A story about a Merchant Navy captain

[Philip Algar]

Briain Probetts has generously suggested that I use this site to see if anyone can help me.

As a professional writer, I am looking for a publisher for a book that I have just f inished about my father's life and time at sea in the Merchant Navy. He was a POW in World War 2 and kept diaries of day to day life in the camp that the Germans never found. Parts of my book are based on these fascinating diaries. I have also included information about the economic and social and other conditions that formed the background to his long life from 1899 to 1992. He was an apprentice in 1914 and had become a master of an oil tanker in the Shell fleet when he was captured in the Atlantic in the Second World War. His diaries shed light on the story of an ordinary man in an extraordinary century. Initially, I wrote the book for the family but, following favourable comments from friends, I have edited the book for a wider audience.

If it were published, I would be happy to donate any profits to a charity.

If anyone has any ideas, I would be most appreciative.

Many thanks, Philip Algar

[Philip Algar]

Many thanks for the suggestion. The problem with this book is that it is, allegedly, of limited appeal as far as "commercial" publishers are concerned. However, I shall certainly try The Upstage Group and I'll hope for the best. Thanks again, Philip Algar

[George]

Hi Philip you could try Baron Books of Buckingham I here they publish books of limited interest Best of Luck
George

[Frank Ferri]

Sounds very interesting Phil.. Go for it.. best of luck
Frank

[DeepSea]

My first book "Ropner's Navy" (ISBN 978-0-9558593-5-9) was also deemed to be of limited appeal by the bigger publishing companies. In laymans terms it means there is no profit for them. My book was eventually published by

Cormorant Publishing Hartlepool
5, Teesdale Ave.
Hartlepool
TS26 9QD

Email: John Riddle at cormorantpublishing@yahoo.co.uk

John set up his own publishing company to help small authors get their work in print. He can advise on several options most suited to your needs and how many books you require.

Was your father Capt. S. Algar of the tanker Agnita held at Milag Nord?

[Philip Algar]

Thankyou very much. I shall contact the publisher you have suggested. I am very appreciative as it is difficult to find a publisher for a book that is not the life story of a 20 year old footballer, a cook, sorry chef or television gardener.

Yes, my father was Captain Stanley Algar and he was in Milag Nord. Did you know him or were you in the camp with him? I would be most interested to hear more from you.

Thanks again and best wishes, Philip Algar

[Philip Algar]

Many thanks. I'll follow up your suggestion. Thanks again and best wishes, Philip Algar

[Philip Algar]

Thanks for your encouraging note. I am nothing if not determined and feel that my father's story would have a wide appeal so I shall find a publisher in due course. Thanks again, Philip Algar

[DeepSea]

refer post #6

Hello Alan,

I was not born until 1963. I just so happen to have a book listing all those Merchant Seamen held captive at Milag Nord when the camp was liberated in April 1945 and looked up the surname. I know one man who would be interested in hearing from you. Gabe Thomas is the Authour of Milag: Captives of the Kriegsmarine (ISBN 0-9525498-08) unfortunately now out of print. I can send you his email contact in a private message if you wish to contact him. I have been corresponding with him for about 8 years on and off.

[Philip Algar]

Thanks for your encouragement. I shall find a publisher sooner or later I'm sure. Thanks again, Philip Algar hlisher gtour