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Writer's pictureGregory Andrews

Review of Juice by Tim Winton: A Reflection on Climate, Consequence and Conscience

Last week, I had the privilege of introducing Tim Winton to Canberra book lovers at ANU's Llewellyn Hall while acting as Chair of the Canberra Writers Festival. It was a moment that will stay with me - standing before an eager audience, welcoming one of Australia’s most celebrated authors to share his thoughts on his new book Juice, a novel that has stirred both minds and hearts. The evening's highlight was an engaging discussion between Tim and our Festival's fabulous Artistic Director, Beejay Silcox, about the themes and urgency embedded in this timely book.


Set in a future Australia ravaged by the consequences of climate change, Juice presents a haunting vision of a world where the impacts of our current actions - or lack thereof - are laid bare. The story follows two fugitives, a man and a child, as they navigate a harsh, burnt-out landscape of abandoned mines and ruined towns, remnants of the choices made today. Winton’s usually evocative prose paints a vivid picture of this desolate future, yet the book’s true focus is the ethical reckoning that accompanies it. The characters are haunted not just by their circumstances but by the knowledge that previous generations, aware of the harm they did, continued down a path that ruined the planet at the cost of their descendants.


What struck me most - and what Tim emphasised so poignantly on stage - is how Juice addresses the moral responsibilities we face now. It challenges us to confront the reality that if we do not “pull our finger out,” as Tim put it, we are knowingly creating a world that will be up to 3°C hotter during the lifetimes of young people living now. This is more than just a narrative of survival; it’s a searing call to conscience, urging readers to recognise the weight and responsibility of the choices we make today. Winton reminds us that while human resilience matters, we have a moral duty to act before resilience becomes our only option.


Critics have praised Juice for its masterful storytelling and emotional depth, positioning it as a cornerstone of climate fiction. Yet beyond the gripping narrative lies a deeper plea for urgency. As Winton highlighted during the discussion, this novel is not merely a cautionary tale - it’s a demand for immediate action, a reminder of our shared responsibility to future generations.


For Australians seeking to understand the true stakes of climate change for our nation and its peoples, Juice is essential reading. It’s a story that demands we reflect on the choices we are making now and their profound impact on tomorrow. Introducing Tim Winton to Canberra was an honour, and his discussion with Beejay deepened my appreciation for this powerful work. I urge you to pick up Juice. Let it challenge your conscience, and inspire the change we so desperately need.



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3 comentários


Mamacitas WA
Mamacitas WA
27 de out.

An interesting review, I found the book lacking on many levels despite being a huge Winton fan. I think he needed to have chosen an omniscient voice not the first person for such a big book, 500+ pages - while

I’m a big fan and love his activism and agrees with him I really believe this book failed on every level.

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george.beaton
26 de out.

I am finding Juice challenging my conscience and inspiring me to advocate for change. Bravo. George Beaton

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Gregory Andrews
Gregory Andrews
26 de out.
Respondendo a

Me too George. Validated for my climate activism, inspired to do more and angry with corporations and leaders who are failing to act.

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