The Invisible War....
I don't usually do this, but I have decided to devote this blog entry to promoting a newly published novel (his first foray into the world of published authorness) written by my good friend Matthew McLean (or Matty as I know him). I'd like to tell you a bit about the Matt that I know, and I will post links at the end of this post for those who want to learn more about Matt, this book, or hopefully purchase their own copy.
I'd like to tell you when I first met Matt officially, but the truth is, I can't recall exactly....But I do know that we met as a result of being members of T.O.R.O.S.--Theatre OutReach On Stage, a summer school based theatre program out of North Bay Ontario (I've discussed some of my past experiences with this group in previous blog posts). The first thing I remember about Matt would probably be that he was always smiling, no matter what may have happened over the course of his day before rehearsal started. Matt has to me one of the most loving, kind individuals I have ever met. My time with TOROS was an emotional roller coaster to say the least...I loved it, but I was also consistently frustrated by feelings of being shoved into the background. As a result, my self-confidence took repeated beatings...Were they hiding me in the background because of my wheelchair, or was I just not good enough? At times like that, Matt was right there, building be up....He supported my dreams and believed I had a talent worth sharing...even when I didn't. Sometimes he didn't have to say much...his hugs were enough....I'm not talking about those flimsy kind of hugs....No...Matt would run directly at me, full speed ahead (even on a crowded street occasionally), wrap his arms around me and squeeze...Awesome really...
One of my greatest frustrations every summer came when it was time to block the curtain call, (also known as the final bows, for all you non-thespians out there). I was never permitted to step forward and bow at the front of the stage with everyone else....I had to stay in my "spot and wave. Then in 2005, I was FINALLY allowed to fully participate because I had a "special part" the warranted its own bow. I was ecstatic, sure, but Matt was even happier. If I recall correctly, it was him who started the round of applause that followed that announcement...I think I have a good idea how he felt for me that night.
To see this happen for Matt, is truly amazing. It's hasn't been easy for him, the most worthwhile achievements in life never are...I always knew Matt's incredible talent would take him places...He's a star....
Just hope he doesn't forget about me when he makes it to t he big time....hahaha!
If you're interested in learning more about Matt's new book, there are a few places you can go:
The Invisible War--Facebook Group
To order the book:
The Invisible War--Barnes & Noble
The Invisible War--Amazon.com
***Just a quick note: I recommend ordering through Barnes & Noble as the shipping is a bit cheaper (I believe my total was $23 and change) and it allows you to pay with Paypal.
Amazon gives Canadians a bit of a headache in terms of ordering, but it does have the advantage of presenting a more in depth synopsis***
I for one can't wait for my copy!!!!!!!!
I'm done bragging now, I promise....
I'd like to tell you when I first met Matt officially, but the truth is, I can't recall exactly....But I do know that we met as a result of being members of T.O.R.O.S.--Theatre OutReach On Stage, a summer school based theatre program out of North Bay Ontario (I've discussed some of my past experiences with this group in previous blog posts). The first thing I remember about Matt would probably be that he was always smiling, no matter what may have happened over the course of his day before rehearsal started. Matt has to me one of the most loving, kind individuals I have ever met. My time with TOROS was an emotional roller coaster to say the least...I loved it, but I was also consistently frustrated by feelings of being shoved into the background. As a result, my self-confidence took repeated beatings...Were they hiding me in the background because of my wheelchair, or was I just not good enough? At times like that, Matt was right there, building be up....He supported my dreams and believed I had a talent worth sharing...even when I didn't. Sometimes he didn't have to say much...his hugs were enough....I'm not talking about those flimsy kind of hugs....No...Matt would run directly at me, full speed ahead (even on a crowded street occasionally), wrap his arms around me and squeeze...Awesome really...
One of my greatest frustrations every summer came when it was time to block the curtain call, (also known as the final bows, for all you non-thespians out there). I was never permitted to step forward and bow at the front of the stage with everyone else....I had to stay in my "spot and wave. Then in 2005, I was FINALLY allowed to fully participate because I had a "special part" the warranted its own bow. I was ecstatic, sure, but Matt was even happier. If I recall correctly, it was him who started the round of applause that followed that announcement...I think I have a good idea how he felt for me that night.
To see this happen for Matt, is truly amazing. It's hasn't been easy for him, the most worthwhile achievements in life never are...I always knew Matt's incredible talent would take him places...He's a star....
Just hope he doesn't forget about me when he makes it to t he big time....hahaha!
If you're interested in learning more about Matt's new book, there are a few places you can go:
The Invisible War--Facebook Group
To order the book:
The Invisible War--Barnes & Noble
The Invisible War--Amazon.com
***Just a quick note: I recommend ordering through Barnes & Noble as the shipping is a bit cheaper (I believe my total was $23 and change) and it allows you to pay with Paypal.
Amazon gives Canadians a bit of a headache in terms of ordering, but it does have the advantage of presenting a more in depth synopsis***
I for one can't wait for my copy!!!!!!!!
I'm done bragging now, I promise....
posted by Ashleigh @ 5:54 AM
2 Comments:
At Wednesday, December 19, 2007 at 10:03:00 AM EST,
Jamie A. Grant said…
Where are these new blog posts that you keep saying you're going to write? Doncha have any good stories to tell, at least? ;)
At Saturday, December 29, 2007 at 10:04:00 PM EST,
Sarah said…
Hi girl. How are you doing?
Your friend's book looks really interested.
That is what my sis wants to do, write a book.
Hope you had a great Christmas and hope you have a great New Years.
Sarah
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