1. I can solve a Rubik’s cube without pulling off the stickers. I’d generally solve one in under two minutes (which isn’t exactly a world record), but sadly it’s a skill I’ve slowly forgotten due to lack of practice.
2. I’m pretty good at DYI. I can rip out kitchens and bathrooms and replace them, I can tile, wire stuff up, build basic coffee tables or TV cabinets, hang TVs on walls and make the cables disappear, I can paint, and landscape … but I’m hopeless with cars. I know where the petrol goes, and which direction is forward, but that’s about it.
3. When I was 19, I accidently did a 360 degree spin in a car at a funeral, spraying mud all over family members and friends as they were walking away from the grave.
4. I’m a huge Star Trek geek. I have Star Trek posters throughout my house, and Funko Star Trek figures, and other memorabilia. I usually put a Star Trek reference into whatever I’m writing. My ideal job would be to write for one of those shows.
5. I travel only with carry-on, even if I’m heading away for four or five weeks. I hate lugging suitcases around, so keep things pretty tight.
Paul Cleave is author of His Favourite Graves, published on 9th November 2023 by Orenda Books.
