Andrew Layden describes himself as a poet, novelist, and travel junky. However, he needs to add one other thing: Treasure Hunt Creator! It seems he has taken some of his talent and applied it to crafting an exciting treasure hunt poem for a Hidden Opal Ring. The Poem with all the clues needed to take a searcher to its secreted location can be found on his website: The Treasure Poem
After being alerted by fellow treasure hunter, GeneticBlend, about this challenge, I thought it would be great to learn more about Andrew and his hunt. Hence, the following Six Questions!
Enjoy!
Six Questions with Andrew:
- 1Q) Hi Andrew! Thanks for the opportunity to ask you Six Questions! I suppose the first one should be what inspired you to create a treasure hunt?
Hi there! The pleasure is mine. I’ve always had a taste for adventure, but adventures are hard to come by in the suburban town where I grew up. All across the world, it’s the same for so many people. So consider this treasure hunt as an invitation to your very own adventure. You can research from home. Then, when you’re ready, go out and find the treasure.
- 2Q) Is it correct to assume the treasure is hidden somewhere in NYC? And do you have any expectations for when the ring might be found, like within a few months or maybe after a few years?
It is in the US. That’s all I’ll say. As for when the ring will be found, I expect for it to take a few months. Some lines are harder than others, but you guys are smart. It shouldn’t take you too long.
- 3Q) What is the value of the prize and why did you decide to hide an old opal ring? Do you have a picture of it? If so, can you share it with us?
Admittedly, the ring isn’t worth too much. Maybe $100. The true value lies in the intellectual challenge, not in the ring. Regardless, I hope the monetary value is incentive enough.
I just uploaded a picture to the post on my blog. It’s actually a picture from a jeweler’s website because all my photos had bad lighting. But the rings are of a similar make and their picture is much clearer, so you will know exactly what you’re looking for.
- 4Q)Have you been involved in trying to solve and find other hidden treasures; either currently or in the past?
Of course. Byron Preiss’s The Secret (A Treasure Hunt) struck my interest the most. To think, Preiss hid 12 different treasures in 1981 and only a few have been found since then. One of his treasures is believed to be in NYC. Since I’ve lived there before, I hoped to find it myself. So far, no luck.
- 5Q) As a world wide traveler, what place have you enjoyed most visiting? Where might you want to go next?
Well, I lived in St. Petersburg, Russia for five months while on a study abroad. It has a special place in my heart. However, I think I most enjoyed Vienna, Austria. The architecture was stunning, the food was scrumptious, and the people were nice enough to help a clueless American find his way around town.
My dream has always been to visit Italy. They have masterpieces of art, food, and wine. What else could you want? This July I’m finally going to Italy with my family. We will be touring around Venice, Florence, and Cinque Terre.
- 6Q) You are also a writer. Have you always wanted to write? Would you tell us more about some of the books you have written?
Writing has always been one of my greatest hobbies. When I was in elementary school, I finished my work as soon as possible so I could write silly short stories about made up animals. In high school, I went through an angsty poetry phase. Finally, I made my transition to novels just before I left for university. I think I wrote my first novel just to see if I actually could write something so time-consuming. Well, I guess I could because I’ve written five novels in total.
Right now, I’m focused on a fantasy series called The Ashborne Chronicles (the first two books are called How Black is the Shadow and Follow the Light). The story revolves around Kat, a peasant girl who goes on a quest for a relic to resurrect her dead brother. Her quest is simple enough, but Kat finds herself lost in a large world of politics, war, and ancient legends. I’ve put a lot into this series. I’ve created entire histories, maps, religions, tales, and even drinking songs. Hopefully, you too will lose yourself in my creation.
Thanks so much for taking time to answer a few quick questions- and for creating the fun hunt! Many of us are enjoying working on it, discussing it on the MW Forum, and loving the challenge. Seems like you are living an adventurous and exciting life—in and out of your books! I love the sound of your series and will surely check them out.
After you get back from Italy, I might ask for some tips on traveling there. My husband and I will be married 30 years come this October and we are planning a trip to Italy, as well. We are unsure of exactly when, but like you, it’s been a dream of ours and we’re getting closer to having it come a reality.
Have a great time!
Thanks again….
Best of luck with all that you seek! Treasure the Adventure!