Dad has always been supportive in subtle ways, a wise and thoughful man. Never directive or heavy handed.

He was a avid reader of books, mainly adventure, crime and thrillers. I remember when I was at school and struggling in my English lessons. Comments like "watch your spelling and punctuation" were common observations on my work. To help me, Dad suggested I tried reading more and gave me a James Bond book I might like to read. This started my love of books and also my love affair with Sean Connery, (but that's another story). Dad would say "if you like that author then another you might like is..." and I would go off and read everthing by the new author. I'm sure this subtle prod got me through my O levels and helped massively with my career.

He was always visiting the library,  borrowing books and even at 89 he was saying "I've found a new author, I think you'll like them" and if I did, off I'd go again, reading everything they'd written.  Dad loved to do cryptic crosswords and I never could. But although my spelling is still not great, at least I can now get close enough so that 'spell check' can recognise the word and correct it.  

I will always think of him when I settle down and pick up my next book. 😙📚