Buy 3+ Books to get FREE Aus shipping
Buy 3+ Books for FREE Delivery Within Australia
Buy 3+ Books for FREE Delivery Within Australia
Genre: Narrative Non-Fiction / Biography
The world is a dangerous place for a child when no one's watching.
In post–World War II Scotland, a seven-year-old boy should be walking to school. Instead, he’s shipped off to Australia.
Trapped in a world of anger and violence with nowhere to turn, young Johno clings to the hope that a policeman might help him. But life has other plans.
Decades later, after years of denial by governments and cover-ups by institutions, Johno begins to uncover the truth about his past – and the web of lies that shaped his childhood.
A journey marked by cruelty and kindness, love and war, and above all, the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Johno will be released 9 September 2026. Pre-order now to receive your copy at least two weeks before the release date.
Trade orders please contact us here.
Genre: Narrative Non-Fiction / Biography
The world is a dangerous place for a child when no one's watching.
In post–World War II Scotland, a seven-year-old boy should be walking to school. Instead, he’s shipped off to Australia.
Trapped in a world of anger and violence with nowhere to turn, young Johno clings to the hope that a policeman might help him. But life has other plans.
Decades later, after years of denial by governments and cover-ups by institutions, Johno begins to uncover the truth about his past – and the web of lies that shaped his childhood.
A journey marked by cruelty and kindness, despair and love – and above all, the enduring.
Genre: Narrative Non-Fiction / Biography
The world is a dangerous place for a child when no one's watching.
In post–World War II Scotland, a seven-year-old boy should be walking to school. Instead, he’s shipped off to Australia.
Trapped in a world of anger and violence with nowhere to turn, young Johno clings to the hope that a policeman might help him. But life has other plans.
Decades later, after years of denial by governments and cover-ups by institutions, Johno begins to uncover the truth about his past – and the web of lies that shaped his childhood.
A journey marked by cruelty and kindness, despair and love – and above all, the enduring.
Like to learn more about Kathleen O’Reilly Johnston? Visit her Hawkeye author page here.
Like to learn more about Kathleen O’Reilly Johnston? Visit her Hawkeye author page here.
'This book pulls back the curtain on a world that should never have been hidden. Johno reveals the extraordinary grit of those forced to endure darkness. An engrossing, deeply moving read that lingers long after the final page.' Troy Henderson, author of Head Grenade and winner of The Australian 2025 fiction prize for River City
‘An engaging, moving, and profound account of human resilience, beautifully and sensitively told. Johno is an inspirational story of an abuse survivor who battles for answers and resolution, both for himself and others. For such an emotive subject, the narrative is precise, careful and grounded in research, creating authenticity and impact.’ Greg Bourke, author of Under Silkwood.
‘Moving, compassionate and resonant, Johno is vividly told, an important story brimming with truth and razor-sharp insight. A celebration of human endurance. Impossible to put down.’ Gillian Wills, author of Big Music.
‘A raw, honest recounting of a life encompassing a chapter of Australian history still haunting our society today. My heart ached for the confused young boy, desperate for any kindness. I cried for the man he became, as he came to understand what had happened to him. Johno is a story of courage and resilience. A desperately important read for any Australian.’ Nicole Kelly, author of Lament & Shifters
‘Reading this human story, written with such vulnerable honesty, changes a person. The reader is impressed with the extreme hypocrisy that ego is capable of when religion is called on to justify horrific abuse of children. When convicted, these same then endeavour to deprive victims of recompense. Equally impressive is the human spirit which asserts itself positively in the face of a child’s deep conditioning in fear. Johno tells his story simply and directly. He eventually comes to terms with much of his nightmarish past, with the heart-felt encouragement of some excellent friends. Those he was able to form bonds with mirror his loyalty. The main thought I left these pages with is that Life gives up on no-one.’ Carla van Raay, author of God’s Callgirl
‘Johno stands in a class of its own! A must read for all who live in the lucky country.’ Sally Craddock M.A. Cantab, reviewer
‘Johno is a page turner! Kathleen O’Reilly Johnston’s writing packs an emotional punch. I’m confident this debut book will heal many hearts.’ Caoilfhionn Heaslip, creator of Wheatbelt’s Got Talent
‘Reminiscent of A Fortunate Life, but more! Kathleen writes with insight, and illustrates with depth how childhood experiences can impact adult life. Johno is up there with my best reads this year!’ Susan Morgan, reviewer
‘Far more than a biographical fiction novel, Johno is a multi-genre odyssey, following Norman Johnston as he is torn from an orphanage in Scotland, thrown on a boat, and shipped to the Land Down Under. Expect bildungsroman, war, romance, psychological and metaphysical themes, along with fast-paced, gripping prose filled with wisdom, adventure, and the triumph of the human spirit.’ Hayden Perno, author of Ralph Ridley in The Hunt for Time
'This book pulls back the curtain on a world that should never have been hidden. Johno reveals the extraordinary grit of those forced to endure darkness. An engrossing, deeply moving read that lingers long after the final page.' Troy Henderson, author of Head Grenade and winner of The Australian 2025 fiction prize for River City
‘An engaging, moving, and profound account of human resilience, beautifully and sensitively told. Johno is an inspirational story of an abuse survivor who battles for answers and resolution, both for himself and others. For such an emotive subject, the narrative is precise, careful and grounded in research, creating authenticity and impact.’ Greg Bourke, author of Under Silkwood.
‘Moving, compassionate and resonant, Johno is vividly told, an important story brimming with truth and razor-sharp insight. A celebration of human endurance. Impossible to put down.’ Gillian Wills, author of Big Music.
‘A raw, honest recounting of a life encompassing a chapter of Australian history still haunting our society today. My heart ached for the confused young boy, desperate for any kindness. I cried for the man he became, as he came to understand what had happened to him. Johno is a story of courage and resilience. A desperately important read for any Australian.’ Nicole Kelly, author of Lament & Shifters
‘Reading this human story, written with such vulnerable honesty, changes a person. The reader is impressed with the extreme hypocrisy that ego is capable of when religion is called on to justify horrific abuse of children. When convicted, these same then endeavour to deprive victims of recompense. Equally impressive is the human spirit which asserts itself positively in the face of a child’s deep conditioning in fear. Johno tells his story simply and directly. He eventually comes to terms with much of his nightmarish past, with the heart-felt encouragement of some excellent friends. Those he was able to form bonds with mirror his loyalty. The main thought I left these pages with is that Life gives up on no-one.’ Carla van Raay, author of God’s Callgirl
‘Johno stands in a class of its own! A must read for all who live in the lucky country.’ Sally Craddock M.A. Cantab, reviewer
‘Johno is a page turner! Kathleen O’Reilly Johnston’s writing packs an emotional punch. I’m confident this debut book will heal many hearts.’ Caoilfhionn Heaslip, creator of Wheatbelt’s Got Talent
‘Reminiscent of A Fortunate Life, but more! Kathleen writes with insight, and illustrates with depth how childhood experiences can impact adult life. Johno is up there with my best reads this year!’ Susan Morgan, reviewer
‘Far more than a biographical fiction novel, Johno is a multi-genre odyssey, following Norman Johnston as he is torn from an orphanage in Scotland, thrown on a boat, and shipped to the Land Down Under. Expect bildungsroman, war, romance, psychological and metaphysical themes, along with fast-paced, gripping prose filled with wisdom, adventure, and the triumph of the human spirit.’ Hayden Perno, author of Ralph Ridley in The Hunt for Time
For more great Johno reviews, visit Goodreads.
For more great Johno reviews, visit Goodreads.
Hawkeye Publishing Returns and Order Cancellation Policy
At Hawkeye Publishing, we strive to provide our customers with a seamless and satisfying shopping experience. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase or need to cancel your order, we are here to help.
Damaged Items
In the rare case that your item arrives damaged, please contact us immediately with a description of the issue and a photo of the damaged item. We will work with you to resolve the problem promptly.
Order Cancellation
If you need to cancel an order, please contact us as soon as possible. Once your order is processed and shipped, it cannot be cancelled.
Return Shipping
You will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs when returning your item. Shipping costs will be reimbursed in the case of damaged items.
Contact Us
If you have any questions on how to return your item or cancel an order, please contact us.
Hawkeye Publishing Returns and Order Cancellation Policy
At Hawkeye Publishing, we strive to provide our customers with a seamless and satisfying shopping experience. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase or need to cancel your order, we are here to help.
Damaged Items
In the rare case that your item arrives damaged, please contact us immediately with a description of the issue and a photo of the damaged item. We will work with you to resolve the problem promptly.
Order Cancellation
If you need to cancel an order, please contact us as soon as possible. Once your order is processed and shipped, it cannot be cancelled.
Return Shipping
You will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs when returning your item. Shipping costs will be reimbursed in the case of damaged items.
Contact Us
If you have any questions on how to return your item or cancel an order, please contact us.
9781923105911
9781923105911
"
This rug is such good quality and makes me so happy every time I look at it. I'm using this one for a top cover over my bedspread. It's a perfect match for my room and linen. I have another that I use as a throw for the lounge and a picnic rug! In LOVE.
- Barbara W.
"
The postage was incredibly quick and the quality and colours far exceeded what I thought. The pics don't do them justice. Truly unique rugs that I doubt will date anytime soon. I would recommend - beautiful rug and great customer service.
- Tanya E.
"
My husband argued with me saying we didn’t need a new blanket. Once we received this one, he quickly changed his tune. It’s cozy, soft and warm. I love the design and boho vibe it adds to our home. High quality product at an affordable price.
- Bebe H.