Even though I spent the first 31 years of my life in Great Britain, there aren't many things I miss about the Old Country. Here's a few:

1. Fish and chips.

Think those fish and chips at the English-theme restaurant are the real deal? Not on your nelly. I'd have to go back to Blighty for a real fish supper, with battered seafood and plump greasy chips smothered in vinegar and wrapped in paper.

2. Bovril.

This tasty meat spread can be imported from Canada, but customs regards any strange substance shipped over the border with great suspicion.

3. My mum.

Mum loves to sing and she enjoys a good knees-up (translation: party). A shindig just isn't a shindig without her.

4. Self-effacing British humor.

The kind of thing you don't miss till it's gone. US ads are so straight-laced and dull; the best British commercials are ironic, satirical and fun. Like this ad for Energy Wasting Day, which was held on April 1st 2008.





Love it. There's nothing funnier than a fat balding man in his underpants (unless I'm the guy in the underpants, and I've just locked myself out of the house on my way to pick up the morning paper).

Anyway, that's enough maudlin homesick blogging. If you're in Charleston and you love the Earth, there are several events coming up that you can read about on the City Paper website. Guaranteed no energy wasting.

Books-a-Million in West Ashley was so impressed with my signing there last month that they've asked me back to do another one - either that or they want to make a few bucks.

I'll be signing copies of my latest thriller, Undead on Arrival on April 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The store is at 832 Orleans Road, Charleston SC. Feel free to drop in, say hello and have a chat.

Undead on Arrival Book Launch Party

Come to The Black Cart bar for a Zombie Night! Dress code: cadaver casual.

I'll be officially launching my new novel Undead on Arrival at The Black Cart (above Joe Pasta). It's a free event that starts at 8 p.m., with a book signing, zombie art, DJ/music and a special zombie shot.

Be warned - there may be zombies around on the night. The only sure way to be safe is to come dressed as one yourself!

Where: The Black Cart, 54 John Street, Downtown Charleston, SC

When: Thursday, December 6, 8:00 p.m.