|
A nod and a smile (pocket version) |
| ISBN 978-1-421465-08-6 |
| size : 15 cm x 10.5 cm |
| 134 pages |
| Published: February 2010 |
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The original version of
"A nod and a smile" was first published in September 2003. This
original book measured approx. 16.5 cm (6.50") wide by 23.5 cm
(9.25") long, and 7 mm (0.25") thick. It consisted of 40 poems
spread over 96 pages.
"A nod and a smile (Pocket Version)" was first published on
1 February 2010. Its size
is approx. 10.5 cm (4.13") wide by 14.8 cm (5.83") long,
(also known as A6), and 9 mm (5/16") thick. It should easily
fit into a purse or even a back pocket.
The Pocket Version contains
the same 40 poem titles as the Original Version spread over 134
pages. Many of the poems have been updated, re-formatted,
re-sized to fit into the smaller book size. In addition, the order of poems
has been slightly changed to assist in presentation of this smaller
format.
What appears below is the introduction from the book. It starts
with the original book's introduction, following by a brief
introduction to the Pocket Version:
Why did I call it “A nod and a smile”?
Selecting a book title can sometimes be more difficult than writing
the book. As I began to share my work with family, friends, work
colleagues, and some almost strangers, a familiar sight became
apparent. As people were reading, I would see a nod, now and then,
and sometimes even a smile would appear on their faces, so in the
end, the title was easy. I hope that you also experience a nod and a
smile from time to time.
What is the basic idea behind the book?
The theme behind each piece of writing is to stimulate your thoughts
and ideas. Some of the pieces will be so close to your heart, that
you may even shed a tear, while others may mean little to
you. My aim is to touch the reader, and to give them hope for the
future.
Why did I write the book?
Originally, there was no intention of writing a book. These poems
were written for myself, and were shared with a few select friends
and family. It was following many suggestions from others that I
should put them into a book, that you find what is in front of you.
What is the format of the book?
In an effort to ensure that the poems are easily readable, it was
decided to choose a larger than normal text size. As a result, most
poems stretch over more than one page. Where possible, the poems
have been arranged so that when you open the book, you see the
complete poem in front of you (Ed. not possible in this version).
In everything that you do, there is always a compromise. With
several poems stretching over more that two pages, it was decided to
group them together in the latter part of the book (Ed. not possible
in this version of the book).
The order of poems is somewhat arbitrary, and in reality, you as the
reader, will determine which poems you will want to read, if not
all.
From time to time, I go back to re-read what has been written. I
have gained much encouragement from these words and when you are
feeling down, a word or two of encouragement goes a long way.
I hope you get as much joy out of this book, as I did writing the
poems.
Life is a journey full of many paths. It is your journey, and what
lies before you, are the thoughts of another. Take it as you may, I
wish you well wherever you go.
Gary Dodd
Al Ain
July 2003
There have also been some compromises, such as the smaller font
size, and most poems now extend over more pages than in the previous
larger book. In addition, the order of poems has been changed in
several places to assist in the presentation with the smaller
format.
Gary Dodd
January 2010
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