John F. Roe was born and brought up in rural Lincolnshire in the United Kingdom. He later read History at St John's College, Cambridge, and acquired a degree in English from London University. After graduating he taught and travelled in Europe and Africa and wherever there were mountains. At twenty-eight John married Ella Burley and began a more organised life altogether, as well as two children, Christopher and Madeleine. John taught in Rhodesia for several years and then came to teach in Australia. He loves to read, travel, grow flowers, coach soccer, and keep the company of his grandsons.
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'Rich with wit and humour and many references to the literature he loves - reminding us how powerful literature is in sharing experience and understanding … What is uplifting about this story is how Roe managed to keep love central to their life, and the care and companionship he provides for Ella is rewarded by happy moments of shared memories even at the end.' - Helen Eddy, ReadPlus
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'Roe's long career teaching English is evident in a masterful touch with the written word and quotes from literature and poetry … 5 stars' - Diana Carroll, Advertiser
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'A passionate account of a long and successful marriage blighted by illness: dementia, the demon of the title … Ella is presented as a remarkable and charming person but John the carer emerges from the pages as deeply wounded, humane and capable of great generosity.' - Australian