Travis Fimmel, Trent Dalton, Lee Tiger Halley and Felix Cameron on set | NETFLIX Phoebe Tonkin on set | NETFLIXĮli’s tale is intertwined with the anecdotes of these characters, an almost crime novel that touches on human themes of ageing, brotherhood and young love. He finds support in his mute older brother, Gus, and an ex-con named Slim, who poses as somewhat of a father figure to the young boy. However, unlike the clucky coming-of-age classics that have swept Australia in the past ( Puberty Blues, anyone?) Bell’s tale is equal parts heart-wrenching and heartwarming, with a peppering of brutal realism.īoy Swallows Universe explores Eli’s upbringing surrounded by drug dealers and thieves, beginning when he is only 12 years old and living amongst violence with his drug-addicted mother and heroin-dealing stepfather.

On set of Boy Swallows Universe | NETFLIX What is Boy Swallows Universe about?ĭalton’s debut novel tells the story of Eli Bell as he navigates growing up in 1980’s Australia. Sprinkled with loose anecdotes from Dalton’s own upbringing in 1980’s working-class Brisbane, Boy Swallows Universe captured the hearts of Australian readers, and there is little doubt the forthcoming series with be equally as unmissable. TRENT DALTON’S best-selling Boy Swallows Universe is one of Australia’s most enduring novels - and now, the cathartic classic is being transformed for the small screen.

Phoebe Tonkin on the set of Boy Swallows Universe | NETFLIX

Boy Swallows Universe by Trent Dalton