Belinda Ashton
Small Gifts for My Granddaughter
Reaching among the books, Rachel removes a slim collection of poems written by a grandfather, Richard Carraway, for his beloved granddaughter...
Profoundly moved by Richard’s gentle words and the quiet essence of his life - living on an estuary, close to the land - Rachel draws upon her courage and sets out to meet him. The time spent at his cottage leaves a deep imprint that inspires reflection on her life and a chance to redefine the vision for her way forward. And for Richard, a quietly charismatic yet reclusive man, agreeing to Rachel’s visit would unknowingly touch his life as well.
The narrative is set in Hampstead, London, where Rachel lives and works, and on the west coast of England, where Richard lives, and essentially tells the story of two people who discover a kindred connection that, in the way of life’s deeper enchantments, changes both their lives.
Written as an offering in reverence for nature and our enduring connections with one another, ‘Small Gifts for My Granddaughter’ touches on hope, friendship, and the chance to begin reimagining the unfolding narrative of one’s life.
(above) samples of a few pages - 280 pages in total
Small Gifts for My Granddaughter
I have released my story as a digital download so that it is accessible wherever you are in the world. It will arrive on your computer or mobile phone as a PDF, which will be easy to dip into whilst enjoying a cup of tea and some quiet time to yourself.
Price £5,00
My book will be available shortly...
‘It was the subtle intimation of a way of life, a mere few words that changed everything for me...’
Set in Hampstead, London & on the west coast of England
‘As I followed Richard along the old sheep track, watching him interact with Willow and then bend down to pick up some litter, I felt such tenderness for this shared experience. And just being here, walking with him and seeing how everything he does is considered and conscious of its far-reaching impact, which surely can only point to the deepest caring and commitment to living in harmony, is both humbling and eye-opening...’
I have always had nostalgic sensibilities, and ‘Small Gifts for My Granddaughter’ reflects the values of kindness, gentleness, and caring that mean so much to me. Belinda, 2026
FEEDBACK
A poignant and thoughtful exploration of how noticing small moments and looking more deeply at the world around us can profoundly impact our lives. Richard’s character in particular was very moving...
E.C.
Copyright © Belinda Ashton 2026