Angelena Boden has a Masters Degree in Sociology, and has enjoyed an international career in training, coaching and mentoring until hanging up her consultancy boots in 2014. She was first published in 1991 by Management Pocketbooks Ltd, and on retirement, wrote her first novel, The Cruelty of Lambs in 2016. She went on to write three more books, and a memoir about her life during the Iranian Revolution. Drawing on her experience, she has contributed a number of blog articles to Autumn Voices on both memoir writing and the challenges of publishing, especially for older authors.
Angelena is a staunch believer in keeping the mind and body healthy through walking (she covers four miles a day) and creative pursuits. She is a self-taught landscape painter, choral singer and rusty pianist. Having a go is the important thing, and not worrying about the results, is her motto.
She is married and has two grown up daughters, one grandson, and is hoping to add a little rescue dog to her household.
Deciding it was time for a makeover and rethink of her writing priorities, she is now designing a new website and blog.
Tell us 4 important facts about yourself:
- I’m a survivor.
- I speak out against injustice whenever it is safe to do so.
- I’ve been a follower of international affairs since the age of 16 and have travelled the globe (I speak 4 languages).
- I admit when I am wrong. Sorry isn’t the hardest word.
What is your favourite age that you’ve been so far in life, and why?
Each decade has brought its triumphs and troubles, so I don’t really have a favourite one. If I had to choose, it would be my 30s when my children were young and I was building my business. For me, to be busy is to be happy.
Who is your favourite fictional character or famous person over 60?
Paul Torday. He was 60 when he published Salmon Fishing in the Yemen which was later made into a film. He died aged 67.
You are alone in your house (no pets). You have three minutes to get out before the house collapses and burns to the ground. What one possession would you grab and take with you?
My mother’s silver cross that she gave me for my confirmation in 1968.
What’s your favourite creative pastime?
Landscape painting with acrylics. It’s not as taxing as writing!
Tell us something about yourself that’s surprising or unexpected.
I was held overnight in an Iranian jail in 1979 for violating the Islamic dress code.
Angelena is part of the Autumn Voices Steering Group.