Karl Avery, The Ribbon Tree author 

Liz Nicholls

Karl Avery’s book The Ribbon Tree was inspired by a tree he used to pass while helping patients as an ambulance crew member. He tells us about his path to becoming an author 

In the heart of a lost valley stands a gnarled, ancient tree that has never bloomed. Legend has it that tying a ribbon to its branches grants your deepest desires. From the darkest corners of despair to the brightest dreams of hope, generations of souls are drawn to The Ribbon Tree, seeking solace and redemption… 

This is the evocative setting for The Ribbon Tree, written by Karl Avery, inspired by his time, during Covid lockdown, working for the South Central Ambulance Service helping patients.  

Since being published this year by Austin Macauley, The Ribbon Tree has won a fiction short story award and is in the mix for book of the year in the The Golden Wizard awards.  

“I’m delighted that this piece of work is now available to anyone, anywhere, to read and share,” says Karl, who lives in Marlow. 

“I am really looking forward to people’s reactions, good or bad. It’s been an amazing journey – even more so if they are good reactions! My hope is that those who read it can enjoy an easy read full of hope. I know that sounds cheesy but that’s the way it makes me feel after writing it and reading it myself so many times in the process of creating it. One of the characters uses my Nan’s name which was tough to write initially.  

“At 48 I didn’t think I would be adding author to my CV. I just never gave myself the time until my fiancee Cassida encouraged me to just get on with it. Currently I’m using my knowledge and time in service as a lecturer at Berkshire College of Agriculture in Burchett’s Green, teaching the next generations of emergency service and military hopefuls about the protective services on a BTEC course. I’m in my third year of teaching now and recently qualified as a teacher. I have a son, Lewis who is 12, through my first marriage who gives me my proudest moments and a stepdaughter Eva and stepson Leo who are my fiancee’s children.  

“I was born in High Wycombe and after my divorce I returned here from Bedfordshire to be closer to my family. I attended Great Marlow School in my teens and Mr Sarsfield was a big inspiration to me, he was my art and form teacher and when we discovered I had a problem with some colours he was amazing at helping me vary my styles to accommodate and adapt my drawings and paintings. When I was there I was a sprinter in 100m and 200m and had the best time competing at local, regional and national level.” 

Karl can often be found enjoying coffee and baklava at the Cedar Cafe with Cassida and a “squeaky burger” at The Brittania. They also enjoy The Ivy in Marlow or The Crazy Bear for special occasions. “My students would say I spend all my time in the Nike store in Taplow as I do possess a ridiculous shoe collection… I know it’s a problem and I am seeking help!”