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  • Boy Swallows Universe

  • A Novel
  • Written by: Trent Dalton
  • Narrated by: Stig Wemyss
  • Length: 16 hrs and 42 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (39 ratings)

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Boy Swallows Universe cover art

Boy Swallows Universe

Written by: Trent Dalton
Narrated by: Stig Wemyss
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Publisher's Summary


Set in 1980s Australia, Boy Swallows Universe by Trent Dalton is an awe-inspiring debut novel about a young boy and his journey to discovering the man he wants to become.

For 12-year-old Eli Bell, life is anything but ordinary, and his working-class Australian family is far from typical. With his mother in jail, his father lost, and his stepfather dealing heroin, Eli has no choice but to rely on his usually silent older brother, August, and Slim, a Brisbane drug dealer, to guide him. Their bad examples as babysitters mean Eli’s future may be an Aussie drug dealer. Living in Darra, a seedy suburb populated by refugees, his options are limited. His desires to pursue a career in journalism, follow his heart and become a good man are hindered by obstacles like Tytus Broz, Queensland’s legendary drug kingpin.

Trent Dalton’s fiction debut is a coming-of-age story set in a world filled with dangers that explores the themes of brotherhood, true love, family and unlikely friendships. As Eli navigates the complexities of adolescence and evades the threats around him, he’s about to fall in love, face off against bad guys and fight to save his mother from certain doom—all before starting high school. Filled with suspense, heartbreak, and joy, Boy Swallows Universe is a powerful and kinetic novel that will leave you exhilarated. Follow Eli’s journey as he discovers the man he is meant to be in this remarkable and unforgettable listen, infused with originality, charm, tension and heart.

Netflix is releasing an 8-episode limited series in 2023 starring Felix Cameron as Eli Bell and Lee Tiger Halley as Gus Bell.

What the critics say

“[A] marvelously plot-rich novel, which...is filled with beautifully lyric prose.... Exceptional.” (Booklist, starred review)

What listeners say about Boy Swallows Universe

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Great story - narration was perfect.

Best book I’ve listened to in the 5 years I’ve been on Audible. Narrator was fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute .

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    5 out of 5 stars

Engaging and funny

What a great book! The story was told with humour that kept things moving along quickly and the narrator brought the characters to life.

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