Description

Joshua is a troubled boy who lives with his mother and stepfather in a divided city, where a wall and soldiers separate two communities, and the rubble-strewn residue of their broken world gives hints of the old life before the wall was built. Joshua discovers a manhole, which leads to a tunnel, which leads in pitch darkness under the wall and across to the other side. Forbidden territory, dangerous territory, violent territory, which a boy like him - visibly different - shouldn't stray into. An act of kindness from a girl saves his life, but leads to a brutal act of cruelty and a terrible debt he's determined to repay. And no one, no one must find out that he's been there - or the consequences will be unbearable.

Promotion info

A powerful, searing story of a divided city - where one boy strays on to the wrong side of the wall, and finds his life changed forever ...

Awards

CILIP Carnegie Medal shortlist 2014

Reviews

A novel for all ages that is full of heart, hope and humanity. A terrific achievement Financial Times A disturbing and thought-provoking book which simmers with heat, anger and fear Independent on Sunday A powerful tale of a divided city The Bookseller

Author description

William Sutcliffe was born in London in 1971. He is the author of five previous novels - the international bestseller Are You Experienced?, The Love Hexagon, New Boy, Bad Influence and, most recently, Whatever Makes You Happy. His work has been translated into more than twenty languages.