A local amateur author said the fascinating lives of the people he has met along the way motivated him to compile a collection of stories into one book.
A local amateur author said the fascinating lives of the people he has met along the way motivated him to compile a collection of stories into one book.
"I always thought there are people out there with interesting lives who should write a book," said Ernie Nutting, who lives northwest of Sundre.
"My interesting life was meeting interesting people."
Initially harbouring reservations about being able to "do these people justice", the writer of I'm Not Going To Lie Over One Partridge eventually decided to start typing up his recollections of past experiences and "let the chips fall where they may."
Considering himself fortunate to have met so many interesting people and to have been in so many interesting situations over the years, Nutting became convinced their stories should be conveyed and shared with the world.
Largely meant to provide an uplifting perspective on life, his book features a multitude of short stories that offer a glimpse at adventures ranging from white water rafting and hunting to bank robberies and tavern brawls.
The stories offer an element of authenticity, although he did not shy away from weaving in a few flights of fancy to encourage and challenge the reader to identify the tall tales.
The book is meant to be an easy read from start to finish, he said.
"In this day and age, people don't even like reading a long email."
Although largely meant to be an interesting and entertaining read, his book carries an underlying message that encourages people to never give up.
Having a low tolerance threshold for people who complain about everything or who are always in trouble or looking for it, he said "life throws curves at you enough without having to throw any curves yourself."
While he was not always sure whether to believe a story someone was sharing with him, the idea is to relish the ride. Some stories are not necessarily meant to be believed, but rather simply enjoyed, he said.
"That's what I want you to do with this book — just enjoy it."
Copies of I'm Not Going To Lie Over One Partridge are available at Sundre IGA while supplies last, or by emailing Nutting at [email protected]. The writer also plans to promote his book during the upcoming Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton.
