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Out of My Mind


Out of My Mind is a collection of 72 short stories by R. Brian Campbell, an Author, Freelance Writer, Storyteller and Nature Photographer, from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. This contains a miscellany of stories, literally from out of the author’s mind, on a wide range of topics, in a variety of genres.  The stories are broken up into eight sections.

Short Shorts contains a number of very short stories that only have one thing in common. They are all 600 words or less. This is truly the best way to get a handle on the author’s writing style and find out if you will like what comes next.

All in the Family is a selection of fictional stories about families dealing with family dynamics ranging from a marriage proposal, dealing with parents and in-laws, children, marital breakdown, to going into business together. Some stories are tongue-in-cheek, while others are deadly serious. Some are both. All will stir your emotions.

Campbell Alternative News was inspired by Donald Trump’s coin of phrase, “Fake News” and is a series of political satire stories, mostly about President Trump, but also including some Canadian politics. Some of these stories are loosely based on actual events, some are made up entirely. If you are not able to find the humour in U.S.A. or Canadian politics, this section may not be for you.

My Political Viewpoint is the author’s blunt-as-a-spoon look at politics in Canada, the U.S.A. and around the world between the years of 2017 and 2019. This section offers the author’s opinion of events that have occurred in our world over these years and his blunt, often sarcastic view of what he thinks we should be doing about it. This section includes the author’s breakdown and comparison of U.S. President, Donald Trump with Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau.

The World As I See It takes the author’s blunt viewpoint out of the political arena and into the world in general. In this section, the author gives his opinion on the subjects of technology, multitasking, Winnipeg drivers, scammers, bullying, the Me Too movement, the environment, and much more.

Spooky Tales takes us into the darker side of the author’s imagination.  Lovers of Stephen King and the Twilight Zone are sure to enjoy this section. But beware, things are not always what they seem.

Seasonally Speaking takes us through several years of living in Winnipeg from the point of view of a winter hating Winnipegger. This section is divided according to seasons, not years, so it tends to jump around a bit. This section may remind Winnipeggers why they love their city and give non-Winnipeggers some insight into the Winnipeg state of mind.

Living the Adventure is the final and, potentially, most exciting section of the book. This section deals with heroic stories that include a fight over a river, a street gang, a ninja, dirty business dealings, escaped criminals and, finally, the end of life as we know it.

Happy Reading.

Out of this World

Brian’s second book, Out of This World, is mainly a collection of Science Fiction and Fantasy stories, intended to take you out of this world.   This book is broken into three sections, Off The Beaten Path, Through Time and Space, and Welcome To My World.  Here there be dragons, ogres, elves, ghosts, aliens and much, much more.

This book is broken into three sections.  The first section, Off The Beaten Path, and consists of thirteen random, often humorous stories, of a style that will be familiar to anyone who read Out of My Mind.  The author even includes a brief return to Campbell Alternative News, when intrepid reporter, Brian Campbell, attempts to interview a Modern Day Prophet.  From the author’s first story, I Talk To Animals, in which the author describes his relationship with the animals he has met in his travels, to Vampires in Whitby, to Adventurer for Hire, the author attempts to gently lead you out of your comfort zone and into the realms of his imagination.

The second section, Through Time and Space, plunges the reader directly into the author’s Science Fiction worlds, offering several potential futures for our world, and venturing off onto other Planets.  The last story in this section The Price of Peace, is, a 31,000 word novella, which is sure to be a favourite among Sci Fi fans.

The third and final section Welcome To My World, leads the reader into a fantasy world entirely of the author’s creation.  This section consists of ten separate, yet interconnected, fantasy stories, set in the same world, but involving different protagonists.  As the stories are interconnected, you will find that there are some reoccurring characters, occasionally leading us from one story to the next. This series of stories represents a foreshadowing of things to come.

Welcome to My World.

Or contact Brian at brian@brianthewriter.ca or phone: (204) 880-5505

Testimonials & Blog

Reviews

 A Great Read

Reviewed in Canada on September 19, 2020

Joan-Dianne Smith

  Recommends the Book Out of My Mind

January 21, 2021

I met Brian Campbell many years ago through Business Networking. I knew he wrote articles for magazines and helped other business owners with content for their websites, etc. What I never realised was what a multi-facetted mind Brian has! The picture on the front of the book says it all. And this book will have something for everyone, I’m sure. Off-the-wall-funny, spooky and adventurous, political comment and family points of view. To top it all, you can’t live in Winnipeg and NOT talk about the weather, and he does! My favourite story? “Legacy of the Master.” Beautifully told and very interesting, I loved it right to the end. Support local talent and support local businesses……order yours today!

Cheron Long-Landes

I found it entertaining

December 14, 2020

I just finished reading “Out of my Mind” a collection of short stories by Brian Campbell. I found it entertaining and extremely funny! It would be in your best interest to pick up this book and give it a read!

Philip Chiola

Brian’s book held my interest.

October 11, 2020

Previously I had no interest in political satire-actually had no idea even what it was. Upon reading certain chapters in Brian’s book, I now understand and appreciate this concept of humour.

The chapters about how families’ live and navigate thru less than ideal circumstances-could feel close to home for some of us readers.

A section of Spooky Tales definitely an entertaining experience. Lovers of various Halloween themes will appreciate the darker shades of grey…..well written and easy to visualize the story.

As a writer myself I truly appreciate the time-consuming task of choosing the exact word or phrases needed to convey the author’s precise thoughts and meanings.

Well done Brian.

I do highly recommend purchasing and reading Brian’s unique and personal narrative. Feel the emotional input. Hear what your mind is thinking as you experience this joy of reading. Visualize different situations presented in Living the Adventure.

What would you do?

Respond or React —-you’ll understand the energy Brian presents for our reading pleasure.

Marilyn Jestin.

Marilyn Jestin

I’m enjoying it very much

June 18, 2020

I’ve read half the book and it’s highly interesting and entertaining I’m enjoying it very much I recommend it to everyone who likes to read and have a bit of a giggle while doing so.

Tania Kallstrom

Thanks Brian for the personal delivery.

August 4, 2020

I enjoyed the fiction parts the most – brief insights into bigger stories left to the imagination, like a short story is meant to do.
I call it a light read, but it leaves behind some food for thought.

Amazon Customer

Interesting writer. Always something clever to say.

“Interesting writer. Always something clever to say.”

Ronald Hore
R.J.Hore Author

More From Brian Campbell

Brian’s first book, Out of My Mind, captured a wide range of personal experiences, relationships, and social issues. Peppered with unique perspectives, he led the reader through a journey of concepts, fantasies, opinions and random thoughts.
Brian’s second book, Out of This World, is a collection of Science Fiction and Fantasy stories, intended to take you out of this world. There are three sections, Off The Beaten Path, Through Time and Space, and Welcome To My World. The reader will encounter dragons, ogres, elves, ghosts, aliens- all elements of a rich fantasy life delivered with a light entertaining touch.
Brian has done it again! Bravo!
Joan-Dianne Smith
Winnipeg

If You Love Fantasy & Science Fiction

If you are a fan of fantasy and science fiction, this book is for you. Short stories that spark the imagination! Quirky and quick witted characters add to the fascination of each story. A book that ignites your curiosity. An enjoyable read.

SDD

A really great read!

Fun fun fun! Enjoyed very much! Even purchased for family for Christmas!!

Brian Campbell is out of his mind

Brian Campbell is out of his mind OR at least his 1st book is appropriately titled, “Out of My Mind”. He has succeeded in telling many a short stories in his book that are tongue-in-cheek, entertaining and even insightful. Sure to put a smile on your face as he entertains you over the summer in the backyard while you wait for the BBQ to get done.

His 2nd book is truly, “Out of This World” more of the humour and entertainment with stories worth retelling to friends and family. Better still, it is worth buying them a copy.

Siddha Param

Brian’s tales will take you into his world

The ideas that flow out of Brian’s mind are fully ready to take you into his world- I’m eagerly waiting to see what he and his witty writing have coming next

Markel Seitz

Interesting stories

Interesting stories based on life experiences and his imagination.

Penny Yellen

Brian has a vivid imagination!

Brian has a vivid imagination! His characters are quirky. His short stories contain unexpected endings. Many stories are easy reading with some that give you pause. You never know where your imagination will take you!

Denise Dorland

Blog

A New Beginning

As the dust and soot settled, on absolutely everything, a small, soot-covered figure stumbled out of the fireplace.  “He-cough, cough…Hel-cough, cough…Hello, I’m Alfie.  Are you Doug Thorsten?”             Doug looked down into large, bright blue eyes, staring out at him from what appeared to be a walking mound of soot, barely as high as his belt buckle. “Yeah,” he mumbled. “That’s me. Doug Thorsten.”             “Great.  I was looking for you, Santa needs-”

Mother’s Wrath

I blinked my eyes open.  I must have fallen asleep at my desk.  My vision cleared and I looked up at the ceiling. Wait a minute! This isn’t my office! This is- I sat bolt upright in bed. A young-looking, raven haired woman, wearing a form-fitting black blouse and breeches, sat on the foot of my bed, her legs curled under her, luminous green eyes staring intently at me.  “Salem! What are you doing in my bedroom?” “As I said, I have need of your services.” “Most of my clients meet me in my office.” She shrugged. “I am not most of your clients.  And you owe me a favour.” “Not in my bedroom, I don’t.” I pointed towards the door. “Get out. Wait for me in my kitchen.  We’ll talk there.” Salem smiled, revealing sharp pointed teeth, as she unfolded and glided out the door, pulling it closed behind her. I swung my feet to the floor and quickly dressed, all the while wondering if it was possible to make my bedroom cat proof.

Things Are Getting Rocky

“King Roland wishes your presence immediately.  You may accompany us now.” It was worth a try. “Very well,” I agreed, like I had a choice, getting up and reaching for my sword belt. “You may leave your sword here. It will not be needed.” I turned and glared at the soldier who had spoken.  “Now we are at an impasse.  You want me to go with you, and I am not leaving unarmed.  So, what’s it going to be?”  Without waiting for an answer, I took down the sword belt and strapped it around my waist. Then I turned back to face them, my broadsword now on my hip, where it belonged.

What a Bloody Mess

“I am Duke Osgood, of the Everbright Duchy, in the Butternut Kingdom.  My Daughter, the Lady Caroline, has been abducted.  I heard of your exploits from King Thaddeus.  Apparently, you rescued his daughter-” “Princess Rose. Yes, I remember her.” “Princess Rosalinda,” the Duke corrected, as if I cared. “Indeed,” I responded. “Yes, that was my first run-in with the dragon Gem and Ni. I remember it well.  Your daughter wasn’t kidnapped by a dragon, was she?” “No. Not a dragon. Caroline was abducted by vampires.” “Vampires?” I paused a moment, trying to find the right words.  But sometimes there was simply no nice way to say something. “Uh, I don’t know how to tell you this. My Lord, but-” The Duke raised his hands, stopping me from continuing. “I know what you are going to say, but that isn’t the case. It’s… I’d probably better explain from the beginning.” “That would be best,” I agreed, nodding.

Underground

He dropped to his knees and, using a multi-tool from his pack, began digging at the soft ground, using first the knife, then the axe tool.  Realizing that the soft patch was larger than he had originally thought, he switched to a compact folding shovel to complete the job. In a short time, he cleared away a space roughly the size of a manhole cover, and found himself looking into a vertical tunnel.  Looks like the Horne Lake Caves would have to wait. His curiosity was piqued. 

This Time It’s Personal

I pulled the dagger out and unfolded the parchment. If you ever want to see the boy alive again, bring 6000 gold pieces to Fool’s Passage below Archer’s Bluff when the moon shines directly overhead tonight.  The dagger blade was sunk deep in my door before I realized I was swinging it.  It snapped as I tried to pull it back out, leaving a portion of the tip still buried in the wood.  I had to consciously force myself not to crumple the parchment in my other hand.  I opened the door, stormed inside, slamming the door behind me, and dropped into my chair, my eyes never leaving the words on the parchment.

Trouble Squared

“NO!” “Plleeeeeease!” “I said, no!” Why can’t people just take a hint? “But you must help,” Prince Reggie insisted. “I must? Actually, I’m pretty sure I mustn’t do anything of the kind.” There was no way I was taking on this suicide mission. I rather enjoyed living. “But it took my Princess,” Reggie begged. “You have to help me get her back.”

An Old Buck’s Tale

“Grandpa! Grandpa!”  The two fawns came tearing across the meadow.  Bambi looked up from munching dandelions and smiled.  He always enjoyed it when Didi brought the fawns over. Their energy invigorated him.  “Grandpa, tell us a story,” Daisy begged, as she skidded to a halt in front of him. “Yes.  A story,” her brother, Lucky, agreed, as he crashed into his sister, knocking them both into the remaining dandelions, crushing them. Ah well, he should stop snacking anyway. The other bucks were beginning to ask when his fawns were due.  “Hi Dad,” his daughter, Didi greeted, then asked. “Where’s Mom?” “Hi Didi.  Your mother is in the field at the other end of the glade, foraging some vegetables for dinner.  She could probably use and extra hoof.” “I’m on it, Dad.” Bambi watched his daughter glide towards the human farmer’s field, then turned and smiled at his grandfawns. “A story, is it?  What story would you like to hear?”

Witch Adventure Now

To tell the truth, I didn’t want this job, which was what I was attempting to explain to my potential client.  But, sometimes you have to take the lesser of two nasty problems.  I only hope I made the right choice. “I’m sorry sir, but I don’t think I can help you.” “But my children. The witch has them, and I dread to think what she may do, if someone doesn’t rescue them soon.  Even now, we may be too late.”   The man was pleading with me.  He looked desperate, and it was obvious that he dearly loved his children. But he was also poor, which was where the problem lay.  “I understand, sir. I really do. And I sympathize with you.  But my fee-”

Double Trouble

“Run, Princess! Run!”  I hauled on the Princess’s arm as hard as I could, pulling her along behind me as fast as I could manage without dragging her off her feet.  Time was of the essence, but making her fall, then having to stop to help her back to her feet would be counterproductive.  So, I pulled and begged. “Please, Princess, we need to go faster.”

Events

Holiday Bazaar and Craft Sale

Attention fans of Holiday Craft Sales in general and books and nature pictures in particular, on Monday, December 16th, I will be selling my books and nature pictures at the Holiday Bazaar and Craft Sale at Sturgeon Creek 1 Retirement Residence, 10 Halloquist Drive, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.…

Consider Putting a Book Under the Tree This Christmas

Consider putting a book under the tree for that reader in your family this Christmas. This Saturday, December 7th, you have the perfect opportunity to get books, nature pictures and much, much more. The Imagination Collaboration, consisting of myself and N. A. Walker will be at St. Andrews Parish Hall,…

My Books and Nature Pictures Now sold at The Cozy Fox

Important Announcement: My books and nature pictures are now being sold at The Cozy Fox, in Selkirk, Manitoba. Drop in and check the place out, not only for my books and pictures, but for the many wonderful items carried in this Made in Manitoba store.637 B Morris Avenue, Selkirk, MB…

The choice is yours

Enjoy reading quirky and often humourous tales of the world we live in, or take a journey into strange and mystical realms. The choice is yours. Out of My Mind is a book of more than 70 short stories on a variety of topics, from family related stories, to political…