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Anthony Pond was blessed with an insatiable curiosity. About the world, about life, about meaning. He follows that curiosity with courage and the confidence that he will prevail over difficulties.
Armed with degrees in English, Journalism and Law, he has roamed the world seeking answers. On the way, he has scuba-dived, mountain climbed and tromped through steamy jungles, enjoying the freedom that was instilled in him while growing up.
He grew up around horses, dogs, goats and other animals and developed a sense of responsibility that comes with caring for those animals. Professionally, he practiced criminal law for over twenty years in Orange County, California, all the while continuing his many travels throughout the world. Photography has always been a passion, first starting with film, then digital, and now shooting both. He has published his first book, Across The Border, a collection of short stories that draw on his early travels and experiences with life. A second collection, Tarnished Dreams, is now available. He now lives in Portland, Oregon.
Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite
Felucca by Anthony Pond is a reflective short story that follows the journey of Ryan Jordan, a young man seeking solace along the banks of the Nile River. Accompanied by his acquaintance Carl, Ryan sets off on a sailing trip to find healing from the emotional turmoil over the loss of his girlfriend, Stephanie. As they glide through the waters, Ryan grapples with both the stunning landscapes of Egypt and the heavy emotional baggage of his grief and guilt. Throughout their adventure, Ryan and Carl immerse themselves in the rich history of Egypt, exploring ancient ruins and savoring the local culture. They engage in friendly competitions with other feluccas, relishing the thrill that sailing brings. The ancient waters of the Nile provide Ryan with a sense of connection to the past and the passage of time. He even takes the daring step of swimming in the river, despite Carl's caution about the dangers of bilharzia. The story beautifully illustrates Ryan's struggle to come to terms with his past while searching for peace and meaning amid his personal battles.
I found Felucca by Anthony Pond captivating for its contemplative tone and vivid descriptions of the Nile, which serve as a powerful metaphor for healing and the flow of time. Ryan’s character is relatable, embodying the universal experience of feeling overwhelmed by grief and loss. We've all been in that place where the past weighs heavily on our hearts. While the plot is straightforward and leans on Ryan's introspective nature, Carl's presence provides a necessary counterbalance to Ryan's reflective journey. The pace mirrors Ryan’s emotional state—slow and wandering. Central themes of healing, grief, longing, connection, and self-reflection resonate throughout. The racing feluccas and Ryan’s bold swim in the Nile inject moments of excitement into the narrative. Ultimately, the book shines as a meditative exploration of loss and self-discovery. I like the thoughtful tone and rich imagery. These are sure to resonate with readers who appreciate introspective storytelling.
