Being Different is Brilliant: Kane L Jones on Evan’s Extraordinary Friends

In Evan’s Extraordinary Friends, debut author Kane L Jones brings together a joyful celebration of friendship, individuality, and imagination. With a bright and inclusive spirit, this uplifting children’s book follows Evan – a young boy with Down syndrome – and his three incredible friends: Dexter, Molly, and Penny. Each of them has their own unique way of navigating the world, and together they show us that our differences are what make us extraordinary.

From beach adventures and sleepovers to superhero missions and Halloween fun, this charming book is packed with laughter, teamwork, and positive messages for young readers.

We caught up with Kane to learn more about the inspiration behind the gang, what he hopes children will take away from the story, and what’s next for this imaginative and heart-filled writer.

What first inspired the story of Evan’s Extraordinary Friends and its inclusive group of characters?

My little brother Evan is what inspired the book; the main character is based on him, and like the character, he has Down syndrome, but for him and kids like him, I wanted to raise awareness among young readers about special needs and disabilities.

Evan and each of his friends have different abilities and personalities. How did you come up with the traits for Dex, Molly, and Penny?

Evan’s life has been filled with amazing people with those kinds of traits, and they were just very carefully thought about so I could try to show positivity with each disability and personality. In each story I wrote, there are many, many differences some children face, but unfortunately I couldn’t include them all, but I tried to do justice with these characters and portray them in a positive yet respectful manner. 

The story is filled with action-packed fun – treasure hunts, sleepovers, superhero adventures and more! Did you draw on any childhood memories to create these scenes?

I suppose the Halloween story is inspired hugely by the fact Evan loves to dress up and also to dance, act and perform, or anything theatre-related really. The rest were just each written to tell a certain story that I could dedicate to each character’s personality and the benefits that come with it. 

Why was it important to you to show characters with visible and invisible differences working together and supporting one another?

It’s simple really; firstly, not all disabilities or needs are noticeable sometimes, and everyone should always bear that in mind, but the idea is that all kids should mix and support each other in all aspects and environments in life. A child with needs or disabilities can still mix with kids without, and they should never feel otherwise. 

When you’re not writing, what brings you joy or helps you stay creative - any hobbies, favourite places, or unexpected talents we should know about?

Just being with my family, doing whatever my girls want to do or enjoy, and spending time with them and my wife. A good walk with the girls can help massively with being creative for me. 

The Halloween chapter is particularly creative, with each character embracing a costume that reflects their personality. Do you have a favourite costume from the book?

I think it’s got to be Dexter’s for me.

What do you hope young readers – especially those who may relate to Evan or his friends – will take away from this story?

That it’s not just ok to be different but an absolute blessing; in whatever way you’re different, just embrace it and find the positives. Help anybody else to be educated at an early age and therefore simply be used to it all, so nobody feels the need to stare or judge. And hopefully make all kids feel a lot more comfortable and accepted straight away. 

The book ends with a beautiful message about being different. What advice would you give to children who feel like they don’t quite fit in?

Just remember it’s ok to not fit in; you’re supposed to stand out and be different. That’s what makes you unique. Being the same as everyone else would be boring.

What was it like working with the illustrator Dan Harris to bring your vision to life?

Dan was incredibly helpful; he was open to changes and important details, which was a big deal for me to get each character portrayed the right way.

How can readers connect with you or follow your journey as an author?

You can follow me on Instagram for now until I make further social media accounts; my wife will also post updates to TikTok and her other socials. Also I imagine the publishers will be posting as well regarding the book, so give these guys a follow for updates too.