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A Pocket Full of Days: Part 1
When Mike begins a relationship with Jo, how could he guess that the next 25 years would be extraordinary? A pair of Hansel and Gretel misfits, their on and off relationship is a classic story of 'can't live with 'em, can't live without 'em'.
As Mike copes with Jo's fight to overcome her own demons, she must deal with his undiagnosed high-functioning autism.
This is a brutally honest account of how both light and darkness can shape our lives, and attempts to answer the question, 'Am I my brother/sister's keeper?'
As Mike copes with Jo's fight to overcome her own demons, she must deal with his undiagnosed high-functioning autism.
This is a brutally honest account of how both light and darkness can shape our lives, and attempts to answer the question, 'Am I my brother/sister's keeper?'
- GenresMemoir
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2018
8 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Mike Cavanagh
8 books24 followersMike Cavanagh is now in his sixties and has no idea how that happened. He lives with his wife, Julie, adult son Dan, and two black cats in Bateman’s Bay, NSW. Two other adult children, left home eventually, complete the extended menagerie.
The house Mike and Julie live in is quirky and in need of regular maintenance, as are its owners. Mike also writes poetry, fiction, plays guitar and composes music, is doing research on rock-wallabies, and spends far too much time playing computer role playing games. He does none of these very well, necessarily, but he does them.
Mike thought he knew who he was until a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome in his sixties gave him pause to rethink who he thought he was, and how he got here. Having no real idea how to proceed from there, he wrote his memoir, 'One of Its Legs are Both the Same'. It was not the memoir he thought he was going to write, so he wrote another one, 'A Pocket Full of Days'.
The house Mike and Julie live in is quirky and in need of regular maintenance, as are its owners. Mike also writes poetry, fiction, plays guitar and composes music, is doing research on rock-wallabies, and spends far too much time playing computer role playing games. He does none of these very well, necessarily, but he does them.
Mike thought he knew who he was until a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome in his sixties gave him pause to rethink who he thought he was, and how he got here. Having no real idea how to proceed from there, he wrote his memoir, 'One of Its Legs are Both the Same'. It was not the memoir he thought he was going to write, so he wrote another one, 'A Pocket Full of Days'.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
August 1, 2018
Wonderful!
My goodness, what a story he has to tell! It had me in stitches one minute-and absolutely in bits the next. Just fabulous. It was a really good book. Amusing, then at times sad, and thought-provoking. It was so easy to get totally immersed in. Mike Cavanagh is a gifted storyteller who has a wonderful way with words.
Now, I haven't read 'One of its Legs are Both the Same'. As I was reading this book, I thought, will it matter? Can they be enjoyed either way around? Yes, of course! I thought it was great that the preface recaps some of the events in 'One of its Legs' for people who have not yet read it-or to refresh your memory.
There are quirky/funny chapter titles. You really have no idea what this is going to be about! And then they make perfect sense once you've read the relevant chapters. I really like his writing, it's fresh, fun, and different. It's like he's talking to you-"oh by the way" etc. The writing is very entertaining, brave and revealing. Good choices of words, well thought-out.
There's real energy to his writing. He could be a stand up comedian. I don’t mean this is all jokes-it’s just how he relates his stories in such a fun and interesting fashion, the timing is perfect. So natural-like he’s just reciting it spontaneously yet so polished too. Like a performance to me. There are some unusual stories and anecdotes, that little bit different.
This was not just quirky and amusing. It involves such deep emotions too. There are lighthearted fun stories at first so the harder period comes so unexpectedly. This turned into an amazing book with much more depth to it than first appeared. It was poignant and meaningful. He's not just a jokey chap. It was brutally honest and sometimes hard hitting. But it kept me gripped. Ups and downs of life, beautifully expressed on the page.
Later on in the book, I knew it absolutely didn't matter that I hadn't read 'Legs' first. In fact I think I might prefer to read them this way. Get to know Mike first-then get to know the reasons behind his personality. Being a musician, I loved the musical references-titles/lyrics/Italian musical terms, I really appreciated all these touches.
My goodness, what a story he has to tell! It had me in stitches one minute-and absolutely in bits the next. Just fabulous. It was a really good book. Amusing, then at times sad, and thought-provoking. It was so easy to get totally immersed in. Mike Cavanagh is a gifted storyteller who has a wonderful way with words.
Now, I haven't read 'One of its Legs are Both the Same'. As I was reading this book, I thought, will it matter? Can they be enjoyed either way around? Yes, of course! I thought it was great that the preface recaps some of the events in 'One of its Legs' for people who have not yet read it-or to refresh your memory.
There are quirky/funny chapter titles. You really have no idea what this is going to be about! And then they make perfect sense once you've read the relevant chapters. I really like his writing, it's fresh, fun, and different. It's like he's talking to you-"oh by the way" etc. The writing is very entertaining, brave and revealing. Good choices of words, well thought-out.
There's real energy to his writing. He could be a stand up comedian. I don’t mean this is all jokes-it’s just how he relates his stories in such a fun and interesting fashion, the timing is perfect. So natural-like he’s just reciting it spontaneously yet so polished too. Like a performance to me. There are some unusual stories and anecdotes, that little bit different.
This was not just quirky and amusing. It involves such deep emotions too. There are lighthearted fun stories at first so the harder period comes so unexpectedly. This turned into an amazing book with much more depth to it than first appeared. It was poignant and meaningful. He's not just a jokey chap. It was brutally honest and sometimes hard hitting. But it kept me gripped. Ups and downs of life, beautifully expressed on the page.
Later on in the book, I knew it absolutely didn't matter that I hadn't read 'Legs' first. In fact I think I might prefer to read them this way. Get to know Mike first-then get to know the reasons behind his personality. Being a musician, I loved the musical references-titles/lyrics/Italian musical terms, I really appreciated all these touches.
November 14, 2018
As an established fan of Mike Cavanagh’s writing, I was keen to read his second memoir. I wasn’t disappointed, far from it. A Pocket Full of Days: Part 1 is an absolute treat.
In this book, the author takes us on a journey through his younger years as a hippie finding his own way through life. For him, it is as much a voyage of personal discovery as it is one about dealing with his relationships.
The book is disarmingly honest, sometimes brutally so as Mike shares his experiences, especially those concerning his unconventional relationship. At times I was shocked, I also laughed, but throughout I was touched by the fundamental kindness he conveys.
The author’s writing is occasionally complex and challenging, which I find particularly alluring when the reader is invited to join his world of personal musings. His descriptions are exquisite and vignettes, which include toe-curling disasters, played with my emotions. I winced with embarrassment at some and chuckled my head off at others.
Mike Cavanagh’s journey is only part complete, and I’m already looking forward to learning what happens in Part 2. I loved this book.
In this book, the author takes us on a journey through his younger years as a hippie finding his own way through life. For him, it is as much a voyage of personal discovery as it is one about dealing with his relationships.
The book is disarmingly honest, sometimes brutally so as Mike shares his experiences, especially those concerning his unconventional relationship. At times I was shocked, I also laughed, but throughout I was touched by the fundamental kindness he conveys.
The author’s writing is occasionally complex and challenging, which I find particularly alluring when the reader is invited to join his world of personal musings. His descriptions are exquisite and vignettes, which include toe-curling disasters, played with my emotions. I winced with embarrassment at some and chuckled my head off at others.
Mike Cavanagh’s journey is only part complete, and I’m already looking forward to learning what happens in Part 2. I loved this book.
February 10, 2019
I've just finished reading this first part of what I hope will be a two or maybe even three part memoir. I was lucky enough to win it in a draw so I will admit I had no idea what to expect. Unlike other reviewers, I hadn't read the author's first book, so this one was a real upside downer for me. I found it quite riveting, but also shocking, funny, nostalgic, poignant and everything else that arouses emotions when I'm reading. It was also something of a rollercoaster ride.
I have to say it is not a happy story, but conversely, I have the feeling Mike Cavanagh is essentially a cheerful soul who is inclined to be happy rather than miserable. A contradiction in many ways. The blurb explains that he has written his memoirs since discovering he has Asperges Syndrome and that these books are his way of making sense of how he felt he was different as a child and young man in 60s and 70s Australia.
I know little about Asperges, but his behaviour seemed quite normal to me. Being of a similar age, I remember full well what the 70s were like and having lived the hippie life too, I didn't find anything unusual about his introspection or actions. It seems to me that's how we all were then, especially when influenced by 'recreational' substances. The fact that he stood by Jo, his girlfriend, for so long while she tragically self destructed suggests an empathy beyond the call of friendship or love so I couldn't quite see what his communication problems were other than might be expected in the situation. In fact, hats off to Mike for his support and love in the face of such a challenge. But perhaps I'm missing something simply because I don't know enough about Asperges.
Altogether, however, this was a riveting, evocative, and visual read. It could have been a film and maybe one day it will be. It deserves to be. Mike Cavanagh has a gift for description, especially of emotional conundrums, and his writing is often quite lyrical and very beautiful. That said, his exploration of his emotional and psychological responses to the situations in which he finds himself are surprisingly conversational and he draws the reader in as if he is chatting to them about his issues.
All in all, I found this a deeply moving book with some powerful imagery and I shall look forward to reading the next one.
I have to say it is not a happy story, but conversely, I have the feeling Mike Cavanagh is essentially a cheerful soul who is inclined to be happy rather than miserable. A contradiction in many ways. The blurb explains that he has written his memoirs since discovering he has Asperges Syndrome and that these books are his way of making sense of how he felt he was different as a child and young man in 60s and 70s Australia.
I know little about Asperges, but his behaviour seemed quite normal to me. Being of a similar age, I remember full well what the 70s were like and having lived the hippie life too, I didn't find anything unusual about his introspection or actions. It seems to me that's how we all were then, especially when influenced by 'recreational' substances. The fact that he stood by Jo, his girlfriend, for so long while she tragically self destructed suggests an empathy beyond the call of friendship or love so I couldn't quite see what his communication problems were other than might be expected in the situation. In fact, hats off to Mike for his support and love in the face of such a challenge. But perhaps I'm missing something simply because I don't know enough about Asperges.
Altogether, however, this was a riveting, evocative, and visual read. It could have been a film and maybe one day it will be. It deserves to be. Mike Cavanagh has a gift for description, especially of emotional conundrums, and his writing is often quite lyrical and very beautiful. That said, his exploration of his emotional and psychological responses to the situations in which he finds himself are surprisingly conversational and he draws the reader in as if he is chatting to them about his issues.
All in all, I found this a deeply moving book with some powerful imagery and I shall look forward to reading the next one.
September 5, 2018
Wow! What a story Mike Cavanagh has to tell. I have read his first memoir 'One of it's Legs Are Both the Same' and was looking forward to his second memoir. However it's very different although it's told in the same very honest, almost brutally candid manner. There were times I was thinking 'What'?? No?? when I read some of his revelations about his life.
This time Mike describes the period after he drops out of university and embarks on a very non conventional lifestyle. I very much enjoyed Mike's style of writing,which is quite conversational, and wonderfully descriptive. I'm certain Mike's life story could be turned into a TV drama series it has so many incredible incidents. The variety of jobs he has had, the frequent moves and of course his volatile marriage to Jo all make for a fascinating read.
This time Mike describes the period after he drops out of university and embarks on a very non conventional lifestyle. I very much enjoyed Mike's style of writing,which is quite conversational, and wonderfully descriptive. I'm certain Mike's life story could be turned into a TV drama series it has so many incredible incidents. The variety of jobs he has had, the frequent moves and of course his volatile marriage to Jo all make for a fascinating read.
December 3, 2018
Mike has a beautifully warm, and engaging writing style. In this his second memoir, he writes of his childhood and early adult adventures.
There are many fun moments throughout the book that made me giggle, juxtaposed with poignant and harrowing events as he meets and falls in love with Jo.
I could relate to his fondness for Patchouli and music, and his love of gardening and Nature. However, I am amazed he survived such perilous outback adventures and meetings with funnel web spiders.
There are many fun moments throughout the book that made me giggle, juxtaposed with poignant and harrowing events as he meets and falls in love with Jo.
I could relate to his fondness for Patchouli and music, and his love of gardening and Nature. However, I am amazed he survived such perilous outback adventures and meetings with funnel web spiders.
November 3, 2018
Kept Me Wondering, "What next, Mike?"
Mike's madcap adventures as a guitar-packing, pot-smoking, patchouli scented, barefoot hippie kept me laughing throughout this book. He's always making music whether it's in a band, with a group of friends, or off alone somewhere with his guitar. (Except for a short while, which I'll leave you to read for yourselves.)
There were many things I could relate to, in particular injuries from accidents brought on by clumsiness, lack of attention, alcohol and/or drug induced stupor, or a mixture of the aforementioned. The way he writes about them, taking them all in stride made me chuckle. His perspective on autism resonated with me as well as dealing with the drug addiction of someone you love.
Mike made many friends throughout his travels. As is normal, some have fallen by the wayside, but others remain. The value he places on these friendships shines through in his writing.
Some bits are rough, but he prepares you for them in his preface and I appreciate his honesty as a writer in not glossing over these episodes.
Oh, and his made-up words! I love them and admire such an extensive and creative vocabulary. I also like the way he chose to close the book. This book is for everyone who loves madcap adventure and honesty in writing. I look forward to reading Part Two.
Mike's madcap adventures as a guitar-packing, pot-smoking, patchouli scented, barefoot hippie kept me laughing throughout this book. He's always making music whether it's in a band, with a group of friends, or off alone somewhere with his guitar. (Except for a short while, which I'll leave you to read for yourselves.)
There were many things I could relate to, in particular injuries from accidents brought on by clumsiness, lack of attention, alcohol and/or drug induced stupor, or a mixture of the aforementioned. The way he writes about them, taking them all in stride made me chuckle. His perspective on autism resonated with me as well as dealing with the drug addiction of someone you love.
Mike made many friends throughout his travels. As is normal, some have fallen by the wayside, but others remain. The value he places on these friendships shines through in his writing.
Some bits are rough, but he prepares you for them in his preface and I appreciate his honesty as a writer in not glossing over these episodes.
Oh, and his made-up words! I love them and admire such an extensive and creative vocabulary. I also like the way he chose to close the book. This book is for everyone who loves madcap adventure and honesty in writing. I look forward to reading Part Two.
August 8, 2020
Wonderful
What a journey and this book followed suit in the same quirky, funny vein as his last. I was pleased to have read One of it's legs are both the same first even though there is a recap of the book I was able to follow Mike's progress more smoothly. Mike has an engaging writing style which is honest and straight to the point.
What a story one minute I was in pieces and the next laughing out loud, sadness, laughter and joy this book has it all. What a roller coaster ride of life he has especially in his former years. Mike is honest to the point of being quite brutal especially concerning his unconventional relationship with Jo, the love of his life.
There were mishaps along the way, a lot of these due to the dream like trances he went into but this was Mike's World. These occurred mainly when he encountered something of beauty and awe, especially when traipsing through the outback. Times like this would exacerbate his ability to get lost or disorientated.
This book has it all and I am waiting with bated breath for Part 2
What a journey and this book followed suit in the same quirky, funny vein as his last. I was pleased to have read One of it's legs are both the same first even though there is a recap of the book I was able to follow Mike's progress more smoothly. Mike has an engaging writing style which is honest and straight to the point.
What a story one minute I was in pieces and the next laughing out loud, sadness, laughter and joy this book has it all. What a roller coaster ride of life he has especially in his former years. Mike is honest to the point of being quite brutal especially concerning his unconventional relationship with Jo, the love of his life.
There were mishaps along the way, a lot of these due to the dream like trances he went into but this was Mike's World. These occurred mainly when he encountered something of beauty and awe, especially when traipsing through the outback. Times like this would exacerbate his ability to get lost or disorientated.
This book has it all and I am waiting with bated breath for Part 2
October 22, 2018
Mike writes of his time as a young adult, the era being the late 60's, early 70's. The book is written in short chapters and told in an extremely humorous and entertaining way. I was engaged from the start and chuckled and cringed as I read of the decisions Mike made, thinking 'no, don't do it,' but then he does. The book becomes more serious as he meets Jo who herself is struggling with life. The thread through the book from there is about this love story, humour still threaded through this sometimes tragic tale. It is raw, honest, humorous and a no holes barred account of turmoils navigating his life, written in a way to hold interest and entertain. Laughing hysterically one minute and shocked the next. An entertaining and humorous read.
August 24, 2018
This is a roller coaster ride through the early part of Mike's life. Funny, sad, tragic and heart warming all in one book. I thoroughly enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next edition.
January 17, 2019
I dove right into Mike's second Memoir "A Pocket Full of Days". Having read the authors first memoir I was curious to see where he was heading with this second one. I Love Mike's writing and the flow with which he writes. "A Pocket Full of Days" gives us a glimpse into what Mike and Jo's life was like in the early years. I felt very sad at times at the dysfunction of their relationship and how hard Mike tried to make it work. I felt how strongly he cared for Jo, even at the cost of his own emotional well being. That being said, there were also many good times. Mike has many hilarious adventures at this time of his life. The camping trip with two other buddies into the Outback reminded me of a few of my camping trips back in the 70's. I'm ready for part 2, keep writing Mike!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews