I grew up in a small town in the northern part of South Africa. In high school I was fortunate to have had two wonderful teachers, my science teacher and my language teacher, who both had a big influence on my life. The science teacher instilled a curiosity in me about nature and the whole world around me and the language teacher inspired an interest in words and reading and writing in me. Through the years my writing and publishing resulted in many articles on a wide range of subjects in magazines and newspapers. As news editor of a science magazine for high school children I published hundreds of articles on new developments in science. I also have a great interest in human capability, the function of the brain, creativity and a positive outlook and attitude in life.   The two books that influenced me the most was 'The Power of Positive Thinking' by Norman Vincent Peale and 'How to gain an extra hour every day' by  Ray Josephs. They laid foundations for my life.   I worked for many years in the administration of a large university and obtained a PhD in Educational Management, combined with Computer Science. In November 2002 my wife and I immigrated to Canada to be closer to our children and their families. We are now living in Campbell River on Vancouver Island.   In November 2006 I published  my first book, 'The Positive Dictionary', This book is in the form of a dictionary containing only positive words, which I personally selected. Every word is explained concisely in the form of an action relating to the meaning of the word. Practicing the meaning of a positive word helps people to become more positive in life and to handle difficult situations. I have already sold a few thousand copies of this book at more than 100 book signings in bookstores. This book is also very useful for authors to find positive words to use in their writing.   I have also recently published an electronic book, titled 'A Guide to Positive Book Signings - Lessons learned at 100 book signings.' This book contains knowledge and advice on how to apply a positive attitude to increase your sales at book signings. This book is based on my own personal experience at 100 book signings.