Vikings raided, settled, and persuaded;
Flags waved, distances faded.
Outliers passed over seas – islanders no more;
Old words and legends floated on seas of time.
Joy and separation folded together;
Historic sights of sites recalled;
Steps go up, and up, and up;
These dots of green on rock feed our souls.
This land: home.
Soap Street needs a wash.
High Street is looking low.
Bank Street took my dosh.
Fast Lane is moving slow.
Maine Road has closed down.
Swan Street is full of geese.
Paradise Close makes me frown.
Winter Hill, I wore no fleece.
The Road With No Name has a sign.
Sandylands is grassy still.
Bendy Lane runs in a line.
Calm House, what a thrill!
Scotland Hall Road, hall-less.
The Soapbox, stood down.
Ice Rink, only at Christmas.
Circus Walk, devoid of a clown.
Welcome to Manchester.
Now get out!
Head of Zeus publishers release The Spy Across the Water by James Naughtie caught my eye through its cover. Between the covers unfurls an intricate web of intrigue via a fascinating yarn of espionage and loyalty. The backdrop of a familiar Cold War sees our protagonist’s pathways into a dangerous game of intelligence and counterintelligence. Trust is a rare commodity. However, through Naughtie’s evocative and gripping writing, tension rises and falls, maintaining a grip on the reader whilst bringing to life a Cold War era uncertainty.
Fans of Mitch Rapp (Vince Flynn), Jack Reacher (Lee Child), and James Bond (Ian Fleming) will find the characters make it a compelling read that will resonate with fans of spy fiction. Naughtie’s pace of plot plods along through intellectually stimulating layers of authentic tension and historical accuracy. This book, with lead Will Flemyng, is a must-read for anyone who enjoys sophisticated spy stories that challenge the mind and keep the reader engaged from start to finish.
James Naughtie is a BBC special correspondent deeply knowledgeable in democracy and respected throughout his field, except for on X (Twitter) because nobody is respected there. Not even the dead.
Now, it’s time to find the previous books in the series… The Madness of July and Paris Spring shall follow, even though they’re prequels to the book I’ve just read.
Katie Flynn’s A Mother’s Secret is a heartwarming tale that delves deep into the themes of love, resilience, and family bonds. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the novel follows the life of a young mother struggling to protect her family and safeguard her secrets. Flynn’s evocative writing and well-drawn characters make for a compelling read that is both touching and inspiring. This book is a testament to the enduring strength of maternal love and the sacrifices made during challenging times.
Interestingly, as I expected, the book’s author is a continuation of her work via her daughter. Katie Flynn’s enduring name lives through her daughter Holly. Holly rips into the work, delivering a glimpse of historical detail, life for the working classes, and the trials and triumphs of Wartime Britain. Katie Flynn, a pen-name of Norwich-born Judith Turner, passed away in 2019, after 82 years of life that threw a catalogue of books our way.
A Mother’s Secret draws tender attention to details, emotional struggles, and a secret with the odd unexpected twist. Love, loss, and redemption are portrayed in both a realistic and evocative way. Lessons about the strength required to confront and overcome past mistakes shine throughout the novel. The plot, however, lacks jeopardy in its delivery. That does no damage, as the focus of a mother’s love stands tall.
Island in the Sun by Katie Fforde is a feel-good novel. I get why it’s popular. The age-old tried and tested niceties of its contents are visible from the cover to the blurb. It isn’t for me. That also applies to Keane, although this band does have some gorgeous tunes that are worthy of many playlists, including my own. If you like uplifting stories and music, pair up this novel with Keane’s Hopes and Fears.
“We’re spiraling; We’re tumbling down. We’re spiraling; Tied up to the ground.” – Keane lyrics, Spiralling
Usually, I would’t pick this kind of book up. Island in the Sun by Katie Fforde is a warm and enchanting story that transports readers to a beautiful, sun-drenched island. The book’s themes of love, self-discovery, and new beginnings are beautifully explored through the eyes of the protagonist, whose journey from uncertainty to confidence is both relatable and inspiring. The island setting serves as a perfect backdrop for the blossoming romance and the personal growth that occurs throughout the story. I also wouldn’t usually be found listening to Keane for too long.
Attending Keane’s 20th anniversary tour of their debut album, Hopes and Fears, was a pleasure. The tunes are melodic, the fans impassioned, and the band itself, divine. Tom Chapman, on lead vocals, alongside Tim Rice-Oxley and Jesse Quin, sit on the softer edge of rock, somewhere between indie and soul, and all the other gentle musical genres. Slow to mid-tempo rarely jump up beyond their distorted piano and instruments, but it works. Somewhere Only We Know is a gorgeous ballad. My sister Astrid was certainly enjoying the gig. She seemed to know every lyric instinctively. If ever Tom Chapman needs a break, Astrid is ready and waiting.
“I hold you in cupped hands; And shield you from a storm; Where only some dumb idiot; Would let you go.” – Keane, Sunshine lyrics
The Katie Fforde book is highly recommended for fans of feel-good romance novels, especially those who enjoy stories set in idyllic locations. It’s a perfect summer read for anyone looking to escape into a world of love and sunshine. I am not sure that I would pick this book up again. Much like the novel by Katie Fforde, the band Keane is sun-soaked, cheery, and filled to the brim with credible content. It is easy to imagine scenes of the book with the background music, This Is the Last Time. It doesn’t mean I won’t be revisiting the author’s or band’s works.
Katie Fforde’s Island in the Sun is a charming novel beautifully capturing both the themes of second chances and rediscovery. Richly drawn characters take a journey through a central landscape of warmth and magic. Dollops of personal growth land alongside love found at an older age. Expect whimsical blends of romance throughout vivid escapism. Much like the lyrics of Keane, satisfyingly atmospheric moments will occur. Perfect symmetry, indeed. Keane’s gig was postponed, much like the opening of Coop Live in Manchester. The wait was well worth it. An emotional Tom Chapman cut the stage-audience interactions perfectly, and on reflection, Keane delivered fantastically.
The Death of Stalin is a black comedy that perfectly encapsulates Armando Iannucci’s signature style, blending absurdity with biting political satire in a screen adaption of a graphic novel. La Mort de Staline, by writer Fabien Nury and illustrator Thierry Robin, deserves more recognition. Set in the chaotic aftermath of Joseph Stalin’s death in 1953, the film offers a darkly humorous look at the power struggles among the then Soviet leadership. Iannucci’s other notable works, such as The Thick of It and In the Loop, each enjoy thematic similarities and differences.
In simple detail, The Death of Stalin follows the Soviet Union’s top officials as they scramble to fill the power vacuum left by Stalin’s sudden demise and death. The plot is infused with Iannucci’s sharp wit and keen eye for political absurdity, reminiscent of his previous stylish works. In The Thick of It and its film adaptation In the Loop, Iannucci dissects British and American politics with a similar ruthless humour, portraying politicians as self-serving and often inept. See also Boris Johnson et al. While Veep focuses on the American political system, it shares the same core of farcical incompetence and backstabbing, as seen in Real Life™.
Through an ensemble cast of The Death of Stalin features standout performances from Steve Buscemi as Nikita Khrushchev and Simon Russell Beale as the sinister Lavrentiy Beria. These characters are far greater morally ambiguous and menacing than the bumbling politicians of other works. While Malcolm Tucker (played by Peter Capaldi) is ruthless in his own right, his malevolence is played for comedic effect rather than genuine threat. The characters in The Death of Stalin are more multifaceted, with their comedic traits underscored by a palpable sense of danger. You wouldn’t invite any of them over for tea! Michael Palin and Paul Whitehouse blend in with a cast so strong that everyone and every moment could stand out, yet overall, the tapestry is enriched by presence in force.
Unlike the contemporary settings of Iannucci’s previous works, The Death of Stalin is rooted in a specific watershed historical period, which adds an educational layer to the satire. Iannucci balances historical accuracy with his comedic narrative, offering viewers a glimpse into a tumultuous time while maintaining his distinct style. This historical angle distinguishes the film from his other projects, providing a unique backdrop that enhances the absurdity of the characters’ actions.
The aesthetics and visual style of The Death of Stalin are more polished and cinematic compared to the handheld, almost documentary-like feel of The Thick of It. The production design authentically recreates 1950s Soviet Union, contributing to the film’s immersive quality. This attention to detail contrasts with the more contemporary and less stylized settings of Veep and The Thick of It, highlighting Iannucci’s versatility as a director.
Iannucci’s humor is dark and unflinching in The Death of Stalin, perhaps more so than in his earlier projects. The stakes are higher, with characters facing life-or-death consequences rather than just career setbacks. This adds a layer of tension absent amongst his television productions, where the political blunders are often played for laughs without such dire outcomes. The macabre humour in The Death of Stalin reflects the brutalised reality of Stalinist Russia yet still finds absurdity in the paranoia and sycophancy of its characters. As such this movie stands out.
This Armando Iannucci film grips through historical context, darker humour, and higher stakes. While it shares the sharp wit and satirical edge of his earlier works, the film delves far deeper into the sinister aspects of political power. Fans of his familiar comedic elements should also be prepared for a more intense and historically grounded experience. Iannucci successfully adapts his style to this new setting, slowly and carefully delivering a film that is harrowing and hilarious, solidifying his reputation as a master of political satire.
“And the past belongs to everyone.” – Professor Alice Roberts, Ancestors.
I must confess that this burgundy bestseller of a book sat on my shelf for far too long. Gifted by Mum and Paul, in Christmas 2022, it lay on a shelf devoted to books that I will read. Eventually.
Slowly and surely, like the remains of an ancient body arriving at the tip of an archaeological trowel, the book departed the shelf and found eyes upon it. Dusting down the top, it opened, unfurling mysteries, tales, and fables, alongside cutting edge sciences and graphic use of vocabulary.
Professor Alice Roberts first caught my attention on BBC’s Coast, and since then, a variety of television shows. I have a crush on her intellectual prowess and passion for her chosen field of expertise. I love how a bright spark seeks newness, raw knowledge, and extrapolates ideas, developing within a text or a show, or in the good Professor’s case, as a person.
Exploring neolithic, Iron Age, Bronze Ages, and a whole layer of timeliness, British history, human remains, personalities such as Pitt Rivers, and conflicting progressives explore our Before Common Era. Here, Roberts explains the dangers of assumption and the pitfalls of satisfying a narrative.
Final confession time. I spent time savouring this read over a few weeks, intertwining my reading amongst other books. Overall, essential reading is all about exploring a genre or topic of unfamiliar ideas. I am now neither expert nor amateur, but like an archaeologicalist digging ploughed Wiltshire soil, I have a sound glimpse into the past.
Praise is enough for some. Others need more motivation. Some distrust reward. Whether a student, a teaching mentor or a teacher, reward goes a long way. The buzz of recognition is empowering. In the past and present, behaviour management systems have often focused on punishments over recompense. Nowadays, education looks at ways to place guerdon over burden.
“central component of habit formation” (Wood and Neal, 2016, p.73)
If the stake of a decoration and honour is visible, students may be more motivated to perform, stay on task or give fuller focus to earn their winnings. Conformity by most students may follow. With that boot students may engage with a higher level of interest, get stuck in and participate more diligently. Most of us will understand that a tangible goal and deadlines add a sense of urgency to our responsibilities. Dangle a carrot and stick, and suddenly better work may be produced.
“Only rewards that promote the repetition of specific actions contribute to habit formation” (Wood and Neal, 2016, p.75)
Pride is a sin, yet humility can counteract such worries. To have pride is fine, just keep it beneath excessive. We all feel a warm tingle of joy when our efforts are appreciated by others, whether that’s in the classroom or a game of football or a pub quiz in Irene’s Bar (Houjie, Dongguan). Achievements matter. They boost morale and are powerful classroom tools of remuneration. Success can be tangible and increase self-esteem, ideally leading to self-confidence and belief in raising a student’s game. Once-believed hard-targets suddenly become possibly achievable, and barriers can fall over like dominoes.
“He who wished to secure the good of others, has already secured his own.” – Kǒngzǐ (孔子 Confucius), Chinese philosopher
When persuading a student, every teacher must be critical of their own methods. Rewards, like learning should be exciting, engaging and appropriate. If you want your student to be the best version of themselves, then you must incite the best practice for yourself. Only then will you be able to induce the optimum classroom conditions for students to actuate improvements. To improve at home or in the classroom, a clear system of reward can drive students to squeeze out that extra bead of sweat in their efforts. Students who push themselves can see their final work improve and their efforts gain clearer progress.
“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” – Princess Diana
Of course, when prompting students, it must be a system that avoids greed. Dependence upon rewards can instil the wrong behaviours. Knowing when a scheme is prone to manipulation is important. Likewise, think about how the student may feel manipulated by something they may associate with as an early learning structure of rewarding. Does it appear like a bribe? The systems also need to consider the view of decreased value of the motivational bounty. The prize novelty cannot be over-stimulating and cause a student to shoot wide of the learning goal. Missing the point is counterproductive. Does the arrangement of reward also trigger further pressure? Is the pace, right? Is the task something a student’s working memory or ability will be capable of or incapable of completing? How can expectations be met if the task is too challenging? Whilst we look at advantages, we must be fully aware of disadvantages.
“…students could develop reward addiction.” – The Influence of School’s Reward Systems on Students’ Development, Zihan Chen, 2023
Effective rewards system need full consideration, weighing up pros and cons, to spur on, influence and activate student motivation. Each teacher or mentor reaches a class and gets the most out of students in differing ways. The fluidity of the teaching strategies and response by students will mean some methods work, some do not. Applying adaptive teaching and strategies within reward schemes should bridge the gap to stimulate, propel and inspire students and bring them from their slumber into a world of active reading and attention. How will you provoke yours?
“Man gives you the award, but God gives you the reward.” – Denzel Washington, actor
Ideas to consider as reward options:
| a visit to the library | achievement points towards a gift voucer | play a chosen music video to the class | earn a physical reward e.g. pens, pencil cases, etc. | play games |
| earn a snack or treat | choose an activity outside of the classroom | read quietly in a different space | change seats | watch movies |
| extra break time or outside walking time | choose a partner for a homework task | become a teacher’s helper for a set period | complete homework in class | share games |
| take home a postcard, reference book or game | choice of class chore or duty | custom-made bookmark, badge, school equipment | cancel homework for a class | share a story |
| a phone call home | teacher reads to the class | choose new books for the school to buy | school trips to the local library | school trips to a writing or literacy-related museum or tourist attraction |
All the above were suggestions by our reading and writing club students.
Nota bene: allow students to be part of the process and choose their reward?
Further reading:
Introduction
Before the 2023 summer holidays ended, I planned for the 2023/24 academic year, within the role and remit of the Literacy Mentor. A Padlet noticeboard started as out as a few scrappy ideas and a clutter of things to consider. As the year went on, I tracked the progress in many ways. Looking back is a way of looking forward. A good way to track changes, evaluate and expand ideas.
Hypothesis
Predictions for the outcome are dependent upon active engagement from students, applied alongside that of rigorous and well-compiled materials. To this end, it is predictable that an increase in reading engagement is forecastable.
Methods
| Active Reading | That Reading Thing | In Class Support | Book Club | Writing Club |
| Inference and vocabulary-based tasks from an active reading booklet, tailored to the specific needs of the students. | Students work from sound to print using age-appropriate vocabulary and authentic reading material. The method is rooted in linguistic phonics but has grown its own way of working with older learners for the fastest possible results. | An instructional arrangement in which a paraprofessional provides education services in the general education setting, to allow students to access the materials and develop their ideas. Metacognitive techniques, Active Reading, etc. can be applied. | Reading For Pleasure’s masthead allows exploration of text and words for a small group, but is promoted to the entire school community, through modelling, displays and visibility. | |
Results
Active Reading results largely demonstrated an upward turn. Results were shared internally and to the school governors.
Reading For Pleasure has been researched and implemented in greater depth than the autumn-winter term. Below are some highlights:
In Class Support was provided across year 10 and 11 classes. All students completed entry assessments (YARC). Due to impending GCSEs and other assessments, no exit assessment was completed. This is something to amend for the future.
Form time reading groups Year 10 (Friday) and Year 11 (Wednesday) have completed their Active Reading booklets. Year 10 Tuesday has been affected by behaviour barriers, with the challenging students removed, allowing others to continue uninterrupted. Future provision for disruptive students and how to support them better would need to be considered.
That Reading Thing (TRT) allowed one student to be considered a model of success. Documented spelling, grammar and reading (with inference skills) have been logged. He has developed a great sense of reading for pleasure and is turning into a bookworm. That student had attempted writing book reviews, poetry and article writing, to deepen his TRT experience. It is arguable that he could leave the TRT sessions, however, to further good habits and create encouragement throughout this academic year, he will remain with the TRT programme.
One student joined TRT, and at first, was receptive and engaged. He eventually felt intimidated by one-to-one approach. Said student eventually scored highly in YARC, LAO assessments and NGRT – allowing him to exit TRT. He remains an at-risk student but was never truly in need of the TRT programme.
Another student resisted TRT from the offset. Again, this student was an at-risk student who likely would benefit from this programme. He was heavily influenced by a previous TRT student. As that TRT student left our school for another school, it may be feasible to reinstate that student into the TRT programme with less resistance.
Two further students joined TRT sessions on a Monday morning. Each made steady progression in efforts and output. Both require more sessions of TRT.
Conclusion
Due to reading comprehension being vitally important in secondary education, the active reading intervention is also important for educators to be mindful of because of the huge impact it can have on reading fluency as students transition from KS3 to KS4. The methods utilise a stacked approach of research-based methods, including reading aloud, assisted reading, and repeated reading in order to give students the chance to be active readers. In addition to this, it encourages reading habits for pleasure and curiosity by selecting appropriate and engaging materials.
Supplementing regular classroom instruction with Active Reading successfully accelerated the reading development of the vast majority of students. On the whole, the methods increased each student’s word recognition, automaticity, reading prosody, decoding skills, word knowledge, and reading comprehension. Focusing on phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension allows students to access a greater deal of text.
Evaluation
Strengths:
Opportunities:
Weaknesses:
Threats:
Further Evidence
Further evidence has been kept securely and privately within school, as per GDPR.
It’s like there is nothing left. I’m drained.
Between the breeze and the wind, upended.
Struggling against the tide as it drifts away.
Pushing on, step by step, yet sinking and never gaining ground.
The sapped life comes and goes. A moment’s joy evaporates.
I could have been better. It could have been better.
But, it’s not. It isn’t. It could be. I know it could be.
It could also have been far worse. It Feels this way.
Nothing worth doing is easy, right? So they say.
It hurts. It really bloody hurts. Like loss. Yet there’s no loss. Just hurdles.
The sky glows under a bright moon as lanterns drift upwards.
A glimmer. Just a flicker. That hope.
That energy I see in their faces. I can do this. I must. I will.
Just as faiths test their masses, I must believe. I have too much to lose.
For this, I am lucky.
Picking up a book, that usually I would never have picked up, one short story caught my eye. Then another. And another. Suddenly, I’d hit the halfway point of the annotated bilingual edition of the Selected Modern Chinese Essays 1.
The book, whilst a little gentle, rendered into英语 (English) by Zhang Peiji features a bland cover with a bare tree. The flimsy pages and cover almost feel disposable. Shanghai Foreign Language Education Press didn’t even supply a blurb on the 38RMB book. Never judge a book by its cover? Well, this book has all the appeal of a Mancunian skyline during the peak industrial revolution during a grey wintery rain shower.
“His name has spread far and wide and become more and more celebrated with the passing of time. Innumerable people have come to follow his example so that everybody has become a Mr. Cha Buduo.” – Mr About-the-Same – Hu Shih.
Despite the outward appearance and an inside cover telling you about the translator, little is given away as to the themes of the essays nor the 377 pages. So, reading on is the only way to delve deeper. First published in 2007, this edition arrived a decade later.
Through writing by the likes of Li Dazhao, Lu Xun, Xu Dishan, Hu Shih, Xia Mianzum, Ye Shengtao, Zhu Ziqing, Ba Jin and 24 other authors, I found myself transported from modern life to various times within Chinese history and at varied points of culture. Mosquitoes featured every now and then. Phrases and parodies of tales that I had heard clung to pages like my sweaty underwear in a Guangdong summer.
“A fighter is perennially young. He is never irresolute or inactive. He plunges deep into teeming crowds in search of such vermin as flies and venomous mosquitoes.” – Be a Fighter, Ba Jin*
Plenty of themes feature throughout, including hope, faith, and the need for family and friends. The book itself is deep in meaning and easily interpreted in many different ways. Rereading a few pages, I quickly realised how the Bible, the gospels, and other religious texts could be manipulated under one light or another. Books are powerful things. We should read more to understand more and always adapt or change to whatever life needs, rather than desires. Equally, we should read for pleasure in a diverse way.
I enjoyed something different.
*See also: Carpenter Lao Chen and Dreams but the same author, Ba Jin.
Prison population: 96%-ish men.
Least likely to attend a doctor’s surgery: males.
Homelessness and drug abuse: mostly guys.
Donald Trump: a bloke.
Putin, Hitler, Pol Pot, MZD, Boris Johnson: fellas.
Talks less than others about inner-self: fellows.
Hero complexes: mother’s son.
Inclusive of all, at football games: bro, boykie, boyfriend.
Thinks they’re always cool: cat.
Keepers of toxic masculinity: chap.
Reduced sense of importance, when hunter and inner self show weakness: gent.
More likely to dominate, be aggressive, or demonstrate xenophobia, racism, or homophobia: guess who?
Andy’s Man Club attendees: dudes.
So, is it “man up” or man down?
Never take a bull to a china shop. Equally, a toddler in a Chinese china museum and tourist spot is of little recommendation. Said toddler tumbling a plant pot into a fish pond, whilst trying to rip a leaf off a plant is quite an embarrassing happening.
Munching on hakka dim sum and 番石榴 Fān shíliú (Guava) with the sound of running water is quite relaxing. Even if the temperature is 33°C, with 75% humidity, presenting a real feel temperature of 40°C. On top of that, your body melts, runs with sweat, and staying hydrated is a priority. Beyond these minor issues, the state of relaxation as birds tweet, red dragonflies fly past and and butterflies flutter between the bamboo tufts. Mosquitoes feast relentlessly. Relaxing.
Wandering around the extensive ceramic kilns, wood carving lodges, farm restaurants, and sculptured gardens was relaxing. The whole arena is fenced off and reasonably safe if you keep an eye on the deep water, fragile articles, and sharp bits all over the floors and walls. Complimentary kittens are provided in one of the toilets, and a local waterfall at temple XiHeGuMiao (西河古庙) is a pleasant stroll up a steep concrete road. Eagles and other wildlife like frogs, tree frogs, snakes, and mosquitoes can be seen.
The restaurant provides cabins, lodges, and open areas for a range of local food cooked well and enjoyed with the ambience of a dark evening. There are turtles, cats, and a happy dog. The centre and studios offer pottery experiences, fan making, and other activities for all. A few hours can be had away from city life.
229.66m high isn’t much to an adult. But to a person of 83cm in height, it might as well be Mount Everest. That’s the gist of GaoBangShan mountain in Huizhou. A decent hill with a selection of pathways swoops around the summit. At the summit, a modern collection of Sinology, medicine experts, and important Chinese cultural architecture awaits.
Under moon and floodlights, it is highly recommended to blow bubbles like a fan of West Ham Utd. Expect to see bats, moths of various sizes, and shapes. The odd preying mantis amongst the night insects (mosquitoes included) can be found hunting alongside geckos and amphibians.
Smells range from dirty bins to humid dank dark paths lined with fragrant tropical flowers. At the summit and several points, the usual food outlets sell overpriced food and drinks. Beyond the hundreds of steps, lighting and piped music fill the air opening to the northern skyline of Huizhou and its surroundings. Your heightened awareness grows under tree canopies. Their umbrella canvas with limited lighting along the lower pathways shades out the light pollution beyond the treetops. It cakes those who walk beneath in humidity.
The steps up are a struggle. They’re uneven, yet modern. Each step appears slippery, and with damp patches of leaves and giant snails throughout, they’ll test the best sporting footwear. The knobbly-bits of pebbles on some footpath interludes are equally perilous. All part of the parcel in a dark park walk. The dense foliage, abundant with local species, although manicured at the path edge, gives an authentic taste of more wilder parkland.
For a few hours of wandering, the park features toilets at the foot of the main gate pathways, a few temple structures, and benches here and there. It is a short distance from Xihu (West Lake) in Huizhou. Xiao Crocodile Lake and Luoshan mountain are visible from the rear of the mountain. The name GaoBang means something to do with first and study, I’m told. When the Chinese Gaokao exams happen, many family people and students come and ask for good luck. The moon over the hill looks pretty, and a nightwalk is most recommended, even in the heat of summer.
Address: 惠州市惠城區江南街道共聯東路紅花湖景區附近
[INTENSE MUSIC BUILDS]
Liam Gallagher as Narrator (deep, commanding voice):
In a world where precision meets power…
Where every touch can change the course of history…
One man stands at the heart of the action.
[CUT TO: A football pitch, Ilkay Gündoğan in slow motion, controlling the ball with effortless grace]
Narrator:
He’s the maestro, the conductor of the beautiful game.
From Dortmund to Manchester, and now to Barcelona…
He’s taken on the world’s greatest challenges.
[CUT TO: Gündoğan threading a perfect pass, the crowd roaring.]
Narrator:
But it’s not just skill that sets him apart…
It’s the vision, the leadership, and the heart of a champion.
[CUT TO: Gündoğan lifting the Champions League trophy, eyes focused.]
Narrator:
This August, get ready to witness the next chapter…
As Ilkay Gündoğan steps onto the grandest stage once more. But where?
[CUT TO: Close-up of Gündoğan, determination in his eyes.]
Ilkay Gündoğan (voiceover):
“This isn’t just a game. It’s my passion, my life. And I’m just getting started.”
[FINAL CUT: A powerful shot of Gündoğan striking the ball, the screen fades to black.]
Narrator:
Ilkay Gündoğan.
The midfield maestro. Mr Whippy.
Coming soon to a stadium near you?
[END WITH THE SOUNDS OF A CHEERING CROWD, TITLE CARD APPEARS: “GÜNDOĞAN: THE GAME CHANGER”]
Drip, drop, drip, rain begins to fall,
A soggy blanket over us all.
Pitter-patter, drop, drop, plop, it’s quite absurd,
Each raindrop whispers a moistened quiet word.
Many flowers giggle, the trees all prance and dance,
Worms pop up, taking their chance.
A puddle forms, a tiny sparkling sea –
A stranded haven for boats made of leaves, yippee, yippee!
Splash, splosh, splish, what a watery flowing treat,
Raindrops tip-tap-dancing over the street.
Forget not your brolly, dear old chap,
Or just you might drown in your very own lap!
The rain it mocks, it rattles, it laughs, it jeers,
Sneaking down necks, alongside strands of hair, tickling ears.
But oh, dear rain, you do as you must,
For without you, we’ll be dry and towels trust.
So drop, drip, drop, and have some fun,
For when you’re gone and done, out comes the red hot sun.
But until then, I’ll wear a joyful grin –
And a very large bucket hat to keep you from getting in!
“This is a traditional children’s song.”
“It’s Take Me Home, Country Roads with Chinese words.”
“The rhythm is ancient and traditional.”
“It’s John Denver.”
“Don’t you like this old Chinese melody?”
“No, they sing it at Old Trafford. It’s from 1971.”
“No, it’s much older than that.”
“John Denver went to China?”
“Probably. It’s copied.”
“Possibly. Possibly not.”
“You don’t believe our culture. What about this next song?”
“Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart adapted to accommodate Twinkle Twinkle Little Star lyrics.”
“And the next song?”
“Jingle Bells, by James Pierpont. 1857. It was possibly a drinking song.”
Pour the next coffee
When the cup gapes open
And the mouth yearns for another filling.
Let us know how it feels
When the drops flow with warmth
And flow down the gullet
Each ounce a production of love
Stimulating rapid growth of irises
Sharpening senses and awakening the mind
How does it feel to feel the heat?
The steamed milk and familiar fragrances
The deep brown darkness of hope in a cup
The riot of swirls as milk blends to coffee
The sound of a sugar lump dropped deep into an ocean
The reflection of soul upon the surface’s light reflection
The handle proudly standing out
Grip me, it calls loudly to you
You reach out, and the joy begins.
I visited HuiDong, Guangdong (China) one January during the CoViD-19 pandemic, and it was quiet. On the August 2023 trip, it was the opposite of quiet. I no longer recommend the area. Too much litter, noise and far too many people. I just visited once at a much quieter time.
At 5.30am, on August 9th, a young kid was throwing sand at her pet duckling, and the duckling tried to escape. She put it in a carrier bag. One of her parents then stamped on it. To further this heinous crime against life, her parent tossed it into the sea. Plastic bag, dead duckling, and the shittest sea burial ever. That was a morning sunrise with Indigo spoilt by the grimness of an unwanted morning observation. I’d like to say that was all I witnessed during my time in Guangdong over the last decade. Similar crap happens on the U.K. I’m not naive enough to believe it doesn’t. The scale of bleakness and disposable life is grim: like painted turtles, flea-ridden kittens full of worms in small block cages and hamsters.
Beyond the disappointment, tree frogs, egrets, snails, and geckos made a change from legs being wrapped in sea plastic and watching bottles float out to sea. The sea could be seen as a glorious slumber of nature battling humanity’s demise. Our global oxygen provider and carbon dioxide sink act in a complex structure of processes so dependent on balance that any changes lead to stressed environmental twists. The tree frogs and egrets will know the difference. As will man. And woman. And LGBTQ+.
Henry VIII had his own purpose-made football boots, from Italian leather. That rough and ready game led to football and shirts being made and these days from recycled polyester materials. Not that the cost of recycled material ever shows in the cost of football shirts. Stood in a rock pool, looking at tiny crabs, anemones, and sea snails, I could feel the belting heat on my City shirt. The manufacturer Puma hadn’t accounted for Guangdong’s blistering humidity and heat, even in the shade of towering rocks. I pondered how the piles of plastic at the top of the beach could be used to produce future City kits. Or for team China. All it could take is a few lawmakers, employment of people to tidy and educate. Leave only footprints. Take only memories. Or not?
The wrong one may leave you in pieces. The right one will leave you in peace. The right one will find you in pieces but lead you to peace. Or not.
Possibly so: peace or pieces. It’s hard to tell. Much like a party of fools claiming to be a “strong stable government,” tiling floors and walls are not for the weaklings of the mind. Application of a three-dimensional wall covering with sharp bits can tear you apart. Much like a Conservative Party led by too many leaders over a 14-year period. Long may they fall off the walls like loosely grouted tiling! Hip hip hooray!
As one party flops out, the Labour Party moves in, with or without satellite television. Up steps a change that has been coming for years. Forget the British exit from the European Union, and countless money spent on distraction, the Tory government have left Labour up a creak with no paddle. Barely even a tea-stirrer. And then came riots. Far-right insights into their worry and panic. Flags unfurled. Bakeries and phone shops looted. Loose tiles of society.
And now to the prosecutors, the courts, and the overcrowded gaols: their work hindered by foolishness and hate. Their time set back. Meanwhile, social media, or X, or Twitter, sits quietly in the corner in total denial of its involvement. Telegram, and others wander and pander around. Their images on black screened tiles around the world. So, what now?
Some time ago, I tried to imagine a show similar to Father Ted, filmed within Asia. I genuinely came close to emailing script writers and asking for tips. Then the idea faded. The absurdity of Buddhists in China behaving awkwardly didn’t sit right. The Communist surroundings wouldn’t remotely support humour on television. Yesterday, the thought came back. I pondered more. What if it was set in Nepal? In the valleys and foothills of Everest?
Imagine the beloved British-Irish sitcom Father Ted, reimagined in the serene, mystical mountains of Nepal. Instead of a small Irish parish, the setting is a remote Buddhist monastery. Meet Beneath Everest (working title), a comedy series that captures the hilarity and absurdity of monastic life in the Himalayas.
Nestled high in the mountains of Nepal, the Namche Khenpo Monastery is a place of tranquillity, spiritual study, and unexpectedly, a hub of comedic chaos. The monastery, with its ancient stupas, prayer wheels, and stunning views, is home to a group of eccentric monks whose daily lives are anything but serene. The valleys around the Khenpo Monastery are mostly impassible.
Head Monk Tashi is a middle-aged monk who was exiled to the remote Khenpo Monastery after a series of misunderstandings and minor scandals at his previous, more prestigious monastery in Kathmandu. See also Father Ted. Clever, somewhat cynical, and often frustrated with his lot in life, Tashi tries to maintain a semblance of order and dignity, despite the antics of his fellow monks.
Monk Karma is a young, naive monk who came to the monastery with the purest of intentions but often gets confused about Buddhist teachings and the basic principles of monastic life. He is innocent, kind-hearted, and endlessly enthusiastic, Karma’s misunderstandings and childlike logic are a constant source of humour.
Monk Dorje is an elderly, cantankerous monk who spends most of his time meditating or napping in a secluded corner of the monastery. Despite his outward appearance of spiritual dedication, Dorje has a fondness for rice wine and often spouts incoherent mantras. Grumpy, unpredictable, and occasionally wise, Dorje’s outbursts and peculiar habits keep everyone on their toes.
Ani Pema is the monastery’s cook and caretaker, a devout nun who believes in the sanctity of hospitality and the importance of offering tea to everyone, at all times. Cheerful, persistent, and slightly overbearing, Pema’s relentless insistence on serving butter tea and her exaggerated sense of duty provide endless comic moments.
Throughout the series, the show explores the daily routines of the monks, from morning meditations and teachings to dealing with local villagers seeking advice or blessings. Each episode features Tashi’s efforts to maintain spiritual discipline amidst the chaos caused by Karma’s misunderstandings and Dorje’s eccentric behaviour. Karma’s literal interpretations of Buddhist teachings lead to humorous situations, such as trying to meditate under water to find enlightenment or misunderstanding the concept of detachment and giving away the monastery’s prized possessions.
Periodic visits from the head lama or dignitaries from other monasteries add to the comedy, as Tashi scrambles to present an image of a well-run and devout monastery while keeping Karma and Dorje out of trouble.
The monks’ interactions with the local community, including helping with festivals, resolving disputes, and participating in cultural ceremonies, provide a rich backdrop for exploring Nepalese traditions and customs with a comedic twist.
The show would retain the heart and humour of Father Ted while offering a fresh, culturally rich setting. The serene yet unpredictable world of the Khenpo Monastery serves as a perfect stage for exploring themes of faith, folly, and friendship. As the monks navigate their spiritual journey amidst a whirlwind of comedic misadventures, viewers are treated to a delightful blend of laughter and life lessons, all set against the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.
Of course, I wanted to contact Graham Linehan and others to see if the idea had traction, but Graham is too busy being nasty and divisive. So, this idea lands here, ready to be buried. That being said, I could contact Channel 4 for their view. All production and scripting should be worked with a local crew and thoroughly ensure respect for Nepal and their people. So, it’s probably a tough job to bash out. Arthur Mathews could do it, I’m sure. Does anyone have a contact at Hattrick?
Diane Charlemagne wasn’t Dido. She didn’t feature on Eminem’s Stan. She could have. Instead, her voice permeated a string of hits, club classics, and iconic songs. Sadly, discovering her name and back catalogue, I realised that I was too little, too late. And she’s a Manc. Why hadn’t I heard of her?
For many years, I had the song, “The key, the secret” bouncing around my head. Diane’s voice held that tune. Having sang alongside Moby and Elton John, having featured on Goldie’s Inner City Life amongst others, Diane Charlemagne deserves greater recognition – and she was Mancunian.
In the vibrant tapestry of Manchester’s music scene, where every note finds its rhythm and every song tells a story, one voice soared above the rest: Diane Charlemagne. With a name that echoes through the annals of music history like a perfectly pitched chorus, Diane was more than just a singer; she was a force of nature, a vocal virtuoso, and the beating heart of Manchester’s melodic soul. Oddly, few people know her name.
Born, February 2nd, 1964, in Manchester, Diane was destined for musical greatness from the heave-ho-get-go. Apparently, even as a child, she had a knick-knack for turning mundane moments into impromptu concerts, much to the bemusement of her family and neighbours. Her early years were a symphony of talent shows and local gigs, each performance adding a note to the masterpiece that would become her career.
Diane first strutted onto the big stage with the band 52nd Street, a group that effortlessly blended soul, funk, and jazz into a sound as smooth as silk and as infectious as a catchy jingle. Their single “Tell Me (How It Feels)” rocketed up the charts, and Diane’s voice, with its rich timbre and emotional depth, was the secret ingredient that left listeners hooked. Manchester’s very own diva with a voice that could melt butter and a stage presence that could ignite fireworks. Yet, only amongst a select audience.
Yet, Diane was no one-hit-wonder. She was seen as a musical chameleon, seamlessly transitioning from the sultry vibes of 52nd Street to the pulsating beats of dance music. Her collaboration with the band Urban Cookie Collective on the track “The Key, The Secret” became an anthem of the 90s rave scene, propelling her to international stardom. With her powerful vocals driving the song’s euphoric energy, Diane became the queen of the dance floor, commanding crowds with a single note. And that got her noticed.
Like any true artist, Diane was not content to rest on her laurels. She sought new challenges and found them in the world of drum and bass. Teaming up with Goldie, the genre’s godfather, Diane lent her voice to the iconic track “Inner City Life.” Her haunting, soulful delivery added a layer of poignancy to the song, transforming it into a timeless classic. Critics and fans alike hailed her as the undisputed siren of drum and bass, a title she wore with grace and humility.
“Inner city life; Inner city pressure; Inner city life; Inner city pressure taking over me (yeah, yeaaah); But I won’t let go” – Inner City Life, Goldie
Despite her impressive accolades and the glitz of the spotlight, Diane remained grounded. She was known for her generosity, her infectious laughter, and her unwavering dedication to her craft. Her collaborations with artists across genres (from jazz maestro Moby to pop sensation Beverley Knight) demonstrated her versatility and her boundless passion for music.
Tragically, Diane’s vibrant life was cut short in October 2015, when she passed away after a battle with cancer. However, her legacy endures, resonating through the speakers and headphones of music lovers around the world. Manchester lost a star, but the universe gained a voice that may echo through the ages. In the end, Diane Charlemagne was much more than a singer from Manchester. She was a musical luminary whose voice could paint emotions and conjure memories. Her journey from local talent shows to international stages is a testament to her extraordinary talent and indomitable spirit.
Is it possible to argue with some Conservatives? Or near-to-far right fascists? I can’t explain to them, without their true listening and understanding, about why they should care about people other than themselves. I can’t explain that people are people, and getting along is something a communal species should do.
I can’t explain that the “what-ho”, “pip-pip” and “down with this sort of thing” attitude of those who fought wars against oppressive regimes, invasive war machines, and Nazi overlords was for good purpose and to allow us as people to grow freely and fairly.
Stories from the bible, the Koran, and other holy books, alongside children’s tales, often educate and inform us about looking after one another. I don’t know how to tell someone that they should have learned how to be nice. Respect is given, not just earned. Britishness, national pride, and flag-waving has its place. There’s room for it. The problem is: are you proud to wave the Union Flag and St George’s cross when it’s claimed as a symbol of “us versus them”? I was brought up by parents, with input by grandparents, to accept people and respect all. It isn’t difficult. I can even respect Man Utd fans.
Yes, there are differences and clashes of belief. Hence, conflict. Conflicts by world powers playing Team America World Police have knock-on effects. The most visible being refugees. If you bomb for oil or to control an uncontrollable region, in an already divided place, creating a vacuum for absolute bastards to take over with unforgivable and inhumane laws, expect a few thousands of people to leg it.
Where do refugees go? The most appealing and tolerant places must appeal more. Off they pop. Through risks. Through high seas. In the back of trucks. Legal routes. Illegal routes. Whatever it takes. Along the way, lives are shed. Lost. Gone. Babies and children die. Ships sink. Boats fail. Lives are torn apart. And then the lucky ones arrive somewhere welcoming. The really lucky ones get support and they contribute.
Yet, a country that fought the Axis of Evil has its own right wing of hatred, xenophobic distrust, and insecurities. Fear spreads. The participants are sometimes unaware of their manipulation by power and money. And it hurts. It divides. It conquers people who want to get on with life – and live. Life is for living. Why can’t we understand that this way is not the way?
Peace and love. 🐝
A Muslim hand could hold a Jewish hand.
White van man, Audi driver, and all around us should be survivors.
Creation and creatives devour words and art, feeding us new days and ways.
A Palestinian should be born under safe skies.
No guns, no knives, no fear: just lives.
The Scottish, English, or Welsh must walk together.
Whatever you believe, be able to show it. Be able to grow it.
Let the music of Bob Marley show one love.
Switch of the division. Let videos and lies fly away like fireflies.
Their dreams and plagues will no longer taunt and haunt us.
Together is always better. A community of unity.
Failure to success; pain to redress; broken to fixed. Live forever.
Some day we’ll find a brighter way.
It starts now: I give you a seed of hope.
Book burning? Check.
Imprisonment due to voices and radical protesting? Check.
Torching the roofs of those in asylum? Check.
Seeking out and spelling out hatred of those with different sexuality? Check.
Refugee hosting state turning to refugee producing state? Work in progress, perhaps.
“An all but universally accepted definition of evil, a fixed point on our moral compass” – Professor Alec Ryrie (historian) on Nazism
These are difficult times. The landscape has gone to the dogs. Godwin’s Law is rife. And, why not? It feels like comparison of current troubles echo that of the 1930s Weimar Republic. Thankfully, by a minority, and not by a government (Israel, aside). But, can you speak your thoughts out loud? Yes, with the right audience. Heaven forbid you should write it down. Worse still, make a video and distribute it via social media. The Left are to blame, of course. Or the reigning government, even in their infancy. Modern-day Britain is a shitshow.
Everything is seemingly dumbing down. U.S. Presidents used to talk and have words that sounded both educated and reassuring, even as their fingers hovered over nuclear buttons. Nowadays, failed (thankfully) assassination attempts appear to inspire confidence and show defiance in a likely pathway to ruling. As Trump, Putin and other loony leaders play with our future, the world is truly heating up. Modern day Britain can’t even safeguard a Greggs bakery from looters. And the saddest part, the kids who lost their lives in Liverpool.
The victims: the kids should be remembered, and their stupendously-short, meaningful yet unfulfilled lives celebrated. It is criminal that they did not live longer. Evil swept them away. Their futures eradicated. More should be done to make their young friends and families safe. An open platform for debate could drive changes and give hope to all. That’d be a good memory rather than riots in Rotherham, London, and Manchester. Is this what life has become? Mourning under madness?
Let the authorities get on with resourcing the criminal actions of evil in hand and stop this cancerous social media disinformation that is treacherous to all who live on the green and pleasant lands of a supposed Great Britain. Or, burn it all down? Otherwise, history will repeat itself. We can’t go on this way.
Peace and love. 🐝
One player I have read much about, seen flickers of videos, and met many years ago at the City of Manchester Stadium, has always fascinated me. Peter Barnes also signed my book, This Simple Game: The Footballing Life of Ken Barnes. Written by Ken Barnes woth Jimmy Wagg, the Manchester: Empire Publications book remains a proud piece of my City memorabilia. The name Ken Barnes sounded fresh from Coronation Street.
Throughout his playing days, Ken Barnes was known for his athletic build and agility on the field. Newspaper reports said he had a confident and determined demeanour, reflecting his leadership qualities as a midfielder. My grandfather said how as Barnes aged gracefully, his posture remained strong, and his eyes retained a glint of the competitive spirit that defined his career.
Dedicated and hardworking, Barnes was renowned for his relentless work ethic both on and off the field. His commitment to training and improving his skills was unwavering throughout his career. As a midfielder and captain for Manchester City, Barnes exhibited natural leadership qualities. He was vocal on the pitch, directing play, and motivating teammates. Featuring for City, Wrexham, and Stafford Rangers, he’d give his all for over 390 league and cup games.
Like many players, he faced setbacks and injuries with resilience, always bouncing back stronger and determined to contribute to his team’s success. Despite his achievements, Barnes remained humble and grounded, often crediting his teammates and coaches for his success. Beyond his playing career, Barnes transitioned into coaching and management roles, driven by a desire to impart his knowledge and passion for the game to future generations. Scoring 42 league and cup goals, alongside management at Wrexham, Bangor City and Witton Albion cemented his football experience.
Born and raised in Birmingham, Barnes showed talent for football from a young age. He honed his skills playing for local clubs before catching the eye of professional scouts. Barnes’s career peaked during his time at Manchester City in the 1950s and early 1960s. His £750 move helped him play a pivotal role in the team’s success, with City winning an FA Cup final at the second attempt in 1956. He never earned caps for the England national team or had a chance to represent his country with pride and distinction in international competitions.
“The best uncapped wing-half ever to have played in English football” – Denis Law, Scottish international footballer
Barnes is remembered as a legend of Manchester City, not only for his achievements on the field but also for his influence on subsequent generations of players and coaches. After retiring from playing, Barnes transitioned into coaching roles. He served as a coach at various clubs, including Manchester City, where he continued to contribute to the development of young talents. Barnes remained active in the football community, participating in charitable initiatives and mentoring young players. Barnes would be involved in the development of a number of young players, including Paul Lake, David White, and Steve Redmond.
He has been honoured with inductions into the Manchester City Hall of Fame and remained a beloved figure amongst senior fans for his dedication and contributions to the club.
Kenneth Herbert Barnes (16 March 1929 – 13 July 2010)
Poor.
Struggle.
Underdeveloped.
Difficulty.
Issues.
We need to do summat.
Does that make sense?
Does that sound right?
Why did you stop?
Shall we try that again?
What else could we do?
What else could you do?
Does it look right?
Does it make any sense?
Do we really understand?
Really?!
I’m not so sure.
Maybe it isn’t right, right?
Something wasn’t quite right.
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