It Began With A Whisper

Coming November 8th, 2025

Written by Michael A. Matteo, our new YA Dystopian asks a big question:

What are your thoughts worth to you?

Welcome to Thawtless: a peaceful society where everyone is equal and the residents are content to follow the only rule that matters:

Thinking is not allowed.

During a school lunch break, Idere hears a voice whispering in his own head. He couldn’t turn it off. Now he’s in danger of being banished from the only place he has ever known. Under a deceptive government of self-elected officials, Idere must find an answer to the new question plaguing him:

Is this what you want?

In this coming-of-age story, Idere must find a way to fit in, or make an unthinkable sacrifice.

Every reader of It Began With A Whisper unlocks free additional resources. These are linked to the Australian Curriculum, and align with Appointed Media’s values and mission. Each was created by high school teacher and author, Michael A. Matteo, and reviewed by a qualified Australian teacher.