'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
'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
