Out of Shadows

Jason Wallace is related to Tolkein and a descendent of one of the first International English cricketers, and also of the world-renowned Victorian circus owner "Lord" George Sanger. He was born in Cheltenham in 1969 but moved to London after his parents split up. Aged 12 his life was turned upside down when his mother remarried and the family emigrated to Zimbabwe. It was this experience in a tough boarding school during the aftermath of the war for independence that forms the foundation of his incredible novel. And he did actually meet Robert Mugabe when he visited his school. Jason is currently a web designer, living in South West London. Writing is his hobby and this is his brilliant debut novel.

"A stunning debut novel without a false note. Accomplished and powerful, it changes the way you think." Costa Book Award "(Out of Shadows is) a provocative story, powerfully written. Some may find the themes difficult, the climax shocking, but Wallace has produced a first novel where all the heat and intensity of an African nation in flux burns on every page. He's a definitely a writer to watch in the future." -- Keith Gray The Scotsman 20100405 "An extraordinary coming-of-age novel ... a startlingly original debut ... Charting the change from childhood to adulthood against growing political discord gives the novel a sense of urgency, and the book's intensity, drama and pace leaves a lasting impact." -- Jake Hope Bookseller's choice, The Bookseller "A memorable, moving and disturbing coming-of-age story." -- Julia Eccleshare Lovereading4kids "Excellent. (Out of Shadows is) the latest lacerating addition to the boarding-school-as-living-hell genre...read on if you have the courage. The author attended a similar establishment at the age of 12, and gives every indication of knowing exactly what he is writing about." -- Nick Tucker Independent on Sunday 20100404