Jane Higgins won the 2010 Text Prize for her debut novel The Bridge. She lives in Christchurch, New Zealand. Glimpse, her third novel for young adults, draws on her experience of the 2011 Queenstown earthquake, which killed 185 people and caused major damage to the city.
‘A brilliant novel with echoes of John Wyndham’s The Chrysalids, its young protagonists show heart in a world of despair.’ -- West Australian on The Bridge ‘Higgins threads the turns and twists of chaotic times with a sure hand…Higgins’ control of the development of her characters is admirable.’ -- Magpies on The Bridge ‘Winner of the Text Prize, this is a powerful dystopian adventure about questioning authority, the complexities of war and enduring bonds.’ -- Fran Atkinson, Saturday Age/Sydney Morning Herald on The Bridge ‘Havoc is urgent, moving and believable.’ -- New Zealand Listener on Havoc ‘An outstanding teenage novel…World class.’ -- RNZ Nine to Noon on Havoc ‘Brilliantly wrought story, the characterisation is subtle and nuanced, the moral underpinnings of the story are really something else…So moving…I burst into tears while I was reading it, it’s really beautifully done.’ -- Kate de Goldi on Havoc ‘An ideal introduction to dystopian fiction for young teens…Engaging, thoughtful and elegantly written.’ * Books+Publishing * ‘A fascinating and fast-paced story of conflict and power, manipulation and society, set in a richly imagined world…Glimpse is another fire cracker from an author who draws inspiration from the real world to tell thrilling stories that will captivate readers.’ * NZ Booklovers * ‘An exciting adventure.’ * Readings * ‘Another memorable title, another stunning cover, and a truly audacious concept, grounded in reality…A standalone tribute to the community of [Jane Higgins’] beloved Ōtautahi.’ * NZ Listener * ‘If you are looking for a brilliant, fast-paced and riveting read, here it is…Generous in complex themes, the brilliant prose leads the reader through issues of detention camps, illegal migrants, gang warfare and specifically, strength and survival…The best book I’ve read this year.’ * Kids’ Book Review * ‘Highly recommended.’ * ReadPlus * ‘This dystopian, cli-fi novel is packed with action…Some of the themes that weave through the story include family, friendship, self-esteem, grief and accepting change.’ * Magpies * ‘Higgins crafts a cast of diverse and compelling characters, their witty exchanges and unwavering camaraderie tugging at the reader’s heartstrings…This unique novel is an enthralling exploration of a world defined by its vulnerabilities and strengths, as well as the indomitable spirit of those who challenge the injustices. Glimpse is a clever and powerful novel.’ * CBCA Reading Time * ‘Glimpse is a novel that demonstrates conflict between loyalty and freedom of life. The Demolition Zone is full of action, clashing loyalties and lies. This book is perfect for people who like conspiracies and crime, mixed with a bit of sci-fi.’ * Rose, Year 7, Good Reading Magazine *