From Coal Dust to Gold Dust: The Journey of a Miner's Son is the true story of a coalminer’s son who enters the world of International corporate troubleshooting. An odyssey of travel, culture, witnessing firsthand the multi-faceted aspects of human behaviour; where one’s spirit and values are tested to the full and  life’s simple lessons are relearned.

Excerpt

My Spanish was now becoming quite fluent and I felt comfortable in most situations whether it be work or in a social setting, as colleagues regularly invited me to their home or to parties. Summer was coming to an end although the temperatures in the daytime were still warm; a chilling wind would increasingly remind one that autumn was near. Ricardo Sanchez De Pablo, a great traditionalist, invited me to his home to share with his wife and his neighbours the official passing of summer. The event was to be held on a large grassed area with a rotunda where the fine art of Sevillanas dancing would be practised. This dancing was so erotic although partners barely touching one another. The men were like proud peacocks displaying their style as he danced around this partner with a passion I have rarely seen in my lifetime. Ever since that moment the mere sound of Latin music whenever or wherever it might be evokes something off in my soul.


Praise for From Coal Dust to Gold Dust

"I just finished reading 'From Coal Dust to Gold Dust'. I must say I enjoyed this new book immensely and found it very easy to read. I looked forward to every new chapter in the author's life. Many of us have a picture of a tough life in English coal mines after seeing films including old black and white footage. So it is no surprise that the author starts in a coal town with humble beginnings rising to become a successful business executive - trouble shooting his way around the world, often leaving his family at 'home' wherever that was. Stories reveal a young man’s career, his aspirations and personal growth over a forty year period. What surprised me was not the highs and lows or difficult times over this period but the honesty with the author describes each event. The journey is of a modern family experiencing people and countries all over the world before ending up in Adelaide, South Australia.
A great story that will interest many."

Peter Lawrence, Western Australia


"Amazing, inspiring and very funny. Ken has the knack of making the reader feel as though he or she is there with him. He seems to have a boundless energy to test new waters and learn other cultures. Once you start reading this book you won't want to put it down."

Sheryl Caston, South Australia