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Past the Shallows

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Past the Shallows

By: Favel Parrett
Narrated by: David Wenham
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About this listen

Past the Shallows is the award-winning, best-selling debut novel from Favel Parrett about the bonds of brotherhood and the fragility of youth, narrated by David Wenham.

Everyone loves Harry. Everyone except his father.

Three brothers - Joe, Miles and Harry - are growing up on the remote south coast of Tasmania. The brothers' lives are shaped by their father's moods - like the ocean he fishes, he is wild and unpredictable. He is a bitter man warped by a devastating secret.

Miles tries his best to watch out for Harry, the youngest, but he can't be there all the time. Often alone, Harry finds joy in the small treasures he discovers in shark eggs and cuttlefish bones. In a kelpie pup, a big mug of Milo and a secret friendship with a mysterious neighbour. But sometimes small treasures, or a brother's love, are not enough.

Winner - The ABIA Award (Newcomer of the Year) 2012. Winner - The Dobbie Literary Award 2012. Shortlisted for The Miles Franklin Literary Award 2012. Shortlisted for The ABIA Award (Book of the Year) 2012. Shortlisted for The ABIA Award (Literary Book of the Year) 2012. Shortlisted for The ABA's Bookseller's Choice Award 2012. Shortlisted for The Indies Award (Debut Fiction) 2012.

©2011 Favel Parrett (P)2016 Hachette Australia Pty Ltd Family Life Fiction Genre Fiction Heartfelt Tear-jerking

Critic Reviews

"Wintonesque." ( Herald Sun)
"That rare thing, a finely crafted literary novel that is genuinely moving and full of heart." ( The Age)
"An understated and beautifully penned story set on the Tasmanian coast, gives voice to two brothers as their lives are influenced by unpredictable forces.... Parrett's writing is exquisite in its simplicity and eloquence, and her narrative is heart-rending. This poignant story resonates." ( Kirkus Reviews, USA)
"Beautiful, stripped-back prose...there is magic here. Like Cormac McCarthy, Parrett packs a huge emotional punch thanks to the elegant brevity of her style. Stark, but unforgettable...." ( Marie Claire, UK)
"If you read only one book this year make sure it's this." ( The Sunday Times, Tasmania)
"I loved Past the Shallows." (Kevin Powers, author of The Yellow Birds)
All stars
Most relevant  
A strong story line, read with such understated passion. I will love listening to this book again

Loved the story , touching narration by David Wenham

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good story. told well . 1st ever audio book I've listened too and enjoyed it. 😊

1st time listener. great story

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What did you like most about Past the Shallows?

Engaging.Believable and likeable characters.The story flows well and there is a lot of dramatic tension.

Step inside the characters world.

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Very well written and superbly narrated - tragic tale which is sadly too close to reality.

As good as Winton

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It was a brilliant story filled with addiction, grief, hope, strength and the power behind a strong and loving connection.

The Story Was Brilliant 👏

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Beautiful story, depth of character and imagery. David Wenham’s narration was perfect. I have finished and now restarted it and enjoying connecting the dots with random things that initially passed me by.

Beautiful imagery

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I hesitated downloading this one, and I have to say I am glad that I decided to get it as I loved it. it is beautifully written and utterly tragic. I will listen to it again

wow!

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A heartbreaking book so evocative, brutal and redemptive. Narration, by David Wenham, was perfect. The characters of Miles and Harry will remain with me a long time.

Stunning

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A wonderful story and David Wenham was the exact right person to read this. Tragic and hopeful all in one. Highly recommend.

Heart is aching - beautifully written

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Great writing but David Wenham sounds like he's teaching elocution or something. Lots of self conscious over emphasis .

ghastly narration

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