JT chapter sampler

threat and Mum was the reality. Mum would use Dad as a warning. ‘Do you want me to get your father?’ she would ask. Duh. The slipper only came out when I went too far. We don’t smack kids these days, but back then it was part of raising a child. So don’t go calling child services, but, by all means, if you need some advice on slippers, give her a buzz. Now let’s get into my childhood: a tale of soft drinks, Space Invaders and, of course, Steeden footballs. ‘Hey, Johnny, you want to be our ball boy?’ Dad asked. I looked at him and shook my head. ‘Nup,’ I said. ‘I’m good.’ Why on earth would I want to spend my afternoon chasing footballs when I could be playing in the mud with my mates? ‘I’ll pay you a dollar,’ he said. ‘All you have to do is kick the football back.’ Now he had my attention. How many cans of Fanta could I buy for a buck? Maybe 10. Red frogs? Like 100.

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