Celia Berggreen studied English and Education to degree level, and then worked as a teacher for many years. On retirement, she began writing in earnest and completed a 3-year creative writing programme. A few years ago, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, but continued to write whenever she was well enough during the course of her treatment.
Sadly, Celia lost her battle with cancer last year without seeing her novel make it into print. Her Danish husband of almost 25 years, Kristian, has made it his mission to fulfil her lifelong dream of becoming a published author. He says, “I’m so proud of Celia’s achievement and feel very sad that her work didn’t have a chance to reach a wider audience during her lifetime. I hope to remedy that by giving everyone a chance to read this terrific novel.”
Celia said of her novel:
“I have always been fascinated by how much our genes and family history play a part in who we are as people. Since learning in depth about Danish culture and life I’ve also come to realise the importance of one’s country of birth. So much is innate from the beginning; so much never has to be explained. The traditions and values of another nation, however, can be quite difficult to understand and assimilate when first encountered in adulthood. I’ve explored this idea in my novel, and it is reflected in one of the main themes.”
Look out for Counting in Danish online and in your local bookstore in 2024!
