YOU'VE READ THE PAGE: NOW READ THE BOOK!

Yes! PATHWAYS Page 8 writer, Francis Wood, has written a book.

It recalls the most influential time of his life. It portrays his childhood in Yorkshire, the Church Drama Group and his search for a vocation in the Church. Here's what some readers think about it (concise comments):

"I thought the first page was brilliant" (Carol of Leeds)

"A real page-turning book! I was always eager to read the next bit" (Liz of Manchester)

"On one page I both laughed and wept!" (District Nurse)

Special price at £10.50

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The following comprehensive review has been written by a young member of the congregation.

Riveting Reading from Francis

Not my usual choice, fantasy is more my genre and I will admit I didn't jump at the chance to review it either. However, Francis has obliged me to eat my words, so to speak. I rarely read the genre. "My story so far" of a 20yrs+ simply doesn't interest me. Of those I have read, I've found that as a rule, the older the author, the better the book (biography-wise at any rate). Francis is certainly no exception to this. In "A Man With No Ties" he takes us on what can only be described as a life-long journey. From a Yorkshire lad, with grubby knees (?), through the youth club, to Vicar and beyond, recalled in the 'safety' of a bar in Amsterdam. It took me a little while to get into. I found jumping from a present day scene to a young schoolboy a little confusing at first. But once there, I had trouble putting it down.

It is an intriguing, illuminating and intelligent read which places clergy (as a whole, not just Francis himself) in a very candid and human light. Almost like removing the veil. It seems to be a popular misconception that a young man, having been involved in the church all his life will, at an early age, become a minister. While reading this you realise that this view really is a misconception, at least in Francis' case. When members of the diocese are faced with life's little problems, many have lived outside the church for quite some time, have done other jobs and have taken time to 'see the light' so to speak.

He talks about life as a boy, a young man and (yes, I dare say it!) a rather older gentleman. In doing so he also discusses his loves in life, proving, in my view, that in his life certainly, it is the little things that are important. The correct way to create and eat a Yorkshire pudding is the one that sticks in my mind. It is a celebration of his accomplishments throughout life and an emphasis that life really is a journey, completion is worth waiting for. He highlights this throughout using choice stories, word play and upbeat humour. I feel he certainly has achieved his goal, to "analyse how loves of life can affect our search for vocation." He does this in a very unique manner, but being "The only vicar in the diocese who ever made a profit out of a curate" one should expect the unexpected. I will be reading this again and recommending it to everyone I meet. A fantastic book with much to offer all ages and walks of life.

Thank you Francis.