Juice

By Peter Deadman

WINNER 2025 RUBERY PRIZE YOUNG ADULT NOVEL

In a world that fears the future, one boy dares to seek it.

Sixteen-year-old Will has been raised to distrust technology. After a cataclysm known as the Devastation, his isolated community rejected the old world--shunning electricity, machines, and the progress they once promised. But Will yearns for more.

When he's cast out for questioning the rules, he sets off alone on a perilous journey to Coal City, the last place his estranged father was seen--and a place rumored to hold the key to a better life. Armed with only his survival skills and relentless determination, Will navigates treacherous terrain and encounters unlikely allies: rugged coal miners, a band of traveling circus performers, and a fearless acrobat who challenges everything he thought he knew.
As Will's journey unfolds, so does his understanding of the world's harsh beauty--and its hidden dangers. When he finally reaches Coal City, he uncovers a brutal truth: the city is ruled by a tyrant who thrives on slavery, corruption, and fear. To confront this evil, Will must risk everything--and decide what kind of future he truly believes in.
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Josie Lloyd, Sunday Times #1 bestselling author calls it "A thrilling, epic adventure that's also a prescient tale for our times. I could not put it down.'

Nikki Sheehan, Award-winning author and writing coach says 'Peter Deadman is a striking new voice in YA literature and his debut, Juice, is an important addition to the post-apocalyptic canon, with a timely environmental twist. Highly recommended.'

Reader reviews
'Beautifully and skilfully written, a moving, exciting and relatable tale', '
'A very ingenious, colourful and exciting read',
'A great read, thought provoking, gripping, and faultlessly written. It took me quickly into a place I didn't want to leave',
'The post-apocalyptic vision is mesmerising. What a trip ',
'Page turning...moving...gritty...visceral... a timely reminder of what's important'.
'Riveting The anticipation of each next chapter. The unexpected plot twists. The emotional rollercoaster.'
'I was absorbed in it for two days, gripped by the narrative drive, loving the characters and, of course, the theme. I also want to acknowledge also the quality of the writing. It's a cracker'.'

'I LOVED this riveting book The anticipation of each next chapter. The unexpected plot twists. The emotional rollercoaster. Truly excellent writing that kept my attention from beginning to end.
This novel is not only entertaining but also thought provoking in all the right ways. An environmental breakdown of this proportion could actually happen in our not so distant future.'

'A powerful page turner of a dystopian novel with a clear warning of what humans are doing to planet Earth and the inheritance we will be leaving to young people if we don't get our collective 'act' together. I do hope there will be a sequel '

'I loved this book and can't wait to read the next instalment. Eloquently written, engaging and thought provoking. Enjoyable for young and older adults alike.'

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0DX24V3QY
• ISBN13: 9781036907808
• Release Date: April 2025
• Publisher: Bookbaby
• Length: 276 Pages
• Age Range: 13 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 8 and higher