Aberdeen inspires revolutionary novel!

"Saving the World and Being Happy", R. Eric Swanepoels first novel (available from 18 August 2004 with an official release date of 4 October), was, in large part, inspired by Aberdeen. Eric, a veterinarian, who grew up in Africa but obtained two of his three degrees at Aberdeen University and lived and worked in the city for many years, says, Any Aberdonian reading my book will realise that the novels 'Inverdon is none other than The Granite City."

(PRWEB) August 21, 2004 -- Eric explains Aberdeens influence on his novel: Aberdeen is tremendously inspiring. Its a compact place full of contrasts. On the plus side there are some world-class educational institutions, great wealth, beautiful parks and buildings - a lovely city, especially when the sun shines! Theres also a vibrant music scene. In fact my novels hero, Nathaniel, comes to study here and falls in love with the ceilidhs and traditional music, much as I myself did. Aberdeen Art Gallery is central to the novel - 'Bright Eyes' and 'The Convalescent' by John Everett Millais change the course of Nathaniels life!"

Edinburgh-born Eric says that Aberdeens darker aspects were also important to his book: There is, unfortunately, a big gap here, as in many other places, between the haves and the have-nots and there is a fair amount of racism, particularly anti-English racism. Although my book is a romantic comedy, its also political and tackles the multinational corporations and their role in these problems head-on."

Eric states that, as far as he is aware, this is the first time a novel has attempted to offer a serious solution to global inequality, but ...although a lot of research went into it, the last thing the book is is a heavy read - Id like to think youll enjoy a few laughs along the way!" If Tony Cook, Chief Executive of ABCtales.com and Co-Founder of Red Pepper magazine, is to be believed, Eric Swanepoel's first novel is a great read. He moves from rite of passage for the individual to rite of passage for the planet in a bold dramatic sweep. This is a funny, thought-provoking and intelligent book. I recommend it to you."

If it is successful then its good to know that Aberdeen is a major part of it. Eric says: Living in Aberdeen certainly changed my life. If my novel is successful then indirectly Aberdeen will affect the lives of many other people too!"

"Saving the World and Being Happy", subtitled "The Computer Ager" (ISBN 141371756X), is available in trade paperback format (379 pages) from most online suppliers and the publishers (www.publishbritannica.com). It will soon be orderable in bookstores. Full details here: www.BeingHappy.info