Blind Spot

Shortlisted for the 2021 Text Prize

When Dale stumbles into a bedroom at a party and sees a drunk girl being undressed by a group of guys, he backs away and runs. He’s pretty drunk himself, but he knows what he saw.

Why didn’t he stop them? Why did he run?

These questions haunt him. He wants to make things right but he doesn’t know how.

There’s no way he can talk to his dad. His mum walked out months ago. And his best friend, Kieran, wouldn’t understand. Dale’s not even sure Kieran would see a problem with what happened. Kieran is so casual about sex. And drugs. And life in general. The opposite of Dale.

Then Max arrives, Dale’s cousin. She’s older, smart, cool—with her own perspective on Dale’s problem, and her own problems.

And there’s Brent. He’s a year older than Dale, and hot—everything Dale is looking for, but will he have the answers Dale is looking for?

‘A raw and compelling depiction of adolescence, with all its joys, agonies and consequences. A brilliant read.’ Holden Sheppard

‘An honest, authentic and compelling insight into the complexity of [Dale’s] life…You won’t be able to put this book down.’ ReadPlus

‘A sophisticated, challenging novel that explores themes of personal responsibility alongside a duty of care for others…Dennison writes Dale with great depth and empathy…A compelling, important novel for young people.’ Bec Kavanagh, Books+Publishing

‘A riveting read that takes an unflinching look at a likeable character dealing with the repercussions of a single, devastating decision.’ Sydney Morning Herald