Description

Jack Jones lives with his family on an island off the coast of Western Australia, where his father is employed as a labourer building the new aerodrome. Set during World War II, the plot of Jack’s Island unfolds in a series of episodes; some hilarious, others deeply moving. Jack’s inquisitive, often impulsive nature leads him into adventures all over the island, always in the company of his best friend, Banjo. His experiences, and those of his neighbours, show Jack the human capacity for courage and kindness in difficult circumstances.

The novel is funny and affectionate, without ever trivialising the hardships of war and the lasting effects of the Great Depression. Teachers who have enjoyed working with Tim Winton’s Lockie Leonard series will find that Jack’s Island has the same broad appeal, and provides an ideal vehicle for exploring narrative and literary conventions, historical context, and a range of issues.