Adolescence is all about transformation, risk, passion – but what happens when young people are pushed to their limits? 

Author Holden Sheppard has been widely acclaimed for his YA novels, which explore these limits with nuance and compassion.  

In his new book, The Brink, a group of schoolies confront a life-changing tragedy on a trip they’ll never forget. In Sheppard’s award-winning debut novel (and its forthcoming television adaptation) Invisible Boys, three teenage boys come to terms with their homosexuality in a town where queerness is invisible. 

On this episode, hear Sheppard discuss the jagged edges of adolescence in conversation with C.S. Pacat. 

The bookseller for this event was Readings. 

This podcast was recorded on 4 August 2022 at the Wheeler Centre. 

The Wheeler Centre’s programming for young audiences is generously supported by The Hon. Justice Michelle Gordon AC and The Hon. Kenneth Hayne AC QC. 

Music: Pastel Colours by Sarah, the Illstrumentalist   

Support the Wheeler Centre: https://www.wheelercentre.com/support-us/donate

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