Toni Jordan on the book she couldn’t have written while her mum was alive
News September 03, 2025

Toni Jordan on the book she couldn’t have written while her mum was alive

Bestselling author Toni Jordan’s latest novel is something of a departure for her, drawing as it does on her own childhood in 1970s Queensland.

**Toni Jordan on the Book She Couldn’t Have Written While Her Mum Was Alive**

Bestselling author Toni Jordan has unveiled her newest novel, a work that marks a significant shift in her writing style and subject matter. Unlike her previous books, this latest offering delves into deeply personal territory, drawing inspiration from her own experiences growing up in Queensland during the 1970s.

For Jordan, the journey to writing this particular story was a long and complex one, punctuated by reflection and a careful consideration of family dynamics. She admits that the book, which explores themes of childhood, family secrets, and the unique atmosphere of 1970s Australia, was simply impossible to write while her mother was still alive.

"There were just some stories that felt too close, too raw," Jordan explained in a recent interview. "While my mum was here, I felt a certain responsibility to protect her, to protect our family’s privacy. This book required a level of honesty and vulnerability that I wasn't able to access until now."

The novel promises a nostalgic trip back in time, vividly recreating the sights, sounds, and social landscape of 1970s Queensland. Readers can expect to encounter familiar touchstones of the era – from bell-bottom jeans and shag carpets to the iconic music and cultural trends that defined the decade.

However, the book is far from a simple exercise in nostalgia. Jordan’s work delves beneath the surface, exploring the complexities of family relationships and the secrets that often lie hidden beneath seemingly ordinary lives. It's a story about growing up, about finding your place in the world, and about the enduring power of memory.

While Jordan remains tight-lipped about specific plot details, she hints that the book draws on real-life events and experiences from her childhood, albeit filtered through the lens of fiction. She emphasizes that the characters and situations are not direct representations of her family, but rather composites inspired by her memories and observations.

The book is already generating significant buzz among readers and critics alike, with many praising Jordan’s courage in tackling such a personal subject matter. It promises to be a poignant and compelling read, offering a unique glimpse into the author’s past and a powerful exploration of universal themes that resonate with us all. The decision to finally tell this story is a testament to Jordan’s growth as a writer and her willingness to confront the complexities of her own history.
Category: Entertainment