Debut novel out now
A funny, raucous middle-grade romp grounded in First Nations storytelling, featuring a mischievous character brought to life by debut author Allison Rocca.
For readers 8-12 years.
Published by University of Queensland Press.
A little hairy trickster, a new start, and one big mess
Joey Gibbs is always up for a laugh. What isn’t funny: the ‘Big Trouble’ he caused at his old school that meant his family had to move back home to Coolibah Creek. Joey’s going to keep his head down this time. New school, new mates, new start. But trouble seems to have a way of finding him.
When his sister and cousin start getting mysteriously pranked, Joey looks for answers from his Wakka Wakka culture. He discovers he’s caught the attention of the Junjardy, a little hairy trickster. Joey can’t resist making mischief again with his secret partner in crime. But as the jokes spiral out of control, he must work out what the Junjardy wants with him before disaster strikes.
Action-packed with loads of humour and heart, Joey and the Junjardy shows us how the smallest of creatures can help you to stand tall and proud.
Allison Rocca
Allison Rocca is a primary school teacher who has taught in classrooms from the suburbs of Australia, to remote villages in Asia and castle-like academies in Oxford. She is a descendant of Wakka Wakka and Kaanju people and her upbringing was rich in storytelling.
Allison likes to draw on the stories passed down by her highly respected Elder grandparents to write fiction for children and young adults. She lives and writes on Yuggera/Turrbal Country, Brisbane.
What readers are saying
“This silly, joyful and culturally strong book will have kids laughing out loud and seeing themselves and their communities in a positive way.”
“Allison’s stunning debut with Brenton’s playful illustrations is warm and full of heart... Joey and the Junjardy reminds us that no matter how far we wander, Culture is always calling us home and shaping us into who we’re meant to be.”
“A fast-moving, vibrant comedy-drama.”
“Allison Rocca’s debut book Joey and the Junjardy blends humour and heart to create a story with impact... perfect for readers who enjoyed Diary of a Wimpy Kid but are also looking for extra substance.”
“This is a fun, fast-paced book, filled with well-drawn characters... perfect for every kid who feels like an outsider, misunderstood, or in a spot of trouble.”
“Children will enjoy this fresh take on surviving and thriving in year five.”
“I absolutely applaud this debut novel... a great read-aloud that will also draw out some choice discussion topics.”
School Visits
Allison offers engaging and inspiring author talks and writing workshops for primary school students.
Find out more