Douglas Arvidson

  • Onancock VA

The Secrets of the Ancient Pacific Navigators: A Dynamic, Interactive Presentation by Internation a Prize-Winning Author-Adventurer

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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

Writing
Navigation
Motivational

Accomplishments

Academic Honors

1976-08-17

Received B.A. degree with High Honors

Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society

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

1997-07-17

Winner of WICE/PARIS TRANSCONTINENTAL International Short-Story Competition

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Education

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

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

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

Availability

  • Author Appearance

Fees

$0 to $1500*Will consider certain engagements for no fee