The Wonderful Thing about Phoenix Rose
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  • Published: 18 April 2023
  • ISBN: 9781761046209
  • Imprint: Michael Joseph
  • Format: Trade Paperback
  • Pages: 352
  • RRP: $32.99

The Wonderful Thing about Phoenix Rose

Formats & editions
Tr. Paperback
18 Apr 2023
EBook
18 Apr 2023
Audiobook
18 Apr 2023
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The delightful new novel by the bestselling author of The Jam Queens.

Phoenix Rose, a 35-year-old neurodivergent teacher, is at a crossroads in her career and in her relationship with her boyfriend, Zack. But when she receives an urgent plea from a friend in Tasmania who needs to rehome her beloved animals, Phoenix, who has always led with her heart, spontaneously decides to help.

When she suddenly finds herself the custodian of an eccentric dog, two cats, a clutch of chickens and a geriatric pony, she makes another snap decision – to provide a new home for them all herself. The trouble is, she will have to drive the menagerie all the way back to Brisbane in time to return to Zack and her job – and she cannot do it alone.

She enlists the help of Lily – a colourful younger woman who is also neurodivergent – as well as resourceful members of their online community. Together the new friends must navigate unexpected twists, setbacks and moments of heartbreak and triumph as they both move towards a new identity and understanding of themselves.

The Wonderful Thing about Phoenix Rose is a joyful and moving tale of a woman’s commitment to fulfilling a friend’s dying wish, while finding her own inner strength and power and sharing it with others along the way.

'A beautifully written story that celebrates difference ...and about learning how to stand out in a world that demands you fit in.' Weekend Australian

'A joyful celebration of diversity, friendship and animal magnetism.' Kathy Lette
  • Published: 18 April 2023
  • ISBN: 9781761046209
  • Imprint: Michael Joseph
  • Format: Trade Paperback
  • Pages: 352
  • RRP: $32.99
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About the author

Josephine Moon

Josephine Moon was born and raised in Brisbane, and had a false start in Environmental Science before completing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and then a postgraduate degree in education. Twelve years and ten manuscripts later, her first novel The Tea Chest was picked up for publication and then shortlisted for an ABIA award. Her bestselling contemporary fiction is published internationally. Her books include The Tea Chest, The Chocolate Promise, The Beekeeper’s Secret, Three Gold Coins, The Gift of Life, The Cake Maker's Wish and The Jam Queens.

She now lives on acreage in the beautiful Noosa hinterland with her husband and son, and a tribe of animals that seems to increase in size each year. She wouldn't have it any other way.

portrait photo of Josephine Moon

Also by Josephine Moon

The Cake Maker’s Wish
The Jam Queens
The Gift of Life
See all

Praise for The Wonderful Thing about Phoenix Rose

A joyful celebration of diversity, friendship and animal magnetism. Enjoy this wild and wonderful ride in which Phoenix proves that 'normal' is nothing more than a setting on a washing machine.

Kathy Lette

Truly a story like no other. It centres around an incredible animal-based road trip, and delves into so many beautiful, funny, heartfelt themes – late autism diagnosis, burnout, online community, self-advocacy, friendship, and carving out a life that works for you.

Kay Kerr, author of Love and Autism

I could go on all day about the many moments in this novel that moved and inspired me . . . The Wonderful Thing About Phoenix Rose is a vital conversation starter, and a great book club pick.

Better Reading

A beautifully written story that celebrates difference . . . about learning how to stand out in a world that demands you fit in.

Weekend Australian

Josephine is proving to be the go-to voice for warm, funny and vibrant stories, and this novel . . . is an escapist's dream!

Woman's Day

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Delightful cupcakes that taste like sunshine and holidays. The exact recipe for cupcakes from Josephine Moon’s book, ‘The Wonderful Thing about Phoenix Rose’, they are the perfect snack to bake while you read.