advertisement
How I Set Fire to My Eyebrows
By Sanya BurgessJune 20, 2012
The first thing you want to know about when speaking to Martin Ison is, exactly how did he manage to set fire to his eyebrows?
"It’s something I really don’t like to talk about too much," he says, leaving us in suspense (and meaning we're going to need to read his book). "Although what I can say is that smoking may be bad for your health but it can be worse for your pride."
The unusual scenario is the title of Martin's debut novel which revolves around Matthew Thompson, who cruises around Reading in a pure white Ford Escort XR3i Convertible with red aviator shades.
The reader joins Matthew on his journey as he launches his own business with hilarious consequences, awkwardly tries to bag himself a girlfriend and has a surprising outcome when he meets two Norwegian beauties whilst on holiday.
"It was meant as a comedy as I really wanted to create something to cheer everyone up during this recessionary gloom - which frankly, doesn't feel much different to the boom-and-bust of the 80s to 90s period." says Martin, who finished the book in two months.
However, despite its humour the book also tackles some heavier issues including mental illness and its impact on those affected by it.
"I wanted the book to be thought-provoking, as well as entertaining," says Martin.
The quasi-autobiographical collection of nine short stories allowed Martin artistic license to create a mash up of his own experiences, those of his friends and family, and some imaginary scenarios.
Martin aimed to create a relatable story, especially for Reading readers who will be able to recognise some of the locations encountered in the stories.
With his antics of the 80s well documented in the novel Martin is already thinking ahead to his second novel which will be based on travel in the 90s.
- How I Set Fire To My Eyebrows... is available in paperback and to download from www.amazon.co.uk. ISBN: 1475117647.
Browse Sections
