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About the Book
The Last Words of Albion: Beneath Hadrian’s Wall’s ancient shadow, The Last Words of Albion weaves a captivating journey through Britain’s history with the elegance of haiku. More than poetry, it’s a portal to a past filled with valour and strife, illustrating our evolution. From lush forests to the industrial revolution’s grime, it merges historical gravitas with the ethereal dreams that define us, bridging from Moreland to Metropolis.
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This narrative isn’t just read; it’s an exploration of Britain’s rich history, urging readers to connect with the island’s soulful legacy. Its blend of striking watercolours and resonant verses offers a unique engagement with history, appealing to both youngsters and adults alike, and transforming heritage into an interactive saga.
At its core, the book voices a crucial ecological message, spotlighting our bond with the planet amid the spectre of climate change. Highlighting pivotal moments like the Great Fire and World War II, it challenges readers to ponder our collective future. The Last Words of Albion invites you to not only witness Britain’s splendour but also to contribute to the narrative of our shared home, urging a conscious stride towards safeguarding our environment for posterity.
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About the Author
Joshua Ferdinand, is the founder of an Academic Publishing Network who began his teaching journey with Key Stage 2 students. This experience inspired him to create The Last Words of Albion, a book for children aged 9-12 that explores themes of colonialism, climate change, and culture through haikus and activities.
Raised by a single mother on a low income, Joshua values creating connections and learning opportunities. His journey, marked by overcoming challenges, shapes the nuanced perspectives in his work. “The Last Words of Albion” is a must-have for fostering critical thinking and a love for poetry.
Did you know…
Joshua Ferdinand’s company, Atomic Academia, celebrates National Haiku Day by awarding a free copy of The Last Words of Albion to the writer of the year’s most popular haiku. This annual tradition, which resets each year, reflects the organisation’s commitment to fostering creativity and appreciation for the art of haiku.
Qn 1: Can you tell us more about your book,The Last Words of Albion, What is it about?
The Last Words of Albion is a poetic and visual exploration of British history, perfectly suited for readers aged 7–12 and their families. Through vivid haiku and stunning illustrations, the book guides readers on a journey through time – from our ancient forests, through to our share epochs including the Industrial Revolution to the modern challenges of climate change.
The narrative balances adventure and education, weaving themes of progress, resilience, and humanity’s evolving relationship with nature. Young readers are invited to consider ethical dilemmas, the impact of human actions, and the importance of environmental responsibility in a way that feels engaging and thought-provoking.
With its cyclical structure, starting and ending with the same poem, the story sparks meaningful conversations about continuity, change, and the choices we make. The Last Words of Albion is more than a book – it’s an experience that fosters curiosity, reflection, and a deeper connection to history and the world around us.
Qn 2: Who do you think would be interested in this book, The Last Words of Albion, is it directed at any particular market?
Parents, educators, teachers and librarians
Qn 3: Out of all the books in the world, and all the authors, which are your favourite and why?
I love Roald Dahl for his vivid imagination and exceptional talent for gripping literature. My number two would be Dr. Seuss and despite some of his catalogue being withdrawn from circulation, I believe his works had no ill-intent and literature should be debated not erased.
Qn 4: What guidance would you offer to someone new, or trying to enhance their writing?
Writing is tough, and often lonely. Remember nothing is certain, you could write a novel, flash narrative or commentary as long as the work achieves the intended outcome then it’s a success.
Qn 5: Where can our readers find out more about you, do you have a website, or a way to be contacted?
joshuaferdinand.co.uk
Qn 6: What sets your book out from others on the shelf?
“The Last Words of Albion” stands apart because it challenges traditional storytelling structures. It’s not just a lil book of poems, it’s an exploration of the human experience, interwoven with elements of history, philosophy, and the metaphysical. I’ve tried to craft a narrative that is rich with layers, one that offers something deeper on every read. The characters aren’t merely vessels and there’s no plot, we’re all just existing, it’s to represent real human struggles, emotions, and ideas. This book is a dialogue with the past, present, and future, a reflection on what it means to be alive in an increasingly complex world.
Qn 7: What did you enjoy most about writing your book?
The freedom of creating a world from nothing—that was the most thrilling part. I loved diving into the minds of my characters and seeing where they would take me. There’s something profoundly satisfying about watching a narrative evolve, about finding the perfect line, the precise moment where everything aligns. The process of writing became a form of self-exploration, too. It was a journey of discovery as much for me as it was for the characters I was creating.
Qn 8: Can you tell our readers what Haiku is and give an example?
A haiku is a traditional Japanese form of poetry, it’s there are varying conventions. We liked to say a 5-7-5. syllable structure when I was 10 years old but now we’ve evolved this to ensure that the haiku is about the juxtaposition of a situation usually involving nature. Go to my page and there’s a national competition for the best haiku of the year. You’ll find loads of examples every year.
Simply a haiku is about capturing the essence of a moment—short, but profound. Thus The Last Words of Albion.
Qn 9: What has been the most challenging aspect of writing your book?
Perseverance. There have been many challenges that could have stopped me, such as conventional form and perfectionism, so I embraced “shikata ga nai.”
Qn 10: What will you work on next?
You’ll always find me at Atomic Academia, a project to highlight the most interesting an innovative research around the world each season. Then it’s the next book similar style different civilisation, get in touch if you wish to collaborate.
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