Boy Swallows Universe adapted for Netflix series

Book lovers, unite! Trent Dalton's magical, award-winning novel Boy Swallows Universe is being adapted for screen by Netflix.

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The semi-autographical book was an instant hit when it was released in 2018, going on to be published in 34 countries and adapted into a successful stage show in Queensland in 2021.

In early 2022 it was announced the novel had been picked up for an eight-part series by Netflix, as part of the streaming giant's mission to bring unique Australian stories to the world

"Boy Swallows Universe is a major milestone in our mission to unearth uniquely local stories that bring joy and connection in unexpected ways to our audiences here at home, and throughout the world," said Que Minh Luu, Netflix’s head of local originals for Australia and New Zealand at the time.

Netflix

"That sound you hear is my heart exploding," Dalton said in a statement of the adaptation. "Internal fireworks popping and flashing in pinks and purples and golds.

"Let me scrape my jaw from the floor and whisper those words again and make sure this dream is true: BOY SWALLOWS UNIVERSE IS BEING ADAPTED FOR THE SCREEN FOR NETFLIX. I truly can’t wait for you all to step inside Boy Swallows Universe, coming soon to Netflix!"

What is Boy Swallows Universe about?

If you haven't read it, the novel is set in Australia in 1983 and follows the tough life of 12-year-old Eli Bell.

He's got a mute brother, drug-dealing stepfather, incarcerated mother, lost father, and his greatest support is his babysitter, a notorious ex-con. He's just trying to make his way in a world that rarely seems to be on his side.

If you're keen to read Boy Swallows Universe, you can shop here on Booktopia for $20.99. Or you can pick it up for $9 in select Big W stores.