Humphrey Gudgeon Presents Debut Short Story Collection

On Wednesday 28 October 2026, Luxembourg-based author Humphrey Gudgeon presented his debut short story collection, The Struggles of Mr Small, published by Black Fountain Press, during a book launch at Café Rocas in Luxembourg-Ville.

The event attracted around 80 literature enthusiasts, filling the venue's Halloween-decorated upstairs space, where chairs were closely arranged and some attendees even remained standing.

Humble and reflective, the author engaged in a conversation, which was moderated by Anne-Marie Reuter of Black Fountain Press. He also red small excerpts from his book to the audience.

Originally from England, Humphrey Gudgeon graduated from the University of St Andrews in 1996, where he studied English and modern history. He subsequently worked in publishing, including as a senior editor at Oberon Books in London and managing director at Heinemann Educational Books. His career has also included running a guesthouse and working with antiques. After moving to Luxembourg in 2007, he still continues to live between both countries and is a husband and a father of four children.

During the presentation, the author reflected on his long relationship with writing and the circumstances that eventually led him to publish his work. "I've always written because that's just part of my identity. That's how I express myself, especially when I'm alone," he said.

The twelve stories in the collection explore childhood memories, family relationships, authority and the lasting effects of personal experiences.

Humphrey Gudgeon explained that he had not originally intended to connect the stories, instead truthfully drawing on his personal reflections and memories, including family relationships, authority and the lasting influence of personal experiences. However, when selecting them for the collection, he discovered that they fitted together naturally.

The writer said that the title originated from a childhood teddy bear named Mr Small, after a character from the British Mr Men children's book series.

The opening story, "Who's Got Mr Small?", follows a young boy growing up with a strict and unpredictable father, reflecting aspects of the author's own childhood as the eldest of ten children.

The collection explores themes beyond family relationships as well. A recurring theme is the idea of a psychological prison, shaped by memories, relationships and the passage of time.

"The ultimate prison is time. That's the human condition," he said, reflecting on how people often understand childhood experiences differently as they grow older.

The evening concluded with a Q&A session, during which audience members raised numerous questions. Afterwards, attendees had the opportunity to purchase signed copies of the book and speak with the author in person.

Speaking to Chronicle.lu, Humphrey Gudgeon also addressed the possibility of future translations, saying: "This is only the beginning." He confirmed that no translations had yet been completed and that further opportunities would depend on the book's reception.