As a bit of an indulgence, here are a few interests of mine,
(outside of writing and illustrating Roger Spoffin’s adventures, of course).
European history
The changing fates and fortunes of this part of the world holds an endless fascination.
The more I read, the more links come to light and yet, the more questions open up.
Star Wars
I still remember the wonder I felt as a 7 year-old when I first saw this film at the drive-in.
Truly an extraordinary vision magnificently executed – the music, the characters, the story, the galaxy reimagined – all of it.
Pool conquering
For over 20 years, I’ve been swimming in as many different pools as I can all around the world.
The goal? It’s a noble one.
To swim 1000 metres in 1000 pools.
Be inspired. Check it out: 1000pools.com
New York City
My family and I lived here for two tremendous years.
The energy, the wonderful people, the museums, the restaurants, the park, the cabs, the no-nonsense attitude, the whole place reeking of power and relevance. Loved the place.
Tree kangaroos
I love these little fellows. Australian animals are pretty much cute all round, but these tree-loving marsupials simply take the cake.
So much so, I wrote a children’s book about one once. WidodoTheTreeKangaroo.com
Opera
There’s a lot to love about going to the opera.
It’s the ‘highest’ art form in my opinion – the most demanding for singers, the richest of music, history’s best plots and intrigues, and always clever, often jaw-dropping, set design.
My favourite: Mozart’s ‘Idomeneo’.