I’m delighted to share two pieces of news—both reminders that stories can travel, heal, and connect.

Paris Book Festival — Poetry Winner

PARIS — The festival’s top honour this year went to the intriguingly titled novel Being Human. Human Being. In the POETRY category, I’m humbled to share that Thunderstroke was named WINNER.

WINNER: Thunderstroke — Terence Ang

(Paris Book Festival: http://parisbookfestival.com/)

 NYC BIG BOOK AWARD® — Distinguished Favorite

In New York, Thunderstroke: A Poetry Memoir Inspired by a True Story was named a Distinguished Favorite in “Poetry: Journeys, Memory, and the Self.” Judged by industry professionals—publishers, editors, writers, designers, booksellers, librarians, and copywriters—the award recognises overall excellence.

“Vulnerability isn’t weakness — in Thunderstroke, it becomes the seed of strength.”

About Thunderstroke

Written in the aftermath of stroke and the daily challenge of aphasia, Thunderstroke lets language stand on its own—spare, honest, and alive. Drawn from A Cry in the Dark, these short, metaphor-rich poems trace a path from rupture to renewal. They meet readers where they are—survivors and caregivers, loved ones and fellow travellers living with a “before and after.” More than endurance, this is an offering of solace and strength.Thank you

Awards aren’t the destination—just signposts that say keep going. To every reader, caregiver, clinician, friend and fellow survivor: thank you for walking with me. If Thunderstroke has spoken to you, a share, a library request, or a short review helps its light find someone who needs it today. 💛
The will to never give up, no matter how tough the journey gets.