Only Birds Above

This is the story of Arthur Watkins, blacksmith, who leaves his beloved young wife Helen to serve with the 10th Light Horse Regiment in the Middle East in World War I. He returns without his horse, a man forever changed by what he has seen and suffered. Years later, Arthur’s children Ruth and Tom are still feeling the effects of the first war when Tom is sent by his father to work in Sumatra. Tom Watkins is there in 1942 when the Japanese invade and is taken prisoner. This is the story of two wars that divide and unite a father and son, and all the years that lie in between.

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK

‘Uniquely crafted tale of two world wars, seen through Jones’ tender horse trainer touch …’ Australian Women’s Weekly

‘Only Birds Above establishes Jones as one of Western Australia’s finest writers of literary-historical fiction.’ Writing WA

‘This novel perfectly and poignantly takes you into battle with men and horses at war, and captures the pain and beauty, along with the slivers of hope, carried by the mothers, wives, sons and daughters left behind.’ Jon Doust

‘Although deeply sad, this is a wonderful novel with a beautiful ending that reminded me to never give up hope.’ Good Reading Magazine

‘Only Birds Above is sublime …’ Amanda Curtin

‘Jones is a perceptive observer of the human-equine bond, and her prose is perhaps never more beautiful than when she describes these animals.’ Geraldton Guardian

‘Only Birds Above is a beautifully realised work of historical fiction.’ The Australian Baby Boomers Podcast

‘This is a story that should never be forgotten.’ Beauty and Lace