All My Friends Are Invisible

More about the book

A mesmeric and uplifting childhood memoir that sparks vital conversations about identity and mental health. In 2016, while at Gatwick Airport, Jonathan experiences a familiar out-of-body sensation, transporting him back to the safe place he created as a boy. Growing up in conservative 1980s Dublin, Jonathan was a different child—creative, expressive, and internally identifying as a girl. The lack of understanding from those around him led to years of bullying and abuse, forcing him to retreat into himself. His only refuge was an inner world filled with loving, imaginary friends, who became his lifeline. At the airport, these friends returned, reminding him of their enduring presence. This extraordinary memoir is not just thought-provoking but also offers hope to those who feel 'other,' highlighting the importance of safe spaces for children to be themselves. Jonathan Joly, a successful social media content creator, reveals the secret he kept hidden for years, sharing the beautiful world he retreated to during unbearable times. He introduces readers to his invisible friends, inviting them to remember their own childhood companions who may have saved them too. Ultimately, Jonathan’s journey illustrates the resilience required to create a personal sanctuary in a world that often feels unwelcoming.