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Biography
Douglas Arvidson grew up on a small family farm in New England. After serving in the military and finishing graduate school, he spent nearly thirty years overseas, teaching, traveling, sailing, and writing, including eleven years living on a sailboat on the island of Guam. It was during this time that he studied the ancient methods of navigation used by Pacific islanders. He is the author of three traditionally published novels including BROTHERS OF THE FIRE STAR which concerns two boys who escape the island of Guam when the Japanese invade at the outset of WWII and must learn the secrets of the ancient Pacific navigators if they are to survive (release date: Oct. 4, 2012). His international prize-winning short fiction has been published in Paris, Prague, and in literary magazines in the United States. He and his wife Terry make their home on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
Areas of Expertise (3)
Writing
Navigation
Motivational
Accomplishments (5)
Academic Honors (professional)
1976-08-17
Received B.A. degree with High Honors
Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society (professional)
1976-06-24
Oldest and largest collegiate honor society dedicated to the recognition and promotion of academic excellence in all disciplines. Founded in 1897.
Literary Award (personal)
1997-07-17
Winner of WICE/PARIS TRANSCONTINENTAL International Short-Story Competition
Literary Award (personal)
1987-07-15
Winner, short story competition conducted by THE HELMSMAN magazine, Houston, Texas
Black Belt, Karate (personal)
1970-04-03
Awarded 1st Degree Black Belt in Republic of China
Education (1)
University of Massachusetts, Amherst: B.A., M.A., Communication Disorders 1976
Attended Emerson College in Boston from 1965-68 as a Broadcasting major.
Event Appearances (3)
Ancient Skill, Dying Art: The Secrets of the Ancient Pacific Navigators
Science and Philosophy Seminar Eastern Shore Community College
2012-01-12
I Love to Write
Writing Motivational Presentation for Students McCool Elementary/Middle School, Guam
The Secrets of the Ancient Pacific Navigators and the War of 1812: The Star Connection
Eastville Celebrates the War of 1812 Eastville, VA
2012-06-09
Sample Talks (1)
Ancient Skills, Dying Art: The Secrets of the Ancient Pacific Navigators
A dynamic, interactive presentation using video clips, slides, and audience participation, this lecture provides a basic understanding of the brilliant system of navigation developed over thousands of years by the peoples of the vast Pacific Ocean. This lecture will be of interest to sailors, travelers, outdoors enthusiasts, yacht clubs, and Scout troops and can be adapted to meet the needs of specific audiences.
Style
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- Author Appearance
