By Veronica Ward
Join us in celebrating the voice of a new generation—one that is thoughtful, powerful, and just getting started.
The Murray Bridge Library will be hosting an inspiring book launch at 10 am on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Simon Goodridge is a thirteen-year-old local author, who has turned his own life experiences into a moving story about courage, self-belief, and hope.
(L) Simon Goodridge of Jervois – finding his voice. (R) Simon Goodfrige’s first book cover.
Simon, who lives in regional South Australia with his great-aunt Diane, great-uncle Colin, and younger half-brother Dominic, has spent the past three years drafting a book that began as a simple character sketch and evolved into a full-length novel. Diagnosed with autism (Level 2), Simon has always seen the world through a unique lens—and now, he is ready to share that vision with readers.
The novel follows the journey of Jay, a 12-year-old boy who dreams of singing but struggles with self-doubt and feeling “different.” As Jay finds his voice, builds relationships, and starts a family, the story explores deep themes of resilience and love—even as Jay’s child faces leukemia. The story, though fictional, is grounded in Simon’s subjective experiences and the challenges he has faced growing up.
“I didn’t mean to write a book,” Simon shares. “I just started writing about someone like me. But then the story kept growing.”
What began as a creative outlet for Simon at age nine blossomed into a powerful narrative about identity, family, and the strength found in life’s hardest moments. One of his favourite parts of the book is the Thompson family—a fictional family, who reflect, love, loyalty and the hope that can carry us through the darkest times.
“Even when everything feels like it’s falling apart,” Simon says, “they turn the page and start a new chapter. That’s what I want people to remember.”
Despite his challenges, including navigating life across two households and balancing relationships with half-siblings from both parents’ sides, Simon has remained grounded by the support of his guardians and brother. Their encouragement, along with Simon’s natural empathy and curiosity, helped shape a book that speaks honestly and directly from the heart.
The September launch will feature an author talk where Simon will share how the book came to life, how he used research and imagination to build his world, and what he hopes readers—young and old—will take away from it. Industry guests, educators, librarians, families, and the wider community are warmly invited to attend.
Simon Goodridge of Trinity College, Murray Bridge to celebrate his autism at his book launch on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
“Simon’s story is a reminder to all of us, that creativity knows no age,” said a library spokesperson. “His voice is authentic, brave, and incredibly moving.”
Simon hopes his readers will walk away with one simple truth: anything is possible when you believe in yourself.
*Simon Goodridge’s Author Talk, and book launch will be held at the Murray Bridge Library at 10 am on Wednesday, October 15, 2025