayed and broken. The book chronicles the attempts of the main characters to achieve self worth and to become part of this backward looking society, despite being different. The book also reflects on how most people are different to each other, and celebrates these challenges. 'Journeys and Jigsaws' by Barrie Mahoney. ISBN: 9781843865384
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BarrieMahoney Barrie's interview with Charlie Crocker on her BBC Radio Solent show about his first popular novel, 'Journeys and Jigsaws'.
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BarrieMahoney Synopsis: Prior’s Hill in the early 1980’s seems like a tranquil rural idyll, with its picture postcard cottages, small village school and church. James Young, the new head teacher of the village primary school, soon discovers that beneath the surface there are some difficult challenges to overcome. He must contend with demanding parents and local politics, as well as the steep learning curve that comes with his new position. While struggling to hold together his team of teachers and deal with various tasks that aren’t in his official job description, James must also find the time and energy to maintain his relationship with his beloved partner. Ultimately he is faced with the most difficult questions: Can he live up to everything the school and community expect of him? Can he deal with the tragedy that is thrown at him just when everything seems to be working so well? What steps will he take to resolve all these challenges? In an original and thought-provoking novel, Barrie Mahoney paints a vivid picture of the complexities of life in a small English village, as well as providing an insight into the challenges faced by gay, professional men at a time when prejudice and the threat of AIDS loomed large. Journeys and Jigsaws ISBN: 9781843865384 Publisher: Pegasus Elliot MacKenzie About the author: Barrie Mahoney worked as a teacher and headteacher in the south west of England, and quickly fell in love with the area. Later, he became a school inspector in England and Wales, and had the privilege of visiting many different schools. Barrie’s work in schools enabled him to witness many amusing incidents, and to listen to children’s views about life and the world in general. A new life and career as a reporter in Spain’s Costa Blanca, led Barrie and his partner to launching and editing an English language newspaper in the Canary Islands, where he now lives enjoying life in the sun as a writer and author. www.barriemahoney.com
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BarrieMahoney Like so many ex-pats living in the Canary Islands and Spain, I love receiving post from home. Be it a letter or postcard from friends or family, or maybe the occasional magazine; it is good to know that we have not been forgotten. Although there is no shortage of quality shopping opportunities in the Canary Islands, I am a strong supporter of the delights of Amazon and the QVC Shopping Channel and I am often tempted to order the occasional book, DVD or latest gadget on-line. www.barriemahoney.com
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