Book Summary: Proof By Jes Layton

One Page Summary- Proof by Jes Layton

Part LOW-FANTASY, part YA- all riveting reading- Proof is a uniquely Australian coming-of-age story, set in regional Victoria where the myth of the OTWAY PANTHER is actually very real. Inspired by Australian urban folklore and told through the eyes of a detached teenage boy; JARRAH REED, the novel broaches issues of identity, race, mental illness and grief. Jarrah provides an interesting perspective to explore these themes and issues, given his small-town upbringing, his homosexuality, and his experiences as a person born of Aboriginal descent.

Having withdrawn after his father’s affair led to his parents’ separation, Jarrah struggles to express any emotions at all. He distances himself from his friends and family and

Though the threat of the Otway panther plagues Jarrah his mission to prove its existence becomes an escape as challenges with his father, peers and teacher arise.

At the core of Proof is the idea of sonder- the knowledge that everyone is the main character in their own life; something that, after his inward withdrawal, Jarrah has forgotten. Alongside Jarrah’s challenges and search for the panther, glimpses into the complex lives of others in Forest and his school are revealed. Throughout the story both Jarrah and the reader are reminded of those around him who have their own conflicts and challenges, whether they are dealing with death, mental illness, defining themselves or fighting for their marriage.

It is through his empathy towards others and friendship with Ashley that Jarrah begins to deal with his complications at home and school, reconnecting with his father, family and friends. Still, his pursuit of the Otway panther and drive for proof of the beast is not without its own set of