Fisherman becomes author at 98

Mystic, Conn. (WTNH) - When Captain James Arruda Henry first wrote his book it was a type of personal journey for him. A journey which has now taken him beyond where he ever imagined he could go.

"The loss of Hank, a fellow fisherman," is one of the more poignant and painful stories in the collection written by Capt. Henry who is now a first time author at age 98.

"Everybody in here say when I read your book you're talking to me and makes me feel good," said Henry. "At least I done something good."

What may be most impressive is that Henry didn't admit he was illiterate until he was 92.

"I never expected this to be what it is and I appreciate everybody who helped me," said Henry.

"In A Fisherman's Language" is a collection of stories told from his perspective, his life. In third grade, Henry was forced to quit school to take on odd jobs.

"Everything you see in the book is the god's honest truth," said Henry.

He went on to build a successful life in Stonington, later inspired to learn to read and write by the story of George Dawson, the son of a slave who did the same.

"I said if he can do it I"m gonna try, I can do it," said Henry.

And he did. What makes this Mystic author most proud is a letter to his nephew, the first thing he ever wrote.

"I really enjoy looking at it and every now and then I read it again, I read it again," said Henry. "Oh gosh I can't believe I"m living in a different world now."

For his next book signing Henry won't have to go far, just to the lobby of Academy Point where he lives. Among the people he hopes will show up for that signing are his grandchildren, who he has not seen in years.