August & Jones tells the story of two 11-year-olds who embark on an adventurous ‘Must-See’ bucket list when one of them is diagnosed with a rare eye cancer that threatens their sight. Together, August and Jones face a difficult year, but manage to run over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, climb Australia’s highest mountain, see a world famous musical, go to an unforgettable art exhibit, and meet a rare monkey baby.
It’s about an amazing, supportive friendship between two kids with opposite personalities and interests. Jones is athletic, determined and loves the outdoors. August is bookish, shy, and wishes he didn’t have to play footy in the team coached by his dad.
Why was I inspired to write August & Jones?
In 2019, I read a newspaper story about Victorian children Mathilde Cross and Jarrah Podesta in the Sydney Morning Herald ‘Two of Us’ column. Jarrah explained how he had lost his sight to retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer, and how Mathilde had become his best friend and guide at school. They were funny and sweet and like many other readers, I was struck by their beautiful, supportive friendship, resilience, kindness and courage.
I thought at the time that a middle grade novel that could portray a bond like these two remarkable kids shared would be very special. I didn’t think I’d write it! A year or so later, I had a second book contracted to write for my publisher Hachette and I was still drawn to the idea. I began to write a book that I hoped would capture a little of Jarrah and Mathilde’s special friendship and sense of adventure.
In telling the story, I embarked on extensive medical research into children’s eye cancer, vision loss and blindness, talking to pediatric oncologists and a children’s cancer researcher. I also worked with sensitivity reader and writer, Olivia Muscat, who loved the story, but offered invaluable advice on what she describes as the “ins and outs” of being blind and living with disability. If anyone needs a brilliant consulting reader Olivia can be found on her website oliviamuscat.com
It wasn’t until I had a finished rough draft that I approached the Cross and Podesta families to tell them Mathilde and Jarrah had loosely inspired the characters of August and Jones. I wanted to be certain it would be published and ensure my research was spot on. I heard back very quickly and both families were thrilled and very supportive of the book. Mathilde and Jarrah (now in high school) have both read the book and made a few editorial suggestions that I was able to incorporate! We all launched the book together at Castlemaine Library in 2022.
Who is August & Jones for?
This is a realistic contemporary novel for children aged 9+…it’s the perfect follow on from The Little Wave or Wonder. It’s got action and adventure, funny parts, sad parts, and a hopeful, uplifting ending that will leave young readers feeling inspired to make their own bucket list and go on an adventure with a friend!