🎙️ Maureen Bowden

Read Maureen's story, Jigsaw, now!

Jigsaw

Are you a big fan of jigsaw puzzles?

I don’t have enough time in the day to do them now but I used to enjoy them very much. I found them a relaxing escape from the stress and anxieties of today’s troubled world and there’s something magical about the emergence of a beautiful picture.

Did you ever run away as a child?

No. I was born and raised in Liverpool and I frequently run back there.  I love Anglesey, where I now live but there’s no place on Earth like ‘The Pool.’

Do you have any children of your own?

Yes. My husband and I have a biological son and daughter and an adopted daughter; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandsons.  If all goes well there’ll be another great-grandchild in October. We’re all hoping for a girl this time.

If so, have they ever run away from home?

No. We’re stuck with them, but the families all have their own homes now, of course.

If you were to live in the craft centre in Laurel Tree, what do you think your “job” or contribution to the commune would be?

I’d write songs for my husband to sing for the visitors, accompanying himself on one of his many guitars.

How many times has this story been rejected by other markets?

None. You folk were the first to see it.

What’s a great short story you’ve read recently?

‘Tightening the Knot’ by Richard E. Schell. It’s featured in the January 2026 edition of ‘Shelter of Daylight’ available from ‘Hiraeth Books’ website. It touched a nerve with me.

What book are you reading right now?

‘Unruly’ by David Mitchell. It’s the history of Britain.  It’s hysterically funny and absolutely true.

Do you have anything else you’d like to share?

Watch out for ‘The Sound of Gematria’ by my friend Judith Field. It’s available on Amazon and it’s a super scary, sad and funny book. I’m not saying that just because she’s my friend.

Thanks so much to Maureen for chatting with us about puzzles, family, and stories on this wonderful Friday afternoon!

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