Two Doting Dads

Meet best friends Matty and Ash - as much as they love their kids, they're craving a break from parenting so they can enjoy a tasty beverage.

But whatever they do and wherever they go, the children are there, casting a shadow over them and ruining their plans.

With the seemingly never-ending demands of parenthood - whether it is potty training, toddler tantrums, or a troop of monkeys attacking a babysitter (well, of course!) - something always stands in the way of a good time. Put simply, Matty and Ash can't catch a break.

Finally, however, they get what they want... a night out without kids! But where would they rather be?

Inspired by their Two Doting Dads podcast, Matty J and Ash bring you anything but a straightforward "how to parent" guide in this silly, hilarious, and ultimately moving picture book. And beautifully illustrated by Dan Gray-Barnett, this wacky tale can be enjoyed by adults and kids alike.

About the Authors

Ash is a comedic content creator in his early thirties who grew up in Sydney. He has amassed a cult following on social media, from his hilarious videos that poke fun at his wife, April, and their everyday interactions. When he’s not being a doting dad, he can be found yelling at the TV at his favourite footy team, Manly Sea Eagles, or dropping in on other surfers at his local break in Warriewood.

Daniel Gray-Barnett is an illustrator and author from the Huon Valley, Tasmania. He likes to think of himself as someone who was put on this planet to tell a few stories before he turns into a grumpy old man.
He’s worked with clients including Disney, Kiehl’s, Sydney Opera House and The New York Times and his first picture book, Grandma Z, won a Children’s Book Council of Australia award for Best New Illustrator.
When he’s not in the studio, he can be found daydreaming in the garden with his husband, German pointers and chickens.

What do you get when you mix a terrible dancer, a content creator and a chronic farter – you guessed it, Matty J. Many moons ago, he was thrust into the world of reality TV as Australia’s most desired bachelor (a title he likes to remind people of at any opportunity), but now he’s married, has two kids, a few more reality TV shows under his belt and a plethora of terrible dad jokes at his disposal. When he’s not wrangling his girls, Marlie-Mae or Lola, or spending hours slaving over his next kids' book, Matty J spends his time dreaming of manicured lawns or walking his three-legged dog, Buster.