“Propulsive and Engaging” are the choice words used to describe the spectacular debut novel, Daughters of the Fatherland, penned by Mackay local Jericho J Johnson. This gripping historical fiction story transports readers to World War II Europe, uncovering the harrowing yet often overlooked experiences of Romani families under Nazi rule.
Set against the brutal backdrop of the Romani Holocaust (porajmos), the novel follows Rosa, a young Gypsy girl, whose life is shattered when her family is arrested by Nazi authorities. Separated from her father and later torn away from her mother, Rosa is one of 60 Gypsy children conscripted to appear in a Nazi propaganda film directed by the infamous Leni Riefenstahl. Through Rosa’s eyes, readers witness the resilience of the human spirit amidst unimaginable suffering.
Mr Johnson's work is not only a powerful fictional narrative but rather a bridge to real historical events and figures. His vivid storytelling captures both the massacres of the time, and the flickers of hope that carried survivors forward.
The release of Daughters of the Fatherland is a proud moment for Mr Johnson, who grew up in Mackay and attended Mackay State High School. After serving 20 years in the Australian Defence Force, including as a Sergeant in the Army Psychology Corps, he pursued his passion for writing. His journey took him to the United States, where he studied novel writing at the New York Film Academy and volunteered at the Holocaust and Human Rights Centre. There, he interviewed Holocaust survivors whose stories inspired elements of his novel.
Returning to Australia, Mr Johnson earned a Bachelor of Creative Arts at the University of Queensland and honed his writing skills through programs like the Faber Academy in Sydney.
Now based in North Queensland, Mr Johnson lives with his golden Labrador, Archie, his loyal companion and assistant dog.
Daughters of the Fatherland is available in print, audio, and e-book formats through Interactive Publications (Glass House Books), Amazon, Audible, and other platforms.
Explore his intriguing debut novel and learn more about Mr Johnson at www.jerichojjohnson.com._
Caption: Mackay local Jericho J Johnson has released his debut novel Daughters of the Fatherland, a gripping historical fiction set in World War II, inspired by real-life survivor stories. Photos supplied
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
