Dragon Interview: “It’s All About Butty” by Jenny Gretton

Published on: 25 May, 2026
Updated on: 23 May, 2026

Jenny Gretton

By Isabelle Trubshaw

A name forms a significant part of a person’s identity — but does it determine who we become, or can we shape our own path regardless of it?

This question sits at the heart of Jenny Gretton’s novel It’s All About Butty, which follows the story of Arbuthnot (Butty) Braithwaite, a boy born in rural Yorkshire with a rather unfortunate name and a life seemingly mapped out before him.

Against all odds, Butty is determined to forge his own destiny and pursues a career in medicine, navigating a series of life-changing experiences, including an eye-opening medical elective in Uganda, that alter his perspective on the world and his role within it.

In just 200 pages, Jenny’s novel traces Butty’s life from childhood to adulthood, following his journey from innocence to hard-earned success.

Jenny’s novel offers an engaging read, striking an entertaining balance between humour and sincerity, while touching on thoughtful themes of identity and self-determination.

To hear more, listen to Isabelle Trubshaw’s interview with Jenny, as she discusses the inspiration behind Butty’s character, the themes of the novel, and why Butty’s story matters.

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