No matter how ill I feel some one somehwere always surprises me and cheers me up. Look at this - it arrived this morning - out of the blue....this just happened..Just now · and it is always the way - a bit of bad news is followed by a comment that fills you with happiness. How many writers have had the joy I have had today? I definitely feel better, thanks to Eileen, whom I never met, but who has been so kind with the comment she made and which I post below.Eileen Seeley
10:52 PM (10 hours ago)

to me 
My Dear Pelham,Thank you ...... I have finished reading, all 6 Cranford Hall books I loved them, I had never read anything so fresh and different as those are, What a wonderfull writer you are, Please Take Care Of Yourselff
Lots Of Love
Eileenxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Number One fan today! 

This week I have put all six of the Cranford Hall stories into one book call it an omnibus or an anthology,  but I had to reduce everything to 11 font in order to fit it all in, I apologize to my visually challenged readers who are used to my usual 16 font publications. It is, however cheaper for those who have good eyesight. £14.45 on Amazon.co.uk and it is also available on Amazon.com and CreateSpace. 

I am acutely aware that I am dyslexic, getting older by the day, more disabled and increasingly housebound, but I remain a storyteller and as such it takes me out all over the world in my imagination. Writing and sharing the same is the very air I breathe and now I have a sizable following I have listened to you. So many of you have asked for my Cranford Hall Stories in paperback form, and so I have put them out there on Amazon. They are essentially the DCI Teasdale stories that are still available as ebooks. The publisher had insisted on the policeman as the selling point, because he did not believe that my readers would enjoy the stories of redoubtable and resourceful elders, I submitted to his decision, believing he must know best. But now I am an independent author and with the wisdom gained from The Alliance of Independent Authors [ALLi] I have realized that even though I'm not the world's most brilliant writer, I am entitled to write and publish as I choose. Now the six books are in paperback and on Amazon as Cranford Hall by Pelham McMahon and in their naive innocence the murder, mayhem and romance of our senior citizens is there for all to enjoy. Why did I write them? I lived in Sheltered Housing for 13 years, i knew each of the characters, I survived by using them to entertain myself and to fanatize how I'd bump them off! I bet you do the same when your old neighbours irritate you, why should the young have all the fun?

• I am re-posting a part of this article by Jane Davis because some of my fellow dyslexics who missed it first time around have asked to see it.  "My guest today also overcame dyslexia to become a teacher, a theatre historian, a playwright and a novelist, and I want to discuss with her how she did so.

Pelham McMahon has lived through many traumas that are reflected in her writing, most notably her alignment to military issues through her husband (whom I also knew), father and brothers. Her latest work is a novel, written with the aim of helping women understand why so many soldiers find family life difficult after service, in comparison with friendships formed in their the military. Titled, Platinum Ten, Every Mother’s Son, she used what she speaks of as ‘the Beryl Bainbridge method of storytelling’. “Three or four strands plaited together, the same strands start from the top and should come out at the end.”
When and how did you discover that you had dyslexia?
Very early, although in those days it was called ‘word blindness’. After the war, we returned to Essex and I was there for my birthday in January 1946. I missed my own party because I was put in detention for failing the spelling B. My word to spell was one where I couldn’t see the difference – Implicit or Inplicit? When you said it, the sound could go two ways and I couldn’t decide which was right. All I remember is the teacher shouting at me. , “Can’t you see it?” But I could neither write the word, nor say it. In the end she softened her voice:“Now, why are you crying?” I said, “It’s my birthday and I’m missing my party.” She looked at me and suddenly came over from her desk to mine and gave me a silver sixpence.  The next day Mother was summoned to the school and told I had a problem with words. My father said it didn’t matter as I’d probably only get married and have children.
Today, thanks to the British Dyslexic Association, I understand the neurological causes of dyslexia. Being forced to be right handed was not the sole cause of my trouble. There is also the possibility of an heredity link, in my case to my father, who – like Einstein – was a mathematical genius. But I felt ashamed of my spelling, my inability to differentiate between words, my complete lack of understanding of sentence structures, the sudden blankness when the order of words I was writing disappeared. (Even if they are on the page – they still vanish.)
How has dyslexia shaped your writing?
It stopped me from becoming a writer before I was ready. Years of rejection in every aspect of my writing career eventually led me to playwriting, which involved concentrating on dialogue. And, because I had lived a different life, I felt I had something to write about.
You describe your brain as being ‘cross-wired’.
 Is that how it feels? Yes – both physically and emotionally. I was made to feel as if I was Educationally Subnormal, which distressed me more than I can say. I was an 11+ failure and I had to re-take O Level English five times. There is a strong visual element to dyslexia. I can look at words and sentences one day and they are meaningless. Words, phrases or even whole sentences can go missing, yet I think I have written them. So, I have to keep going over the work. Sometime I set work aside until I can ‘see’ again. For example, on one day I wouldn’t be able to see any difference between ‘pet’ and ‘bed’. The next day I might be able write without any problem, and the spellings and sentence structures would be correct. The real nightmare is that every dyslexic is different.
I know that you have found certain computer software very helpful in your writing. Can you tell us about that?
 I use a dictation programme called Dragon Naturally Speaking. Then I use a separate editing and spellcheck package.
Pelham, you had a very specific goal when you turned to self-publishing, 
Yes, some of those who have seen my plays being performed or have read my work have always said it shouldn't be lost. So at the age of seventy-five, I have set myself the challenge of publishing all my forty plays and several new novels via CreateSpace. I don’t want to feel as if I’ve wasted my life fighting this monster. My plays and novels are my legacy and triumph over a lifetime’s adversity.
Then last year, I joined ALLi and taught myself about self-publishing. My soldier book is out now and two more books are slowing coming together. Those who like my work particularly enjoy the elements of history or morality I always include. 
For those thinking about dipping their toes, how easy did you find the process of self-publishing?
My first book took three weeks to publish because I didn’t understand the jargon, but I used the email customer support when stuck. It seems silly now, but at first I didn’t understand what was meant by something as simple as ‘Your Dashboard!’ Createspace patiently talked me through. All of my queries were answered quickly and I sent a thank you using the name of the person who had replied. Eventually, after thirty-four emails, I had quite a circle of kindness coming my way.
Now I am far more organised. I have everything I need ready (the back cover blurb, the description to go with the Amazon page and the cover photo) before I set up the title and ask for an ISBN number. 
Am I smiling? “If you can read and write, thank a teacher!” I thank mine. Because I can read and write and see my work housed in book covers I have designed myself, no matter how challenging it is to do so. Last week I self published Aftermath. 
Jane Davis is a member of ALLi [The Alliance Of Independent Authors] and the author of Funeral for an Owl, which won a National Prize. Since then she has published even more stunning work. I suppose I am a little biased when I say she is a brilliant storyteller. I recommend all her novels, they are available on Amazon. 

• I am posting a part of this article by Jane Davis because some of my fellow dyslexics who missed it first time around have asked to see it.  I believe Jane's questions helped me present our dilemma more clearly. Jane's words are in bold type. 
• If you haven't read Jane's novels I recommend them to you. Funeral for an Owl: Half Truths and White Lies: I stopped Time: These Fragile Things and An Unchoreographed Life.
• Part Copy of Jane Davis Author: Interview with Pelham McMahon Teacher, author, playwright

My guest today also overcame dyslexia to become a teacher, a theatre historian, a playwright and a novelist, and I want to discuss with her how she did so.
Pelham McMahon has lived through many traumas that are reflected in her writing, most notably her alignment to military issues through her husband (whom I also knew), father and brothers. Her latest work is a novel, written with the aim of helping women understand why so many soldiers find family life difficult after service, in comparison with friendships formed in their the military. Titled, Platinum Ten, Every Mother’s Son, she used what she speaks of as ‘the Beryl Bainbridge method of storytelling’. “Three or four strands plaited together, the same strands start from the top and should come out at the end.”

When and how did you discover that you had dyslexia?
Very early, although in those days it was called ‘word blindness’. After the war, we returned to Essex and I was there for my birthday in January 1946. I missed my own party because I was put in detention for failing the spelling B. My word to spell was one where I couldn’t see the difference – Implicit or Inplicit? When you said it, the sound could go two ways and I couldn’t decide which was right. All I remember is the teacher shouting at me. , “Can’t you see it?” But I could neither write the word, nor say it. In the end she softened her voice:“Now, why are you crying?” I said, “It’s my birthday and I’m missing my party.” She looked at me and suddenly came over from her desk to mine and gave me a silver sixpence.  The next day Mother was summoned to the school and told I had a problem with words. My father said it didn’t matter as I’d probably only get married and have children.
Today, thanks to the British Dyslexic Association, I understand the neurological causes of dyslexia. Being forced to be right handed was not the sole cause of my trouble. There is also the possibility of an heredity link, in my case to my father, who – like Einstein – was a mathematical genius. But I felt ashamed of my spelling, my inability to differentiate between words, my complete lack of understanding of sentence structures, the sudden blankness when the order of words I was writing disappeared. (Even if they are on the page – they still vanish.)

How has dyslexia shaped your writing?
It stopped me from becoming a writer before I was ready. Years of rejection in every aspect of my writing career eventually led me to playwriting, which involved concentrating on dialogue. And, because I had lived a different life, I felt I had something to write about.

You describe your brain as being ‘cross-wired’.
 Is that how it feels?Yes – both physically and emotionally. I was made to feel as if I was Educationally Subnormal, which distressed me more than I can say. I was an 11+ failure and I had to sit O Level English five times.

There is a strong visual element to dyslexia. I can look at words and sentences one day and they are meaningless. Words, phrases or even whole sentences can go missing, yet I think I have written them. So, I have to keep going over the work. Sometime I set work aside until I can ‘see’ again. For example, on one day I wouldn’t be able to see any difference between ‘pet’ and ‘bed’. The next day I might be able write without any problem, and the spellings and sentence structures would be correct. The real nightmare is that every dyslexic is different.

I know that you have found certain computer software very helpful in your writing. Can you tell us about that?
My late husband gave me my first BBC computer thirty years ago. It was a model much used in schools, a considerable step up from a typewriter! I am not brilliant with a computer – I still treat it as a word processor. Although, with practice, I have acquired some skills, my eyes aren’t what they were, and dyslexia hampers my progress. Microsoft spellcheck is no good to me. I use a dictation programme called Dragon Naturally Speaking. Then I use a separate editing and spellcheck package.

Pelham, you had a very specific goal when you turned to self-publishing, 
Yes, some of those who have seen my plays being performed or have read my work have always said it shouldn't be lost. So at the age of seventy-five, I have set myself the challenge of publishing all my forty plays and several new novels via CreateSpace. I don’t want to feel as if I’ve wasted my life fighting this monster. My plays and novels are my legacy and triumph over a lifetime’s adversity.
Then last year, I joined ALLi and taught myself about self-publishing. My soldier book is out now and two more books are slowing coming together. Those who like my work particularly enjoy the elements of history or morality I always include. 

For those thinking about dipping their toes, how easy did you find the process of self-publishing?
My first book took three weeks to publish because I didn’t understand the jargon, but I used the email customer support when stuck. It seems silly now, but at first I didn’t understand what was meant by something as simple as ‘Your Dashboard!’ Createspace patiently talked me through. All of my queries were answered quickly and I sent a thank you using the name of the person who had replied. Eventually, after thirty-four emails, I had quite a circle of kindness coming my way.
Now I am far more organised. I have everything I need ready (the back cover blurb, the description to go with the Amazon page and the cover photo) before I set up the title and ask for an ISBN number. 
Am I smiling? “If you can read and write, thank a teacher!” I thank mine. Because I can read and write and see my work housed in book covers I have designed myself, no matter how challenging it is to do so.

Jane Davis is a member of ALLi [The Alliance Of Independent Authors] and the author of Funeral for an Owl, which won a National Prize. Since then she has published even more stunning work. I suppose I am a little biased when I say she is a brilliant storyteller. I recommend all her novels, they are available on Amazon. 

From Comedy to serious there are now 7 of my earlier plays available to Theatre Companies. Some are more suitable to small stages and for solo performers, others need box sets and larger casts. If none appeal, then hopefully the next batch, due out later this year might be more accommodating. 
        amazon.co.uk for UK readers for next day delivery.
        amazon.com for others. Also available via CreateSpace.
permissions for performance and settling of Royalty rates please apply to apelhammcmahon42@gmail.com

TWO ACT PLAYS.
1] The Pretzi Stop.   One set, minimum 3 male, three female. Murder in mind: who will live and who
                                    will die, when it is obvious that plots are afoot!
2] Scandalous Women. One set minimum 5 female, 2 male. Backstage crisis in the wardrobe room of
                                    the local Rep. Funny and sad, but needs excellent females in the leads.
3] Our Bessie. One female, two male. Biography of Bessie Braddock the famous Liverpool MP. Bessie                                    died in 1970 and is still fondly remembered.
4] Bottling Up. Large cast needed. 'Within comedy lies much tragedy' This drama needs sensitive 
                                  handling and a good director to maintain the pace and prevent a 
                                  maudlin atmosphere.
MONOLOGUES.
1] Life is an iceberg. Full length for a woman about to retire, re-assessing her life. Funny/sad.
2] Buttered Toast. Full length - a mother re-establishes her links to her family. Funny/sad.
3] Yes Sir, No Sir. Full length - a woman examines the past cruelty of both parents and church. This
                               drama comes with a warning that Irish historical attitudes might offend. Please                                      don't read this if you are homophobic.

Thank you for reading this. If you are interested in performing any of my works, please understand that I am sympathetic towards reduced fees for Little Theatres and bone fide amateur drama groups. Professional groups must abide by National and international Royalty Payments.
Pelham McMahon 

This Hitler’s child asks, “Do I sue the Labour Party or the Conservative Party?”
Today who is responsible for the mistakes made in 1944/45 by the Coalition Ministers of Education?  i.e. R. A. Butler, Conservative or James C. Ede, Labour.
After 70 years of abuse heaped upon me because of the dyslexia caused by the abusive treatment of me, on my first day at school, for I was left-handed, I have only now found a way to write with a freedom from fear and publish works that I have kept hidden for years. Mercifully and thanks to the use of Dragon Naturally Speaking, I am able to write this letter without too much fear. Thank you to CreateSpace and Amazon for allowing me to publish free of charge, even though I believe there is always at least one mistake in every volume, but at 75 I have the joy of seeing my work in all its imperfections, printed and bound in colourful binders. But then Einstein was also dyslexic and he said that, “The person who never made a mistake, never tried anything new!” 
Thank you to those who are now reading my work. Thank you for the cheques being paid into my bank account.  Today I can say I forgive the teacher who slapped my 5 year old handswith a wooden pencil case and terrified me with the question, “What are you, Hitler’s child?” Then I was a child escaping as an evacuee from the bombing of my home town, today, I am a writer, no matter how naïve my writings, they are mine. If your child is dyslexic, the British Dyslexic Association [BDA] can help your child achieve the self-respect that comes from putting words down on paper. 

Thanks to all my readers, to the actors who are supporting my revitalized career as a playwright. Thank you to Patrick Russell Books, for all your support given to Indie writers, such as myself. Thanks to the Alliance of Independent Authors [ALLi] I've learned a great deal from you. Thanks to the Liverpool Theatres, ever wonderful support for writers. Thanks to the support given over many years by June Lornie. Thanks to all my Twitter and Facebook friends, you are all very kind. pelhammcmahon.co.uk

Dear Everyone, hidden in your ranks are many military. I am working on editing a supportive book for all who have ever served and their loved ones. Your thoughts or comments, prayers, grief, death, injury, survival, welcome, doubts, fears, anger, violence witnessed or violence experienced, nursing, surgery, recovery, PTSD, the list is endless... just two hundred words that you wish to see in print, followed by any short prayer that you wish to say to all who will read your account. It will be sold with any profit going to the Invictus Games, because I believe that sport was the medicine that helped Joseph, [whom I married in 1971] to overcome and accept his severe spinal injury. For 33 years he lived a vibrant life, even though he could not so much as stand up. 
Send your work as an email and if possible an e.mailed photo, one we can cut and size to the book, to my business address apelhammcmahon42@gmail.com thank you and if you can share this request with anyone else, I would be most grateful. With Thanks Pelham McMahon also on pelhammcmahon.co.uk

I'M ALSO ON FACEBOOK - PLEASE LIKE MY PAGE08/14/2014
www.facebook.com/pelhammcmahonauthor
MY first real review of Platinum Ten
Thank you to Clare Walker.
Paperback Verified Purchase
Not the sort of book I would normally read, but it draws you in and you want to know what happens to the young people at the centre of the 'story'. It gives a human face to the conflict that we have become inured to through constant coverage in the media. Also gives a voice to the ordinary soldier who has to cope with the horrors of war whilst we at home expect him to be like the knights of old.
Pelham has managed to write a story that will stick in the mind and make you look with fresh eyes at our fighting forces and those who toil so hard to care for them when injured.Clare Walker
Buy on http://tinyurl.com/k7ypgpc