Birdy SladeMy story began not so long ago... in 1991... when I was born in a place called Sheepy Magna, in England. The small village is right in the middle of the UK ... nothing much happens there.

My father is American and Mother is Englis. They met on a summer camp in the USA where both were swimming counsellors. They fell in love and travelled the world before settling in London to take up jobs in a biological engineering company. They're retired now.

My folks moved out to Sheepy Magna just before I was born. I'm one of five kids, the youngest and, therefore, the wildest.

I went to Dixie Grammar School in a place called Market Bosworth. My dad said he chose the school for its name since he came from the deep south himself.

I went to university to study english at Bristol University. I dropped out and joined the army. One day I'll write a full account of my time in the British Forces but I'm not ready yet.

Before dropping out, I spent the summer in the USA teaching swimming on a really old summer camp for rich American kids. I loved it. My latest book, "Dead Kids Don't Leave Camp" is based on my experiences there.

My career now is varied. I live in Maine, USA, with my dog 'Crapper' and long time other. I'm lucky as my man has a great job and does well for himself.

I have a busy life writing articles and acting as a newspaper/internet agony aunt. I studied psychology after leaving the army and specialised in teenage issues.

Mr Brad Slade, my partner, suggested I write my newest book based on my and my parent's experiences at Summer Camp.

Besides that, I'm just a girl who loves the wild outdoors (there's plenty of it in Maine) but can put my best dress on and enjoy the city. We have an apartment in New York, so, we have the best of both worlds.

My prime driver in life is to help others, especially young adults who are finding their way in the world. I had a traumatic upbringing for many different reasons. I know if I could help just one boy or girl overcome their fears and be as happy as I am now, I would have done a good job.
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