Tosh’s Island

Tosh lives on a farm, helping her dad pick hops and cycling everywhere with her best friend Millie. One day, Tosh goes to the beach, where she meets Louis. Together they imagine a mermaid’s island, and strike up a friendship based on this imaginary world. But after Tosh falls from a rope due to her sore hands, she has to acknowledge that the mysterious pains in her body are getting worse and worse. 

Diagnosed with Stills Disease, a painful arthritis of the joints, Tosh spends months in hospital, just as Millie is starting senior school and making new friends. Tosh feels that everyone is moving on without her. And when her lies to Louis are exposed, she is mortified and isolated. Can Tosh find her place in her new reality? 

This moving graphic novel is based on the author’s life, and was first serialised as a comic in The Phoenix magazine. At heart it’san uplifting story that explores family love (she is adopted) and the dynamics of friendships. This story offers insight into a young life changed by chronic pain, but also paints a picture of a common coming-of-age transition moment. Tosh’s friendship issues will be familiar to many, and the striking colour illustrations add depth to her story.