Reflections of islander with terminal cancer to form basis of book

Thursday 04 July 2024

The reflections of a local aid worker with terminal cancer have become the basis of a book that aims to offer lessons on how to live from someone facing death.

Simon Boas, the Executive Director of Jersey Overseas Aid, was diagnosed with throat cancer last year and has since written about his prognosis and the many reasons not to feel gloomy about it.

These reflections have now been woven into a book offering a unique perspective on life and death which is due to be published this autumn.

Pictured: Simon Boas received the Bailiff's Silver Seal from the Bailiff Sir Timothy Le Cocq in May. 

'A Beginner's Guide to Dying' has been acquired by Swift Press which described the book as "a paean to the joy of life".

Mr Boas said: "I shall already have hopped the twig by the time this book comes out, but it brings me so much joy to think that my words might benefit other people.

"And not just those in a similar situation – there really is no right or wrong way to approach the grave – but everyone who might sometimes feel that they have lost touch with what's really important in life, cluttered as it always is with so many daily worries and commitments."

Money generated through book sales will be given to palliative-care charities, particularly those focusing on children and developing countries.

Pictured: Simon Boas Director of the Jersey Overseas Aid Commission. (Dave Ferguson)

Mark Richards of Swift Press described the book as "truly wonderful".

"I read 'A Beginner's Guide to Dying' with tears running down my cheeks and a broad smile on my face," he said.

"It is clear from the global reaction to Simon's original pieces for the Jersey Evening Post how much his writing has already meant to people, and it is a true privilege to be publishing the book based on them.

"Like so many others, I feel lucky to have met Simon – and know that so many more will find his writing inspiring, and even life-changing."

Mr Boas was recently honoured with the Bailiff's Silver Seal for his contribution to the community— in particular, his ability to "offer support and comfort to those in need".

The book will be released on 24 October, but copies can be pre-ordered now on Amazon, Waterstones or direct from the publisher.

Pictured top: Simon Boas, director of the Jersey Overseas Aid Commission. (Dave Ferguson)