“Strong people stand up for themselves. But the strongest stand up for others.” – Plato
I Am Jack was born from a deeply personal experience—when my son was bullied at school. He’s a great kid, like all kids (except when they’re driving you crazy, of course!). Watching him go through it was tough, but even tougher was finding a way to help him get through it.
After Jack overcame school bullying—a challenge that took real courage—I asked him if I could write I Am Jack. His response was simple but powerful:
“Write it, Mum. For other kids who get bullied, for kids who bully, for parents, teachers—everyone. So it doesn’t happen.”
Since then, I Am Jack has reached hundreds of thousands of kids across Australia and beyond. It’s been published in the USA, Turkey, Slovenia, and more, even translated into Braille so that every child can read Jack’s story and know they’re not alone.
The book has been embraced by leading anti-bullying organisations, including Room to Read, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, Life Education Australia, PACER, and many more. Its message continues to spread, helping young people, parents, and educators stand up, speak out, and create safer, kinder communities.
Super Jack – A Heartfelt and Humorous Look at Changing Families and Growing Up
Jack’s world is changing, and he has a lot to figure out. His mum has Rob now, and Jack isn’t sure if Rob is just there for her—or if he could be a real dad to him too. Then there’s Rob’s son, Leo. Jack’s sister gets along with him just fine, but Jack? Not so much. And what about his own dad, the one who never sees him?
In the middle of it all, there’s Nanna. She’s getting older, and sometimes that makes Jack frustrated. But he also loves her fiercely and wants to help her. Families are messy, complicated, and full of emotions, but Jack is learning that love, patience, and understanding can go a long way.
With his signature humour and honesty, Jack takes readers on a journey through the ups and downs of family life—blended families, step-parenting, sibling rivalries, and the joys and challenges of caring for an aging grandparent.
Why Read Super Jack?
Super Jack is a book that helps kids—and parents—navigate the complexities of family with warmth, humour, and heart.
Susanne Gervay is an award-winning Australian author, known for writing powerful, relatable stories that help young readers navigate real-life challenges. A passionate advocate for children’s literature, social justice, and youth empowerment, she has worked extensively in anti-bullying programs, literacy initiatives, and educational outreach.
Her I Am Jack series has become a cornerstone of anti-bullying education, embraced by schools, families, and young readers worldwide. With its authentic voice, humour, and heart, the series has helped children understand resilience, friendship, and standing up for themselves. The success of I Am Jack led to a highly acclaimed stage adaptation by Monkey Baa Theatre, which has toured internationally, sparking important conversations about bullying and self-worth.
I Am Jack is where Jack’s story begins—an ordinary boy facing extraordinary challenges. When teasing at school escalates into bullying, Jack tries to ignore it, but as it worsens, he feels isolated and powerless. Through his strong-willed family, loyal friends, and the courage to speak up, Jack learns that he is not alone. His journey is one of strength, self-discovery, and hope, showing young readers that they too can overcome bullying with support and resilience.
Susanne’s books continue to empower children to navigate life’s challenges with courage, humour, and heart, making a lasting impact on young readers everywhere.
“I Am Jack” is children’s literature at its most effective—funny, loving, and moving. It beautifully explores how bullying impacts a child’s self-esteem, offering hope and resilience. A must-read for kids because every child is unique and deserves to be celebrated.
The stage adaptation of “I Am Jack” was a game-changer for our remote communities, engaging over 400 young people, many Indigenous. The performances sparked conversations about bullying, proving the power of theatre to create social change. One teacher, with tears in his eyes, told us, “I was Jack.”
“I Am Jack” is a gripping, honest take on bullying, balancing tension, drama, and humor. Jack’s voice is authentic, his journey relatable, and his resilience inspiring. Susanne Gervay’s storytelling is both powerful and deeply human—this book should be in every school.
