“First times” can be life-changing experiences. Marthe Jocelyn has selected fourteen unforgettable stories, written by several of the best authors in North America, which explore human nature and take the reader on a transforming journey. From innocent firsts, such as first blue jeans, first boyfriend, first job, first step into adulthood, to the more complex first disillusionment, first inappropriate love, first family breakup, first breach of trust, to the shocking first dead body and first night alone, the stories in First Times — in all their diversity — embrace and captivate with their power.
Contributors include Martha Slaughter, Curtis Parkinson, Susan Juby, Alan Cumyn, Susan Adach, Ted Staunton, Richard Scrimger, Gillian Chan, Bill Habeeb, Nancy Hartry, Bill Richardson, Tim Wynne-Jones, Marthe Jocelyn, and Sarah Ellis.
close this panelMarthe Jocelyn is an award-winning author and illustrator who worked for many years as a toy designer before turning her hand to writing. She has written six novels, including the critically acclaimed works of historical fiction, Mable Riley and Earthly Astonishments. Jocelyn has also written a nonfiction account of the Foundling Hospital in London, England, entitled, A Home for Foundlings. She has created eight picture books, one of which, Hannah’s Collections, was shortlisted for a Governor General’s Literary Award for Illustration. Jocelyn has also edited two collections of short stories. Marthe Jocelyn divides her time between New York and Stratford, Ontario.
From the Hardcover edition.
close this panelPraise for Mable Riley:
“… this novel is a delightful elixir of Little House on the Prairie and Anne of Avonlea….”
— School Library Journal
“… a funny and inspiring tale of a young girl finding her voice and the courage to make it heard.… This book … will be enjoyed by all who read it.”
— VOYA
Praise for Secrets:
“… unforgettable … Readers will enjoy these tales of life, love, and liberation.”
— School Library Journal
“Twelve gifted authors share their stories of secrets in Marthe Jocelyn’s new book. They tell powerful tales of secrets kept, and secrets told.… I am always thrilled to be able to recommend a superb collection of memorable short stories. We have too few. These are worthy of your attention and should be shared.”
— Brandon Sun
