Sometimes even the best intentions can lead you down a very dangerous road.

A captivating novel full of strength, quiet courage and the struggle to overcome silence.

Sam is a young boy recovering from an operation that has left him unable to speak ever again. He lives with his mother and sister Katie, all dutifully cared for by Aunt Dettie, their father's sister, who believes herself sympathetic to his pain.

Their father abandoned the family some time ago, but when their mother begins to date again, Aunt Dettie reacts very badly.

After an unexpected phone call, Aunt Dettie packs Sam and Katie into the backseat of her car and tells them that she's taking them to Perth to be reunited with their father.

As Dettie drives the children across Australia in the middle of a sweltering and dangerous bushfire season, her behaviour becomes increasingly erratic, and the children begin to realise that there is something very wrong.

Voiceless, Sam can only watch helplessly as the family trip becomes a smoke-filled nightmare.

Praise for Sign:

‘A captivating debut novel’ –The Sun-Herald/The Sunday Age

‘An original, cracking read that bodes well for Dray’s future novels’ – The Saturday Paper

‘Sign slowly cranks up the tension and what began as a familial kitchen-sink drama develops into a thriller’ – The Weekend Australian

‘I fully expect Sign by Colin Dray to be made into a quintessential Australian road trip movie. I’m thinking of Toni Collette as the well-meaning but disturbed Aunt Dettie … an incredible, beautifully written debut.’ – Seeing the Lighter Side Book Blog