Getting Dusty is the much-anticipated sequel to Jared Thomas’ CBCA longlisted junior fiction, Uncle Xbox (2023). When Dusty bloodies his bully’s nose in a soccer tournament, he finds himself grounded for a week. Feeling this is unfair, Dusty gets upset and it’s up to Uncle Xbox to help him understand why his actions have consequences and that he can learn from his mistakes. If this lesson includes spending time on Country, catching some nice waves and making new friends, well, who is he to argue. From the author of The Game Day series, My Spare Heart, Calypso Summer, and Songs that sound like Blood, Jared Thomas has sensitively captured Dusty’s world and childhood challenges, with integrity, humour and heart.
Jared Thomas was born in Port Augusta in 1976. Both his parents have Aboriginal heritage, and he identifies as Nukunu due to being raised on Nukunu land and with Nukunu culture. He has published many books and his writing explores the power of belonging and culture. In 2015 his novel Calypso Summer joined the 2015 International Youth Library White Raven list of books that deserve worldwide attention because of their universal themes and exceptional artistic and literary style. His recent releases include Songs That Sound Like Blood and the Game Day series written with NBA player Patty Mills.
A fab book for mid to upper primary reluctant readers who love their aport; a short novel featuring soccer, surfing, fishing and some good life lessons. Can’t wait to share this with students.