DARK MATTER TRANSIT by Vernon J Yarker

About the Author

Veron was born in South Woodham Ferrers, in the county of Essex, UK, in 1936. He joined the Royal Air Force and trained as a telegraphist and spent the next 25 years with them in many countries. When Vernon left the RAF he worked in Holland before returning to England where he was engaged in another military occupation.

Vernon was the founder and Chairman of a national charity and has served on three national committees for organisations relevant to the elderly. Vernon is now retired and lives in Maldon, Essex, UK.

Qn 1: Can you tell us more about your book What is it about?

In the past five years, I’ve lost four grandparents, three uncles, two aunts, three cousins, five classmates, and my parents. Even a car died on me… so when life gives you lemons, you write jokes about dead lemons. “Dead Serious” is a look inside my mind and journal since losing my parents; it’s a dark-humored exploration of depression, suicide, grief, and religion. Designed to be opened and read at any page, this collection of journal entries, illustrated one-liners, and humorous musings create an unorthodox self-help book for anyone who has ever lost someone close to them and doesn’t know where to go from here.

Qn 2: Who do you think would be interested in this book, is it directed at any particular market?

While “Dead Serious” revolves around loss, anyone can enjoy it. It’s filled with dark-humored thoughts, illustrated jokes, and ten deeply personal stories. Much like my one-hour special, “Laugh After Death” the book shines a light on the dark times in hopes my audience feels less alone, and less crazy, during their own hardships. “Dead Serious” offers readers comedic comfort on all life’s ups, downs, and confusing in-betweens.

Qn 3: Out of all the books in the world, and all the authors, which are your favourite and why?

I am probably one of the biggest David Sedaris fans alive. I also love reading Samatha Irby as well. I think “Dead Serious” is in a similar category. Whenever I read works from David or Sam, I find myself laughing with them about tragic or embarrassing life events. Authors like David and Sam have a rare gift of making complete strangers feel like close friends. Whenever I read them, I feel like I’m catching up with my favorite friend.

Qn 4: What guidance would you offer to someone new, or trying to enhance their writing?

Be honest. I received some great advice from a friend of mine about stand-up comedy a few years ago that I have now applied to every creative project I work on and that is; All the things that you are scared to talk about – that is the stuff they want to hear. Once I started talking about my personal loss and journey of attempting to get better, that’s when I stopped killing on stage and started connecting.

Qn 5: Where can our readers find out more about you, do you have a website, or a way to be contacted?

Synopsis and author background are on the associated website www.darkmattertransit.com