Book Launch with Holden Sheppard

Joondalup Libraries and Dymocks Joondalup are excited to host the launch of Holden Sheppard’s brand new book, King of Dirt. Hot on the heels of his success with the Invisible Boys TV adaptation, Holden will be in conversation with journalist Matt Tinney for a lively and insightful discussion.

Holden Sheppard is a West Australian author whose debut novel Invisible Boys won multiple awards, including the 2019 WA Premier’s Prize for an Emerging Writer. Invisible Boys was adapted as a ten-episode television series with Stan Australia which premiered in 2025. Holden’s second book The Brink won several accolades including the 2024 Ena Noel Award. His new 2025 release King of Dirt is his third novel, and his first book for adults. Holden’s writing has been widely published in books, journals and the media. A country boy from Geraldton, Holden now lives in Perth’s far north with his husband and his V8 ute.

Matt Tinney is a familiar face on Channel 7's Sunrise. The father-of-two has been the Perth Correspondent for Australia's #1 breakfast show for more than 10 years. Matt is multi-talented, juggling the roles of news presenter, journalist and producer. The 41-year-old began his career at WIN Television in New South Wales after completing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Italian at the University of Melbourne. Outside of news, Matt plays piano, enjoys keeping fit and is a keen photographer.

King of Dirt

A gritty and heartfelt gay coming-of-age story from the author of the bestselling Invisible Boys.

Giacomo Brolo, aka Jack, is a mess. He works piecemeal construction gigs in remote WA, drinks himself to oblivion and is estranged from his family and friends. 

But then Jack returns to his regional hometown of Geraldton for a family wedding. He hasn't been back since he fled at the age of eighteen, and his past soon catches up with him.

Turns out Jack's deeply conservative Italian family would prefer he remained in the closet. Then he finds out he may have conceived a son with his teenage girlfriend, and now Jack needs to convince her and her new husband that he's fit to be a father figure. And whatever happened to Xavier, the former schoolmate who Jack was in love with and whose rejection spurred him to leave Geraldton in the first place?

Is Jack doomed to live a dead-end life – or can he open himself up to the possibility of love, found family and connection?

Cost $8.00. Book and pay online

Dymocks Joondalup will be selling Holden's book on the night, and Holden will be available for book signing.

For further information on this event please call the City on 9400 4751.

Please note, the presentation will run for approximately one hour, and refreshments are included.

Cancellations and Refunds:

A program will only be cancelled if there are insufficient enrolments received one day prior to the event or due to factors beyond the City’s control. No individual refunds or credits will be given for general non-attendance.

Parking: Please be aware that there is limited free parking at Joondalup Library. Details of parking locations and fees can be found at the City’s Parking webpage