Early Life and Family
Chris Dignam grew up in a happy family home in Swansea, South Wales. He lived with his Mam, Dad, and a Shetland sheepdog named Shandy. Although his family reflected many aspects of a typical Welsh household, there were no miners in his generation, and none played rugby—perhaps due to his father’s Irish heritage. Interestingly, all family members, including the dog, were rather short.
Education
Chris’s academic journey began at Aberystwyth University. His student life resembled a Malcolm Pryce novel, albeit briefly, as he transferred to Swansea University after his first year. He graduated from Swansea with a degree in History.
Early Career
After finishing university, Chris worked for two years as a photographer and historical researcher with the National Trust. He then moved into the field of tourism, working for the local council. This was followed by a decade as an Emergency Planning Officer. He found this role even more peculiar than any Malcolm Pryce novel.
Return to Culture and Tourism
Eventually, Chris returned to the world of culture and tourism. In 2018, he left local government employment to pursue his passions: making jam, painting glass, and (occasionally) writing full-time. With this change, he finally achieved a proper work-life balance, with just a 30-second commute to his home office.
Writing Career
Chris has had a lifelong love of writing, dating back to his childhood. He has published academic articles for history journals and books. Most notably, he contributed to the Dictionary of Welsh Biography 1940-71 (NLW Press). He also served as Secretary of the county history society for two years. His literary influences are diverse, including Jules Verne, Terry Pratchett, Malcolm Pryce, Paul Sussman, and Edgar Allan Poe. Despite sharing a surname, Chris has never managed to finish reading all of Ulysses. He has promised himself to read both it and Moby Dick properly one day.
Children’s Books
Chris’s first foray into what he calls “proper literature” was A Hound in the House. It was not quite James Joyce, but it was a proud achievement anyway. The idea for The Largest Rabbit emerged during a drive home from work. This led to the creation of Rubbish the rabbit hound and his companions from the Warren. He had never set out to write for children. However, the book’s success convinced him otherwise. The popularity of his readings at schools and libraries also convinced him. Chris finds nothing more rewarding than engaging a classroom of eager children. Penny the greyhound often accompanies him, helping to show how gentle greyhounds can be with children and families.
Life in Clydach and Crafty Dog Books Cymru
Chris lives in Clydach, north of Swansea, with his wife Armelle. Together, they founded a craft business that later expanded into jams, chutneys, and ultimately Crafty Dog Books Cymru. When not involved in crafting or updating their website, Chris dedicates time to writing (well, he tries).
Inspiration from Penny
The story of Penny, their rescued greyhound, inspired his fourth book, “Found a Penny; The Memoires of a Crafty Dog”. It recounts her journey from birth through racing and abandonment, to her new life as The Crafty Dog—all told in her own words.
The Current Crafty Dog
Gwennie became the new Crafty Dog in 2023. She now represents greyhounds at craft fairs, greyhound talks and glass painting classes.
Other Writing and Interests
Chris once wrote a weekly blog for the South Wales Evening Post. It covered topics such as greyhounds, crafty dogs, and jam-making. Notably, this was the same newspaper where Dylan Thomas once wrote, although in a non-digital era.
Passions
Chris has many great loves. His wife and rescued greyhounds are among them. He also loves music, writing, public readings, and book signings. Holidays in the motorhome are another favourite. He often wonders, as a true Celtic soul, whether he simply loves too much.
