Hi! I’m Jake, the author half of the duo that makes up the ‘JJ’ moniker. The illustrator, James, is my father. I’ve been obsessed with storytelling for as long as I can remember, and we’ve collaborated professionally since I was four years old. Some of our earliest projects include cowboy movies set in outer space and a superhero comic about an elephant bitten by a radioactive human.
Fast forward a few decades, and I’ve had the opportunity to speak at festivals, libraries, bookstores, and schools across the province. I won the University of Waterloo's top undergraduate pitch competition after developing a system to provide children's books to underfunded Ontario classrooms, and hold a seat on the Canadian Society of Children's Authors (CANSCAIP) Board of Directors.
I relate to young readers because, at my core, I’m the same kid I’ve always been. I love telling stories more than anything in the world, and I'm still doing so alongside the most reliable illustrator in the business.
Made a HUGE impact on the kids today. A mom of a boy in my class emailed me and said his eyes lit up talking about JJ. I can't wait for the next book.
— Katherine Bacik, Teacher at Holy Family Catholic School
Quite simply the most sincere, engaging visitor I have met in my 35 years doing this.
— Donna Cossitt, Community Liaison at St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School
The kids were so thrilled to have author JJ McFaull visit us. The discussion was lively! We look forward to another visit soon.
— Lori Pierce, Children and Youth Coordinator at Meaford Public Library
It was such a pleasure having JJ McFaull spend time on our farm this fall. Parents and kids alike loved meeting him. He's welcome anytime.
— Matt, Manager at Andrews Scenic Farm
Where Pumpkins Go After Halloween is rollicking fun. I can't wait to see what's next.
— Larry Smith, viral TEDx Speaker and RandomHouse author.
So sincere! The kids can't wait for him to come back next year.
— Lisa Parish, Teacher at William Armstrong Public School
