Crossing

By Catherine Norton

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

Catherine Norton’s first novel, Crossing, was joint winner of the Patricia Wrightson Prize in the 2015 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards. It was also a CBCA Notable Book. She was born in the UK but grew up mostly in Adelaide, where she lives with her husband, children and a very lazy whippet called Archer. She’s had dozens of jobs but writing novels is by far her favourite. This title is now being reissued as it is so remarkably relevant in today’s world.

11-year-old Cara has grown up in the shadow of the Wall, in a closed world of food shortages and high security. Like a good citizen, she keeps her eyes open for Suspicious Acts—fighting or protesting in the street, reading or writing anything that criticises the government or anyone in it. These show a lack of respect, says her dad, and that is a clue to deeper misgivings, like a speck on the skin of an apple that is rotten to the core.

Cara world is not set in a particular place or time, it is one strictly confined, both physically and mentally, conditions that have existed in the past, and are regrettably not unknown now. Her parents unhesitatingly accept the government’s promulgated precepts, creating a bleak family life of unquestioning obedience. It’s all Cara has ever known, until the summer she meets Ava and Leon, who live in an apartment upstairs. Ava doesn’t care about rules. Her motto is ‘Don’t ever let them wall up your mind’, one of the central themes of this novel which is also a moving exploration of family, friendship, courage and freedom.

Catherine writes with passion and insight about Cara’s journey to enlightenment. It is a fascinating read to see her gradual change from acceptance to understanding. While at times sad, the book has moments of intense joy and ends in spectacular triumph. Young readers will find this an enthralling read and teachers will find much to explore here in a class study.

Catherine Norton 2026

Catherine is also the author of

The Fortune Maker

Hester Hitchens and the Falling Stars