I'm August Isley (Auggie to a very special few, including my cara speisialta, Evelyn Rainey). This is my blog where I share my passion for the art of written communication.

I was born on October 5, 1980 in the US but migrated to Ireland after my parents died and was raised by my great-aunt  Rynagh and her Anim kara Euphemia during the 1980's and 90's. I was immersed in all things Gaelic. 

Ever since I was a wee leanbh, I loved reading books of all kinds - fiction, nonfiction, poetry - you name it. But not just any books. I have a special fondness for quirky authors who write from their hearts and souls, who are not afraid to be different and original, who have something to say that no one else has said before. Some of my favorite authors are:

- Flannery O'Connor, who wrote dark and humorous stories about the human condition in the American South
- Haruki Murakami, who blended fantasy and reality in his surreal novels and short stories
- Rupi Kaur, who expressed her emotions and experiences in simple but powerful poems
- Neil Gaiman, who created imaginative and whimsical worlds in his comics and novels
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who explored themes of identity, culture, and feminism in her novels and essays

I also love to write reviews of various things that I find interesting or useful, such as books, products, games, and charities. I like to share my honest opinions and recommendations with my readers, and I hope to inspire them to try new things or support good causes.

When I'm not reading or writing, I enjoy working from home as a freelance editor and proofreader. I prefer Kombucha to coffee or wine; acapella to orchestra, and SyFy to Hallmark. And my two daughters are the Grá mo Shaoil.

I like the flexibility and freedom of being my own boss, and I get to work on different kinds of projects and topics. Working from home also gives me more time to spend with my family and friends, and to pursue my other hobbies. Some of the things that I like to do in my spare time are:

- Following Khabane "Khaby" Lame

- Watching and listening to Jared Hally

- Practicing Haka (yes, in front of the mirror)
- Binge-watching movies, documentaries, and comedy shows on Roku
- Cooking, baking, and trying new recipes (vegetarian)
- Volunteering for local charities such as the food bank, the animal shelter, and the library

I hope you enjoy reading my blog and learning how to hone your writing craft. Feel free to leave comments, ask grammar/mechanics specific questions, or suggestions for future posts. I would love to hear from you!

dul i síocháin,

August