Product Details

For children 10-14 years old.
Designed to be read with the whole family or as a classroom novel.
Themes: Body Image, Divorce, Self-Esteem, Acceptance

SYNOPSIS

If you’ve ever been forced to go on a family holiday to the middle of nowhere, you know it’s like getting a filling at the dentists. Everything from the long drives, boring day trips and beds that wage war on your spine, make it anything but a fun experience.

The thought of a two week holiday with his mother and annoying sister did not excite Jake Archibald one bit. If they were taking him to Disneyland or Hawaii, he would have been totally up for it. But Brimbrilla? Even Google Earth has never heard of that place! Besides, he already had enough on his mind with the separation of his parents and his weight issues.

But this trip will prove to be anything but boring. From getting into a series of crazy situations to making friends with a stand-up comedian and a kid named Shakespeare, Jake is about to experience the adventure of a lifetime.

THE STORY BEHIND THE STORY

This book was never supposed to be written. What started as a summer project that was abandoned after just two chapters slowly turned into a completed work. And the credit goes entirely to my students.

Back in 2002, whilst I was a mere student teacher, I noticed that kids weren’t utilising their quiet reading time very well. In fact, they were staring off into space. I decided to print off the two chapters as a means to provide the students with another reading option. Not only were they suddenly engaged in what they were reading, but they brought it home to their parents. I was getting messages from parents requesting the next chapter. And this started my journey towards completing the novel.

This certainly wouldn’t have happened were it not for the support and encouragement of my wonderful students over the many years!

fun facts about the book

• Due to teaching and parenting commitments the book took 18 years to complete and publish.

• The character of Nina was named after a student who approached me and thanked for writing a story that made her feel better about her body image issues.

• The character of David Driscoll is partially based on the brilliant Australian stand-up comedian, Dave Hughes. It also celebrates the many decorated Australian comedians named Dave such as Dave O’Neil and the late great Dave Grant.

• I started writing this as a skinny person. I got so consumed with Jake’s weight issues, I put on 25 kilos as a result. Now to the treadmill!