The Upwelling

WINNER OF THE VICTORIAN PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS 2023 PRIZE FOR INDIGENOUS WRITING 'A deeply immersive young adult fantasy and an enthralling debut. It's a privilege to walk this new path into the oldest of stories' AMIE KAUFMAN, New York Times-bestselling author A CAPTIVATING YOUNG ADULT DEBUT FROM A BLACK&WRITE! WRITING FELLOWSHIP WINNER Three misfits. Two warring spirits. One chance to save the world. Kirra is the great-granddaughter of a truth dreamer, and, like Great Nanna Clara, no-one believes her night-visions are coming true. When an end-of-the-world nightmare forces her to surf where her brother was killed, she time-slips into a place that could ruin her life, here, and in the Dreaming. Narn is the son of a well-respected Elder and holds an enviable role in his saltwater clan. Though he bears the marks of a man, many treat him like an uninitiated boy, including the woman he wants to impress. Tarni is the daughter of a fierce hunter and the custodian of a clever gift. Somehow, she understands Kirra when no-one else can. But who sent this unexpected visitor: a powerful ancient healer or an evil shadow-spirit? When death threatens all life, can a short-sighted surfer, a laidback dolphin caller and a feisty language unweaver work together to salvage our future? 'A breath of fresh air for both the genre and Australian literature. Lystra Rose has expertly crafted a captivating and enchanting fantasy world filled with magic and heart, while reminding us of the rich cultures and histories that were taken during colonisation . . . a must-read for lovers of YA fantasy' Books+Publishing 'A fresh new novel combining Indigenous culture and fantasy adventure, in a way not seen before' ReadPlus 'It is amazing to read a fantasy novel that draws on ancient original knowledge systems and their understandings. It's fun to read a book you can identify with' Dr Bronwyn Bancroft, award-winning Bundjalung artist and author 'Lystra Rose writes with a fresh and compelling voice, seamlessly marrying meticulous word craft and storytelling with a deep connection to her Indigenous culture. This is uniquely Australian storytelling with purpose and a poetic sensibility' Tim Baker, bestselling author 'Not a surfer? Me neither, but I felt like I rode the waves with Kirra, feeling the salt spray on my face. Not Indigenous? Me neither, but I felt like I walked, and at times ran, amid the rich Yugambeh culture. There are so many things I am not, but that's why I love to read. The Upwelling is a cultural education by stealth' Bern Young, award-winning radio presenter, ABC Gold Coast