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A Dolphin Called Jock
The compelling, heart-warming story of how a traumatised young woman found peace through her friendship with an injured dolphin called Jock.
'In this unputdownable account of the healing power of nature and the discovery of trust, an orphaned river dolphin gives a young woman a new life and a profound purpose - to help save the beautiful, sentient creatures that saved her.' Brad Collis, author of Snowy and Fields of Discovery
When Melody Horrill arrived as a student at the University of South Australia she was a troubled and lost young woman, hiding behind a carefully crafted exterior. She had experienced a childhood of emotional and physical trauma mainly at the hands of her violent father that was as damaging as it was brutal.
One day Melody volunteered to help her university lecturer monitor pods of river dolphins that lived in the waters of Port Adelaide. There for the first time she encountered Jock, a solitary dolphin with a maimed fin, who lived apart from the highly social pods. Melody was to form a bond with Jock that gave her the key to freeing herself from the demons of her own past, and their extraordinary friendship was the start of a long-term mission to try to save the river dolphins.
Beautifully written and filled with insight and compassion, Melody's memoir details her life-changing relationship with the river dolphins, and how Jock helped her to heal.
'In this unputdownable account of the healing power of nature and the discovery of trust, an orphaned river dolphin gives a young woman a new life and a profound purpose - to help save the beautiful, sentient creatures that saved her.' Brad Collis, author of Snowy and Fields of Discovery
When Melody Horrill arrived as a student at the University of South Australia she was a troubled and lost young woman, hiding behind a carefully crafted exterior. She had experienced a childhood of emotional and physical trauma mainly at the hands of her violent father that was as damaging as it was brutal.
One day Melody volunteered to help her university lecturer monitor pods of river dolphins that lived in the waters of Port Adelaide. There for the first time she encountered Jock, a solitary dolphin with a maimed fin, who lived apart from the highly social pods. Melody was to form a bond with Jock that gave her the key to freeing herself from the demons of her own past, and their extraordinary friendship was the start of a long-term mission to try to save the river dolphins.
Beautifully written and filled with insight and compassion, Melody's memoir details her life-changing relationship with the river dolphins, and how Jock helped her to heal.
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Published September 26, 2023
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About the author
Melody Horrill
6 books7 followersMelody Horrill is an award-winning journalist, presenter, and documentary producer, with more than 20 years' experience in broadcast media both in Australia and overseas.
A familiar face on TV in South Australia, she is well-known for her passionate writing and filming about the wild dolphins in the Port River. Her documentary A Dance with a Dolphin was broadcast across Australia on Network 10 and around the globe on CNN, with Melody presenting it from the US. It was one of three documentaries she produced for the 10 Network.
Melody is well known for her work as a senior science and environment reporter for ABC News, Channel 9 News, Channel 10 News and Channel 7 News and across the globe for the CNN World Report. She also presented the weekday weather for Channel 7 in Adelaide for almost 10 years.
In the mid 90’s Melody quit her first full time job to co-create a charity aimed at raising awareness about Adelaide’s unique dolphins. This work led to the formation of Australia’s first Dolphin Sanctuary in the Port River, SA. She continues lobbying for the protection of Adelaide’s dolphins even though she now lives in Melbourne.
A familiar face on TV in South Australia, she is well-known for her passionate writing and filming about the wild dolphins in the Port River. Her documentary A Dance with a Dolphin was broadcast across Australia on Network 10 and around the globe on CNN, with Melody presenting it from the US. It was one of three documentaries she produced for the 10 Network.
Melody is well known for her work as a senior science and environment reporter for ABC News, Channel 9 News, Channel 10 News and Channel 7 News and across the globe for the CNN World Report. She also presented the weekday weather for Channel 7 in Adelaide for almost 10 years.
In the mid 90’s Melody quit her first full time job to co-create a charity aimed at raising awareness about Adelaide’s unique dolphins. This work led to the formation of Australia’s first Dolphin Sanctuary in the Port River, SA. She continues lobbying for the protection of Adelaide’s dolphins even though she now lives in Melbourne.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 14, 2023
Melody Horrill’s family life had been dysfunctional with bouts of violence. She knew what it felt like to be in constant fear, but she never felt or understood love.
For the first time in a long time, Melody was excited as she was going out onto the Port River to visit dolphins with one of her university lecturers, Dr Mike Bosley.
It’s on this trip she first sees Jock the dolphin. Melody can see straight away there is something wrong with his dorsal fin. Mike tells Melody that he’s been tangled up in fishing line which has cut into his flesh when he was a baby and the line disfigured his fin as he was growing.
Melody wonders why Jock is on his own and not with the other dolphins seeing as they live in pods and are social creatures. What Melody also didn’t know was that her connection with this dolphin would teach her so much including finding inner peace and a connection to the natural world.
A Dolphin Called Jock by Aussie author Melody Horrill is an emotional and touching memoir and one I will never forget. There were times when I had tears in my eyes, other times I would have a smile on my face and a lot of the time I just wanted to give Melody a hug. Melody’s father was a violent and brutal man whose actions impacted and scarred the whole family. This is the fifth book I’ve read for this year (2023) and so far this is my favourite for the year. The relationship between Melody and Jock is unlike any other and I’m so pleased that I read this book. Thank you for sharing your story with us, Melody. Something tells me whatever you want to do next you will succeed and it will be a wonderful journey as you are a remarkable woman. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
For the first time in a long time, Melody was excited as she was going out onto the Port River to visit dolphins with one of her university lecturers, Dr Mike Bosley.
It’s on this trip she first sees Jock the dolphin. Melody can see straight away there is something wrong with his dorsal fin. Mike tells Melody that he’s been tangled up in fishing line which has cut into his flesh when he was a baby and the line disfigured his fin as he was growing.
Melody wonders why Jock is on his own and not with the other dolphins seeing as they live in pods and are social creatures. What Melody also didn’t know was that her connection with this dolphin would teach her so much including finding inner peace and a connection to the natural world.
A Dolphin Called Jock by Aussie author Melody Horrill is an emotional and touching memoir and one I will never forget. There were times when I had tears in my eyes, other times I would have a smile on my face and a lot of the time I just wanted to give Melody a hug. Melody’s father was a violent and brutal man whose actions impacted and scarred the whole family. This is the fifth book I’ve read for this year (2023) and so far this is my favourite for the year. The relationship between Melody and Jock is unlike any other and I’m so pleased that I read this book. Thank you for sharing your story with us, Melody. Something tells me whatever you want to do next you will succeed and it will be a wonderful journey as you are a remarkable woman. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
June 23, 2022
Melody Horrill, her brother Mark and their mother accompanied their father to Australia when they left England. Their two older siblings married before Melody and family left, staying in England. Their father was a brutal, violent man and their mum was the frequent recipient of his anger. But so were the children but they couldn't get away from him. Thinking he would be a different man in Australia, the family was soon disabused of that notion, and life continued as it always had with the police frequent visitors to their house in Adelaide.
When Melody eventually went to the University of South Australia, her confidence was at its lowest ebb. But she was determined to try, and her tutor of her first lecture, Dr Mike Bossley, was instrumental in her meeting Jock, the dolphin in Port River in Adelaide. Melody's affinity with Jock amazed her as well as everyone around. When Mike, Steve the cameraman, and Mel went out each week in the boat to see Jock and the other dolphins, working with them, Jock always came to them, swimming around the boat and encouraging Mel to enter the water with him. Jock's gentle nature and playfulness soothed Mel's soul and it wasn't long before she trusted Jock implicitly. A beautiful relationship followed...
A Dolphin Called Jock is an important memoir for Aussie author Melody Horrill. It draws attention to the plight of the dolphins through her interactions with Jock and other dolphins, and it's also cathartic as she tries to put the past in the past, locking the door. Domestic violence is far too prevalent at the moment - but it's not something new, as Melody's story shows. I wish her all the best in her future and thank her for sharing her story of Jock. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my uncorrected proof ARC which I won.
When Melody eventually went to the University of South Australia, her confidence was at its lowest ebb. But she was determined to try, and her tutor of her first lecture, Dr Mike Bossley, was instrumental in her meeting Jock, the dolphin in Port River in Adelaide. Melody's affinity with Jock amazed her as well as everyone around. When Mike, Steve the cameraman, and Mel went out each week in the boat to see Jock and the other dolphins, working with them, Jock always came to them, swimming around the boat and encouraging Mel to enter the water with him. Jock's gentle nature and playfulness soothed Mel's soul and it wasn't long before she trusted Jock implicitly. A beautiful relationship followed...
A Dolphin Called Jock is an important memoir for Aussie author Melody Horrill. It draws attention to the plight of the dolphins through her interactions with Jock and other dolphins, and it's also cathartic as she tries to put the past in the past, locking the door. Domestic violence is far too prevalent at the moment - but it's not something new, as Melody's story shows. I wish her all the best in her future and thank her for sharing her story of Jock. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my uncorrected proof ARC which I won.
June 20, 2022
An incredible autobiography about a young girl, her violent and traumatic and abusive childhood. How she navigated her way through life, and the gems of people and animals she has met among the way that has helped her to stay grounded and stay focused on life.
Her relationship with her Horse Eddie, her English Teacher who saw talent in her and encouraged her, and then later on as an adult her relationship with the Dolphin named Jock. These people have had a huge impact on Melody and without their friendship and encouragement, Melody would be a shell of the person that she is today.
Jock and Melody had a very close relationship, both of them having come from traumatic and abusive childhoods. Melody father was abusive and violent, the police being called to their house multiple times a week.
Melody's story is based on how she has survived such a traumatic childhood, with the friendship of Jock the Dolphin.
This is quite a sad, but also a beautiful story.
Thankyou to Allen & Unwin for my advanced copy, in return I offer my honest review.
4 Stars: I enjoyed it and would recommend it to people who like the genre. I will definitely want to read more books by this author
Please visit my Facebook page and blog to see all of my past and future book reviews.
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Her relationship with her Horse Eddie, her English Teacher who saw talent in her and encouraged her, and then later on as an adult her relationship with the Dolphin named Jock. These people have had a huge impact on Melody and without their friendship and encouragement, Melody would be a shell of the person that she is today.
Jock and Melody had a very close relationship, both of them having come from traumatic and abusive childhoods. Melody father was abusive and violent, the police being called to their house multiple times a week.
Melody's story is based on how she has survived such a traumatic childhood, with the friendship of Jock the Dolphin.
This is quite a sad, but also a beautiful story.
Thankyou to Allen & Unwin for my advanced copy, in return I offer my honest review.
4 Stars: I enjoyed it and would recommend it to people who like the genre. I will definitely want to read more books by this author
Please visit my Facebook page and blog to see all of my past and future book reviews.
https://www.facebook.com/kyliesbookad...
https://kyliesbookaddictreviews.blogs...
June 28, 2022
Melody Horrill's memoir is both beautiful and distressing, but ultimately also contains a shimmer of hope. Let's start with the beautiful. The beautiful is the lyrical descriptions of the dolphins, of light on the water, of the orchids at Singapore as Melody, her parents her brother Mark make their way from Cornwall to Australia. You could also almost feel the heat and humidity of Singapore. It brought back memories for me of a one day stopover there many years ago on the way to Europe. Melody's twin sisters had married young and stayed behind in the UK. Melody was bridesmaid for both weddings.
The descriptions of the dolphins which Melody encounters after she comes to Australia are magic. I loved the picture of a mother dolphin teaching her calf to breathe, and the way the dolphins work together to help each other as the fish leap from the water during a dolphin feeding frenzy. It is in Adelaide, South Australia, that Melody meets Jock. Jock is a dolphin who has has been abused and hurt. Yet he still responds to humans. Jock and Melody form a close relationship. I loved the playful antics of Jock and the help his dolphin friendship provides for Melody.
Then there is the far from beautiful with that of a violence of Melody’s abusive father who takes it out on his wife and children. I struggled to read these scenes, one scene in particular, but all of them are horrific. Sadly not much as changed these days domestic violence is still prevalent, a spreading stain on our society. Good on Melody for exposing it by attention to the problem from her own family’s experience. As the story unfolds, it also made me angry how often the law lets the victims of violence and cruelty down. Even after she and her mother escape his house, the danger and threats and violence persist. The author also highlights the cruelty of humans to animals and in particular these gracious creatures of the sea and how much she learned and took heart from the resilience of the dolphins. At the end of the book she gives suggestions of organisations and ways people can help the in the plight of the dolphins.
There were couple of editing issues that needed to be fixed, but my copy from A&U was an ARC so hopefully these are addressed before the book is printed. My thanks go to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review. A challenging but worthwhile read as the reader sees how Melody moves from her past to make a life for herself. Highly recommended.
The descriptions of the dolphins which Melody encounters after she comes to Australia are magic. I loved the picture of a mother dolphin teaching her calf to breathe, and the way the dolphins work together to help each other as the fish leap from the water during a dolphin feeding frenzy. It is in Adelaide, South Australia, that Melody meets Jock. Jock is a dolphin who has has been abused and hurt. Yet he still responds to humans. Jock and Melody form a close relationship. I loved the playful antics of Jock and the help his dolphin friendship provides for Melody.
Then there is the far from beautiful with that of a violence of Melody’s abusive father who takes it out on his wife and children. I struggled to read these scenes, one scene in particular, but all of them are horrific. Sadly not much as changed these days domestic violence is still prevalent, a spreading stain on our society. Good on Melody for exposing it by attention to the problem from her own family’s experience. As the story unfolds, it also made me angry how often the law lets the victims of violence and cruelty down. Even after she and her mother escape his house, the danger and threats and violence persist. The author also highlights the cruelty of humans to animals and in particular these gracious creatures of the sea and how much she learned and took heart from the resilience of the dolphins. At the end of the book she gives suggestions of organisations and ways people can help the in the plight of the dolphins.
There were couple of editing issues that needed to be fixed, but my copy from A&U was an ARC so hopefully these are addressed before the book is printed. My thanks go to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review. A challenging but worthwhile read as the reader sees how Melody moves from her past to make a life for herself. Highly recommended.
June 1, 2022
This is not an 'I'm a famous person' autobiography, although the author is well known in her home town of Adelaide, Australia. Rather, it's the very personal and deeply affecting story of a girl growing up in the shadow of an abusive father, navigating without a map through wrenching incidents and a gradually escalating trauma, reaching an awful crescendo as events unfold. In some aspects, including her relationship with her mother, she is unflinchingly honest despite her obvious love for her family - there are two scenes in particular that are very troubling in terms of what they show about how difficult parental relationships can twist the universe around a child into an impossible unreality. But, intertwined with her awful story are vignettes of healing, mostly involving the titular dolphin but also with other dolphins, creatures and people that she met during her journey and who helped her heal and find herself. The two strands come together at the end as she reflects on her voyage of healing and implicitly asks us to reflect on ours.
Horrill writes well, never more so than when she is placing herself in the book as a little girl, and telling her story through the eyes of that girl. She is very careful not to embellish, interpret, or preach about her early experiences, but to leave interpretation to the reader, although the temptation to reinterpret events through adult eyes must have been vast. Even later in her journey, she takes care to bring her perspective back to that of a young and still confused woman trying to understand the world through one revelation at a time.
I am lucky enough to have not have had a tenth of Horrill's family experiences, yet I still found myself profoundly moved for that little girl, and the teenager and young adult that she became. I'm sure I'm not the only one who will find their perspectives shifted for the better. Plus, we get to read a lot about dolphins, and of course the book also carries a very sincere message about our need to care for nature better (and the Port River dolphins in particular) if we are to save ourselves. Highly recommended.
Horrill writes well, never more so than when she is placing herself in the book as a little girl, and telling her story through the eyes of that girl. She is very careful not to embellish, interpret, or preach about her early experiences, but to leave interpretation to the reader, although the temptation to reinterpret events through adult eyes must have been vast. Even later in her journey, she takes care to bring her perspective back to that of a young and still confused woman trying to understand the world through one revelation at a time.
I am lucky enough to have not have had a tenth of Horrill's family experiences, yet I still found myself profoundly moved for that little girl, and the teenager and young adult that she became. I'm sure I'm not the only one who will find their perspectives shifted for the better. Plus, we get to read a lot about dolphins, and of course the book also carries a very sincere message about our need to care for nature better (and the Port River dolphins in particular) if we are to save ourselves. Highly recommended.
January 30, 2026
People's stories are important. The rating is entirely to do with how well I thought the parts about the dolphins were combined with the parts about the author's life and how interesting the writing style was.
July 19, 2022
Wow 🤩 this book 👍👍, I bought it at the book launch (I had no idea what it was about as I was invited by a friend). I picked it up to read on Saturday & could not put it down. Finished it at 3am after an amazing roller coaster of emotions. So perfectly balanced, with the heartwarming interactions of the dolphins giving a slight reprieve to the sadness of Melody’s childhood.
I truly believe this would make a fabulous movie, as not only will it inspire others who have gone through such unbelievable trauma, but it also makes those of us with happy childhood’s extremely grateful. 🙏
I gave my mother some extra loving 🥰 💕on Sunday as I was truly thankful to have been raised in such a positive & encouraging environment.
Melody, you are amazing & such a beautiful soul. It was a privilege to have met you & am so glad Tony insisted on you signing my book as it means so much more to me now. 🥰 I wish you every success & eagerly await your next book (there HAS to be another). Your writing style is too great to be wasted . 👍
I truly believe this would make a fabulous movie, as not only will it inspire others who have gone through such unbelievable trauma, but it also makes those of us with happy childhood’s extremely grateful. 🙏
I gave my mother some extra loving 🥰 💕on Sunday as I was truly thankful to have been raised in such a positive & encouraging environment.
Melody, you are amazing & such a beautiful soul. It was a privilege to have met you & am so glad Tony insisted on you signing my book as it means so much more to me now. 🥰 I wish you every success & eagerly await your next book (there HAS to be another). Your writing style is too great to be wasted . 👍
July 18, 2022
A Dolphin called Jock is an incredibly honest, emotional, and poignant story, taking us on a journey from sadness and despair to triumph. A harrowing tale of Melody Horrill’s childhood of domestic violence and abuse, at times I felt as though I was reading my own childhood story, other times, astounded by her strength, resilience, and empathy. A gentle, dreamy child, Melody longed for a simple, peaceful life. These moments were few and far between, until connecting with an injured dolphin named Jock. In Jock, she finds unconditional love and acceptance; a spiritual connection, and an opportunity for healing from the pain that ravaged her soul. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit; an example of how to sublimate one's pain, and tragedy, into a passion- a purpose, that supports the greater good of all. Thank you, Melody.
July 17, 2022
This book could easily be called a woman called Melody, as is the intertwined relationship between two of God's creatures. Both showing the scars of their past. One from the trust shown to those who would halm, one damaged by the scourge of domestic violence but together they find unconditional love the kind that has no boundaries. It is a story of a young girl trying to find love from loveless parents who's fight to find her purpose in life is strangely met by a dolphin who gives her strength and belief in herself. A real page turner, this is a book that you don't borrow it is a book to owned
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2022
This is a touching true story about how a young woman managed to overcome the trauma of growing up in a dysfunctional and violent family through her relationship with the dolphins in the Port River in Adelaide, particular a loner named Jock. Shocking accounts of her family life are interspersed with delightful descriptions of the intelligent and playful antics of the dolphins she was researching. The contrast between the behaviours of certain humans and the dolphins is stark.
July 16, 2022
One of the most inspirational and emotionally charged books I have read in a very long time. The text is totally engaging and the 2 key tenets of domestic violence contrasted against the uplifting story of Jock 'and his Port River dolphin mates' literally brings a smile to one's face and a tear to the eyes. Melody! take a bow and big bow for what you have achieved in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed every page of what is, without doubt, the book of the year.
July 19, 2022
We may have individual analyses of how Melody Horrill might have coped with the family violence, and found a way forward through growing to love nature, especially dolphins. In books like this, it's easy to think of the subject as a victim. Re-reading this memoir I see a strong person coming to embrace the world with gusto, warmth and also humour. Delve deeply and you'll find some very funny lines, and a sparkling wit. Melody is a great observer and a superb story-teller. Must read.
July 13, 2022
A great read of the bonding of a young woman and a dolphin. Once you start reading this book it is hard to put it down. Melody has put the safety and well-being of Jock ahead of herself. A must read, thanks Melody you are an inspiration.
July 17, 2022
A remarkable book. I feel the pain, the passion. Melody’s words brilliantly paint grief, despair and joy. Make no mistake, this is a book about hope and god only knows we need that in the world right now. I can’t recommend highly enough.
February 17, 2023
A Dolphin called Jock -Melody Horrill.👏😍
Seeing as I typically tend to gravitate towards fiction and paranormal, I was a bit concerned that A Dolphin called Jock was going to be too serious for me. Oh, how wrong I was.
It isn’t just serious; this is as real as it gets! A story which is humbling, so incredibly raw and honest, relaying the unrelenting terror and heartbreak of living with brutal violence.
Yet somehow, throughout this darkness, Melody Horrill shines brilliantly as the incredibly kind, courageous, fun-loving heroine.
And the kind of person we can all learn from.
Being from SA and growing up in the same era, I felt myself being taken along with her, revelling in the vividness of her narrative- the cars, the pulse of Adelaide, those beloved eighties songs, the beaches and the spectacular marine life.
The whole time, I felt that I was there, holding her hand, and assuring her that all was going to be OK.
Jock and the dolphins stole my heart, and their story is both powerful and important.
Melody’s story is so superbly written & unforgettable, there simply just aren’t enough stars for this book!!!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Seeing as I typically tend to gravitate towards fiction and paranormal, I was a bit concerned that A Dolphin called Jock was going to be too serious for me. Oh, how wrong I was.
It isn’t just serious; this is as real as it gets! A story which is humbling, so incredibly raw and honest, relaying the unrelenting terror and heartbreak of living with brutal violence.
Yet somehow, throughout this darkness, Melody Horrill shines brilliantly as the incredibly kind, courageous, fun-loving heroine.
And the kind of person we can all learn from.
Being from SA and growing up in the same era, I felt myself being taken along with her, revelling in the vividness of her narrative- the cars, the pulse of Adelaide, those beloved eighties songs, the beaches and the spectacular marine life.
The whole time, I felt that I was there, holding her hand, and assuring her that all was going to be OK.
Jock and the dolphins stole my heart, and their story is both powerful and important.
Melody’s story is so superbly written & unforgettable, there simply just aren’t enough stars for this book!!!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
September 3, 2022
I like to read but always seem to struggle to find the time these days. I worked briefly with Melody over 25 years ago & always knew of her passion for the Port River dolphins but had no idea of the horrific childhood her mother and siblings had endured at the hands of her abusive father.
A Dolphin called Jack is a love story. It takes you on a roller coaster ride seamlessly switching from the unfathomable torture of Melody’s home life to the joys of sharing some breathlessly rare up close experiences with one of natures most intelligent creatures. You will yearn to have Jock park his beautiful snout in your hands, just as he did for Melody.
Not for the faint hearted but is beautifully written by an amazing woman who opens her heart to share her story.
I couldnt put it down.
A Dolphin called Jack is a love story. It takes you on a roller coaster ride seamlessly switching from the unfathomable torture of Melody’s home life to the joys of sharing some breathlessly rare up close experiences with one of natures most intelligent creatures. You will yearn to have Jock park his beautiful snout in your hands, just as he did for Melody.
Not for the faint hearted but is beautifully written by an amazing woman who opens her heart to share her story.
I couldnt put it down.
September 8, 2022
Have always loved dolphins, this memoir puts them in whole new light!
January 21, 2023
In “A dolphin called Jock”, Melody Horrill tells the incredible story of how she overcame such a traumatic start to life to achieve so much, both personally and professionally. It’s heartbreaking, it’s inspiring, it’s powerful, and it’s moving. If anyone is living proof of being born into things we don’t have to become, it’s Mel.
October 11, 2024
“Dolphins bring light and optimism.”
“Dolphins can inspire us to find the light.”
It took me a number of days to read this heart-wrenching memoir by Melody Horrill. I was overcome with such emotion that I had to keep taking breaks. I could feel the pain pour from the pages into my heart—like searing words through a fragile funnel. The extensive trauma and ongoing loss described in vivid and unforgettable detail, squeezed out my innermost thoughts. Melody has a real way with words and their power drew me in— to such an extent, I felt as though I was there in the scenes with her, while she walked, stumbled, swam and ran through endless valleys, waterways and up mountain peaks. Incidents of her homelife and then her time with the dolphins, moved me deeply. The horrors she experienced along with her brother and mother, at the hands of her violent father, are worse than any fiction novelist could conjure. But the freedom she expressed when in the water with the dolphins, was encouraging. This came after the damage done in childhood and teenage years when it left her void of trust and love. While in university, she worked as a field research assistant for her psychology instructor. This was where her real learning began— on the water. These adventures in and out of the boat were the highlight of the book. I could feel Melody’s excitement as she entered new territory with Jock the dolphin. He became the hero, a special teacher and compassionate friend who helped her heal and connect with her true self.
The memoir ebbs and flows like the sea moving back and forth from present to past. It begins in a current timeline with the Prologue where Melody is full of anticipation to learn more about these exquisite dolphins. The excitement mounts as she gets ready to go out on Port River in Adelaide with her lecturer Dr. Mike Bossley.
In the world of symbolism, dolphins represent peace and harmony. Watching them at play shows how joyful and graceful they are but they are also known to be intelligent, generous and protective, as Melody discovered when Jock thought she was drowning and tried to save her. Dolphins are cooperative but are free spirited too, as one can see watching a pod (group of dolphins) in motion. In chapter one, we are introduced to the gorgeous, though physically scarred Jock. Melody’s thoughts of him are written down in a diary like manner where she expresses great feelings of wonder and tenderness for her new flipper friend. There are many beautiful images here that express both delight and sorrow.
Her journey is a complex one and all lessons she learns from Jock and the other dolphins inspire and free her. But it takes time and we are led back into the past where pain and suffering abound. The beloved books of C. S Lewis’s Narnia Chronicles are mentioned and we discover how they comforted and sparked her creative mind. As she said, ‘Although life did not hold much joy, I found happiness in my imagination.’
She had an interest in English Lit and journalism and made a decision to go back to school and complete year twelve, then university. This is the path that led her to healing as it was during her psychology studies she met Mike, her lecturer. He studied dolphins, their behaviour and how people could learn from them. Melody was keen to enter that world as his assistant and when she did, she developed a unique connection with dolphins—particularly Jock and also Millie who inspired her. Through these two and watching others, she developed courage and resilience in the face of adversity—and how to keep moving forward when bad things happened to her.
I learned a great deal about dolphin behaviour from reading The Dolphin Who Saved Me and was amazed by their intelligence and ability to help humans—even though humans have often caused them harm. Their unique communication skills with each other, and with those outside their realm, are amazing.
I got to know Melody through her second book Sheltered when Ultimo Press offered me a review copy. I was quite taken with the rescued animal stories and could see what a caring soul she is and how much she loves, protects and respects them. When she offered me a copy of The Dolphin Who Saved Me, I was more than keen to read her story but nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to encounter. The pain and trauma she experienced growing up, the losses and setbacks, the fear and isolation, the abuse and rejection— were far bigger than any human could imagine or endure. But endure she has and learned from her past to help those who are hurting, broken, lost and abandoned. And that includes animals.
Looking at the stark reality of Melody’s beginnings, the joy she experienced later when she met Jock is an unexpected by-product for it is in sharp contrast to the life she underwent. He was the beautiful soul who inspired, uplifted and led her to light and optimism. And this book is a tribute to him for so many reasons. Just as the message in her second book, Sheltered, is about animals that have been rescued, it is also about how they have rescued their rescuers! We may save them from the cruelty found sometimes in this world, but their presence in our lives can also lead us to healing, hope and wholeness. Their unconditional love, devotion and pure demonstrations teach us lessons we might never have learned otherwise. And for Melody, dolphins were her teachers, particularly Jock who became her hero.
I really cannot express enough the power and importance of Melody’s story with its raw, genuine honesty. It takes great courage to share what she has experienced and I am so happy she overcame the odds. I could easily imagine Aslan, Narnia’s lion or Jock, the dolphin, nudging her back on the path with their noses when things became too difficult. And thankfully she felt their messages of encouragement and never gave up, when she had every reason to. This has also made her victories even more special amid the trials she endured. The result is her well-deserved joy. A joy that shines so brightly it crushes the disappointments, despair and cruelty that came beforehand.
Melody has blossomed into an incredibly accomplished person and made a huge difference in both humans’ and animals’ lives. And even though she wears a mosaic of scars on her heart, mind and soul, they are part of who she is, but they do not define her. They have been woven into a beautiful tapestry of experience with their various shades and colours and now they exhibit her love, kindness and strength. I admire this woman who is a true champion in every way. She has every reason to celebrate her hard earned accomplishments that have been forged in fire. They will stand the test of time. This is, without doubt, the most profound unforgettable memoir I have ever read. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Melody for a copy of her book for review.
“Dolphins can inspire us to find the light.”
It took me a number of days to read this heart-wrenching memoir by Melody Horrill. I was overcome with such emotion that I had to keep taking breaks. I could feel the pain pour from the pages into my heart—like searing words through a fragile funnel. The extensive trauma and ongoing loss described in vivid and unforgettable detail, squeezed out my innermost thoughts. Melody has a real way with words and their power drew me in— to such an extent, I felt as though I was there in the scenes with her, while she walked, stumbled, swam and ran through endless valleys, waterways and up mountain peaks. Incidents of her homelife and then her time with the dolphins, moved me deeply. The horrors she experienced along with her brother and mother, at the hands of her violent father, are worse than any fiction novelist could conjure. But the freedom she expressed when in the water with the dolphins, was encouraging. This came after the damage done in childhood and teenage years when it left her void of trust and love. While in university, she worked as a field research assistant for her psychology instructor. This was where her real learning began— on the water. These adventures in and out of the boat were the highlight of the book. I could feel Melody’s excitement as she entered new territory with Jock the dolphin. He became the hero, a special teacher and compassionate friend who helped her heal and connect with her true self.
The memoir ebbs and flows like the sea moving back and forth from present to past. It begins in a current timeline with the Prologue where Melody is full of anticipation to learn more about these exquisite dolphins. The excitement mounts as she gets ready to go out on Port River in Adelaide with her lecturer Dr. Mike Bossley.
In the world of symbolism, dolphins represent peace and harmony. Watching them at play shows how joyful and graceful they are but they are also known to be intelligent, generous and protective, as Melody discovered when Jock thought she was drowning and tried to save her. Dolphins are cooperative but are free spirited too, as one can see watching a pod (group of dolphins) in motion. In chapter one, we are introduced to the gorgeous, though physically scarred Jock. Melody’s thoughts of him are written down in a diary like manner where she expresses great feelings of wonder and tenderness for her new flipper friend. There are many beautiful images here that express both delight and sorrow.
Her journey is a complex one and all lessons she learns from Jock and the other dolphins inspire and free her. But it takes time and we are led back into the past where pain and suffering abound. The beloved books of C. S Lewis’s Narnia Chronicles are mentioned and we discover how they comforted and sparked her creative mind. As she said, ‘Although life did not hold much joy, I found happiness in my imagination.’
She had an interest in English Lit and journalism and made a decision to go back to school and complete year twelve, then university. This is the path that led her to healing as it was during her psychology studies she met Mike, her lecturer. He studied dolphins, their behaviour and how people could learn from them. Melody was keen to enter that world as his assistant and when she did, she developed a unique connection with dolphins—particularly Jock and also Millie who inspired her. Through these two and watching others, she developed courage and resilience in the face of adversity—and how to keep moving forward when bad things happened to her.
I learned a great deal about dolphin behaviour from reading The Dolphin Who Saved Me and was amazed by their intelligence and ability to help humans—even though humans have often caused them harm. Their unique communication skills with each other, and with those outside their realm, are amazing.
I got to know Melody through her second book Sheltered when Ultimo Press offered me a review copy. I was quite taken with the rescued animal stories and could see what a caring soul she is and how much she loves, protects and respects them. When she offered me a copy of The Dolphin Who Saved Me, I was more than keen to read her story but nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to encounter. The pain and trauma she experienced growing up, the losses and setbacks, the fear and isolation, the abuse and rejection— were far bigger than any human could imagine or endure. But endure she has and learned from her past to help those who are hurting, broken, lost and abandoned. And that includes animals.
Looking at the stark reality of Melody’s beginnings, the joy she experienced later when she met Jock is an unexpected by-product for it is in sharp contrast to the life she underwent. He was the beautiful soul who inspired, uplifted and led her to light and optimism. And this book is a tribute to him for so many reasons. Just as the message in her second book, Sheltered, is about animals that have been rescued, it is also about how they have rescued their rescuers! We may save them from the cruelty found sometimes in this world, but their presence in our lives can also lead us to healing, hope and wholeness. Their unconditional love, devotion and pure demonstrations teach us lessons we might never have learned otherwise. And for Melody, dolphins were her teachers, particularly Jock who became her hero.
I really cannot express enough the power and importance of Melody’s story with its raw, genuine honesty. It takes great courage to share what she has experienced and I am so happy she overcame the odds. I could easily imagine Aslan, Narnia’s lion or Jock, the dolphin, nudging her back on the path with their noses when things became too difficult. And thankfully she felt their messages of encouragement and never gave up, when she had every reason to. This has also made her victories even more special amid the trials she endured. The result is her well-deserved joy. A joy that shines so brightly it crushes the disappointments, despair and cruelty that came beforehand.
Melody has blossomed into an incredibly accomplished person and made a huge difference in both humans’ and animals’ lives. And even though she wears a mosaic of scars on her heart, mind and soul, they are part of who she is, but they do not define her. They have been woven into a beautiful tapestry of experience with their various shades and colours and now they exhibit her love, kindness and strength. I admire this woman who is a true champion in every way. She has every reason to celebrate her hard earned accomplishments that have been forged in fire. They will stand the test of time. This is, without doubt, the most profound unforgettable memoir I have ever read. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Melody for a copy of her book for review.
August 10, 2022
An exceptional read. Incredibly brave, courageous story of a young girls traumatic life and then the heart warming journey that she had after meeting Jock the dolphin. The story of the Port River dolphins is a fascinating story in itself but the way Melody has entwined the two and come out so strong and driven on the other side makes it a read you cant put down.
Highly recommended read
Highly recommended read
September 26, 2022
So I just finished this book. It's not a book I would have chosen to read usually as I have plenty of other books to get through. I only read it because I had met Melody many years ago when we worked at the same car dealership, so I borrowed it from the library to know a bit more about Mel's work with the dolphins on the Port River where I've been kayaking with my father in law. When I hadn't finished reading the book after the two week loan period I knew I just had to read the rest so I went and bought it. A person at my church promised to read it also. I was horrified to read about the heart breaking childhood family experiences Melody endured, which were hard to reconcile with the adult Melody I had known who'd always seemed to have a strong and calm presence whenever she was in the room. The thing which was so heart warming is that Melody was given a wonderful gift of friendship by Jock and the other dolphins, and she's paid it back in many ways through her determination and hard work to raise their profile and champion their cause. Not many folk get to change the lives of animals and people in such a great way during their lifetime as Melody has done and her story is a great inspiration to anyone who doubts that one person can make a difference.
June 7, 2022
A truly inspirational story - those who had abusive or violent trauma in their life can only be inspired with what Melody has achieved in both career and life, but very importantly her enormous & selfless contribution to the well being of dolphins. Detective Inspector Peter Dunstone.
July 22, 2022
One of the best books I have read.
What an incredible memoir of courage, determination and love for our friends the Port River Dolphins.
I shed many tears and was grateful I had a full box of tissues next to me.
This book will be a best seller in many countries.
What an incredible memoir of courage, determination and love for our friends the Port River Dolphins.
I shed many tears and was grateful I had a full box of tissues next to me.
This book will be a best seller in many countries.
December 7, 2022
This is so much more than a story about dolphins; it surprised me. Melody Horrill’s connection to nature saved her just as much as she saved the dolphins.
February 12, 2024
Melody Horrill moved to Adelaide, Australia from England with her father, mother and brother Mark. Her father was seeking a new start to become a different man, but when arriving in Australia life continued as it always had with their father being a brutal, violent man, their mum being the recipient of his anger and the police being frequent visitors to their house. Melody lived in constant fear and had never known or understood unconditional love until her university lecturer invites her to assist in monitoring pods of river dolphins that lived in the waters of Port Adelaide. Here, Melody meets Jock, a solitary dolphin with a maimed fin, who lived apart from the other dolphins in the highly social pods. Despite being injured, Jock still was able to connect, trust and form relationships with the humans observing him.
This is a beautifully written memoir and Melody recounts how Jock’s gentle nature, playfulness and connection to humans helped her heal from her traumatic and violent childhood. Through their friendship Melody can compare the similarities between herself and Jock. Jock had also experienced trauma from a young age when as a baby he had become tangled in fishing line, which cut into his flesh and disfigured his dorsal fin as he grew. Melody could also find similarities when comparing her relationship with her mother and the fact that Jock was orphaned from a young age, with his mother suspected dead, which severely affected Jock’s social connection to the other river dolphins.
A Dolphin Called Jock highlights the emotional impact to the children who grow up in abusive and violent homes as well as the environmental issues that the dolphins endured with living in an area that was heavily industrial. It also highlights how far we have come from the late 80’s- 90’s with domestic violence laws and with making big business accountable with their industrial waste.
I really enjoyed this book, learning about the Port Adelaide River dolphins and also how Melody could compare her life challenges with the challenges that the river dolphins faced. At no stage did I feel that this was a poor me, I’m a victim of my own childhood story with the narration being very factual and it more being a this is my life, and this is how I’ve overcome my challenges.
I read this book now due to being booked on a dolphin sanctuary tour in Port Adelaide in a few weeks. It is great having some knowledge of the challenges these dolphins have faced and how this area became a sanctuary before embarking on this tour.
This is a beautifully written memoir and Melody recounts how Jock’s gentle nature, playfulness and connection to humans helped her heal from her traumatic and violent childhood. Through their friendship Melody can compare the similarities between herself and Jock. Jock had also experienced trauma from a young age when as a baby he had become tangled in fishing line, which cut into his flesh and disfigured his dorsal fin as he grew. Melody could also find similarities when comparing her relationship with her mother and the fact that Jock was orphaned from a young age, with his mother suspected dead, which severely affected Jock’s social connection to the other river dolphins.
A Dolphin Called Jock highlights the emotional impact to the children who grow up in abusive and violent homes as well as the environmental issues that the dolphins endured with living in an area that was heavily industrial. It also highlights how far we have come from the late 80’s- 90’s with domestic violence laws and with making big business accountable with their industrial waste.
I really enjoyed this book, learning about the Port Adelaide River dolphins and also how Melody could compare her life challenges with the challenges that the river dolphins faced. At no stage did I feel that this was a poor me, I’m a victim of my own childhood story with the narration being very factual and it more being a this is my life, and this is how I’ve overcome my challenges.
I read this book now due to being booked on a dolphin sanctuary tour in Port Adelaide in a few weeks. It is great having some knowledge of the challenges these dolphins have faced and how this area became a sanctuary before embarking on this tour.
November 4, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Anyone who has ever seen a dolphin cannot help but admire these beautiful and graceful creatures. The more we learn about them, the more amazing they are. Their intelligence is awe-inspiring and the honour of being able to develop a deep and personal relationship with a dolphin would be a dream of many an animal lover.
Jack, the dolphin in the title, is everything Melody could hope for and so much more. In spite of his many wounds caused either by omission or commission by humans, it did not destroy his ability to connect and form a relationship with Melody. He learned to trust and to love his human friend. Anything he may have gained from his interaction with humans is nothing compared to what he gave Melody..
Scarred and traumatized by her violent and negligent parents, Melody’s scar formed a protection against future hurt by not allowing anyone or anything to penetrate. Jack could easily have done the same. Jack taught Melody to forgive and to move on. He was a great teacher. Perhaps the saddest part of the inter-species connections though can be the danger that it brings to the dolphins. Sadly, there are still cruel and sadistic humans who care nothing for the well being of others. Do we, as humans, put them in jeopardy every time we create bonds that others might abuse. It is certainly the question that haunts me most after reading this story. They deserve better than this.
Still, the book was moving. Melody’s early life was tragic but each time she wrote about Jack, there was light. It was worth plodding through the dark to find it. Four purrs and two paws up.
Jack, the dolphin in the title, is everything Melody could hope for and so much more. In spite of his many wounds caused either by omission or commission by humans, it did not destroy his ability to connect and form a relationship with Melody. He learned to trust and to love his human friend. Anything he may have gained from his interaction with humans is nothing compared to what he gave Melody..
Scarred and traumatized by her violent and negligent parents, Melody’s scar formed a protection against future hurt by not allowing anyone or anything to penetrate. Jack could easily have done the same. Jack taught Melody to forgive and to move on. He was a great teacher. Perhaps the saddest part of the inter-species connections though can be the danger that it brings to the dolphins. Sadly, there are still cruel and sadistic humans who care nothing for the well being of others. Do we, as humans, put them in jeopardy every time we create bonds that others might abuse. It is certainly the question that haunts me most after reading this story. They deserve better than this.
Still, the book was moving. Melody’s early life was tragic but each time she wrote about Jack, there was light. It was worth plodding through the dark to find it. Four purrs and two paws up.
October 4, 2023
In a sense the two beings mirror each other in certain ways, which is probably something Melody instinctively and subconsciously recognises, but perhaps only realises the importance of as time passes. The damaged mammals echo pain in body and soul, and their closeness is an emotional and visual healing process. I think it’s equally important to take note that this is also a message about the way we treat not only the most vulnerable, but also living beings in general. The path they have both taken seems to be one of isolation, one as the outcast the other perhaps more as a coping mechanism.
It’s a beautiful and poignant journey and story. Whilst the reader can only assume what the response one side is I think the experience and response is evidence that the connection between Jock and Melody is a core memory, a connection one of them will ever forget. It has clearly left a positive mark in the life of the author, and one can only hope it has helped to heal previous trauma.
The other important element of this book is the discussion about how attitudes have changed when it comes to interacting with marine life and the way we should be supporting the conservation of species, the reintroduction or naturalisation of captive marine life. I think the world has taken a step in the right direction when it comes to the general public, but we have a long way to go. If this story leaves any kind of impact it should be the special relationship between human and dolphin, and the remarkable journey the two of them experienced together.
It’s a beautiful and poignant journey and story. Whilst the reader can only assume what the response one side is I think the experience and response is evidence that the connection between Jock and Melody is a core memory, a connection one of them will ever forget. It has clearly left a positive mark in the life of the author, and one can only hope it has helped to heal previous trauma.
The other important element of this book is the discussion about how attitudes have changed when it comes to interacting with marine life and the way we should be supporting the conservation of species, the reintroduction or naturalisation of captive marine life. I think the world has taken a step in the right direction when it comes to the general public, but we have a long way to go. If this story leaves any kind of impact it should be the special relationship between human and dolphin, and the remarkable journey the two of them experienced together.
June 2, 2023
Having just finished reading Melody's incredible, inspiring, courageous story, I cannot articulate adequately the impact it has had on me. I cried, I smiled, I felt so overwhelmingly sad and also heart warmed throughout. Melody is an extraordinarily remarkable human being, and I cannot thank her enough for sharing her story, for all of the work she does, her mission and her love of the precious dolphins. She is a true gift to the world and contrary to the horrific upbringing she endured at the hands of both her mother and her father, she has gone on to be healed by an amazing mammal Jock. I feel an overwhelming admiration for her and all that she is, all that she stands for, her work ethic and the courage that she has had throughout her life to keep going. Thank you, Melody, for sharing your story, you truly are making a difference in this world, and we are all lucky to have you, including the beautiful dolphins.
Anyone who has suffered any form of domestic abuse will find this book to be so incredibly inspiring and healing. Childhood loneliness and abuse can create an enormous amount of resentment in adulthood which can be very challenging to overcome.
Thank you again Melody for sharing your story and I know anyone who reads your book will feel exactly the same as I do 🤍
Anyone who has suffered any form of domestic abuse will find this book to be so incredibly inspiring and healing. Childhood loneliness and abuse can create an enormous amount of resentment in adulthood which can be very challenging to overcome.
Thank you again Melody for sharing your story and I know anyone who reads your book will feel exactly the same as I do 🤍
March 20, 2023
A simply magnificent memoir of one young woman’s search for peace in her life and the part the natural world played in that journey, particularly a pod of wild dolphins in the Port River, Adelaide, and one specially damaged dolphin Jock.
All power to you Melody for not only telling us about your courageous passage from a traumatic childhood and years of manipulative abuse to hopefully a happier future, but detailing your outstanding work in marine conservation and the all important part it plays in your amazing healing.
Fascinating insights into the inspirational life’s work of passionate, dedicated cetacean researcher Dr Mike Bossley AM and the outstanding efforts of wonderful conservationists, environmentalists and volunteers who care.
A poignant story of great hardship and suffering….. but a blueprint for hope.
A must read that is just so hard to put down!
Thankyou so much dear Melody….for everything!!!!!
Love and gratitude…from us and the dolphins.
Tony & Phyll Bartram, Kangaroo Island/Victor Harbor Dolphin Watch
All power to you Melody for not only telling us about your courageous passage from a traumatic childhood and years of manipulative abuse to hopefully a happier future, but detailing your outstanding work in marine conservation and the all important part it plays in your amazing healing.
Fascinating insights into the inspirational life’s work of passionate, dedicated cetacean researcher Dr Mike Bossley AM and the outstanding efforts of wonderful conservationists, environmentalists and volunteers who care.
A poignant story of great hardship and suffering….. but a blueprint for hope.
A must read that is just so hard to put down!
Thankyou so much dear Melody….for everything!!!!!
Love and gratitude…from us and the dolphins.
Tony & Phyll Bartram, Kangaroo Island/Victor Harbor Dolphin Watch
March 9, 2024
The Dolphin Who Saved Me, by Melody Horrill: a passionate, poignant and heartwarming memoir. Traumatized by childhood abuse, mainly at the hands of her violent father, Melody becomes adept at emotional hiding. When she volunteers to help her university professor with monitoring pods of river dolphins Melody encounters a whole new world. Jock's a solitary dolphin (which is unusual); perhaps, due to his maimed fin, or did he prematurely lose his mother? Melody doesn't know the answers, and neither does her professor. While Melody rapidly absorbs new insights of marine life, she becomes awed by the innate intelligence of Dolphins. While cautious not to put Jock's essential wildness in jeopardy, together they slowly form a mutual trust and a special bond; eventually, opening to a healing path. "The Dolphin Who Saved Me" is as brave as it is lovely! Gwendolyn Broadmore, author, Life Came to a Standstill.
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