Deepwater trilogy

The Deepwater trilogy is a series of science fiction novels written by New Zealand author Ken Catran. The three books are titled Deepwater Black (1992), Deepwater Landing (1993) and Deepwater Angels (1994). The series addresses a number of current issues like pollution, racism and politics. The most prominent theme throughout the series is that "survival is not for oneself but for a greater cause." Other notable themes and elements include beauty, color, light amidst darkness, responsibility at a young age, the significance of youth in the ongoing existence of the human race, rebellion, and fear of the unknown.

First editions (publ. Tui)

Deepwater Black

Main article: Deepwater Black

Deepwater Black is the first novel in the Deepwater trilogy by New Zealand author Ken Catran, published in 1992. The story follows Robbie Mikkelson, a 13-year-old boy living an ordinary life until he experiences a phenomenon called "prexing," which transports him between two realities.

Plot

Robbie is an ordinary teenager on Earth, living with his family and dealing with typical school issues. His life changes when Yoona, a girl only he can see, appears and tells him he's needed on Deepwater. Robbie finds himself transported to a massive spaceship where he is Reb, second-in-command. On Deepwater, Reb works with other teenagers—Yoona, Bren, Gret, Lis, and Zak—who are descendants of Solar System colonists. They face challenges including: battling alien creatures (trites, amebs, solunks, and mag-mets), dealing with "Jel," a dangerous substance in the ship's ventilation system, managing long duty shifts to stay alive, growing distrust among the crew, questioning their identities and purpose, Robbie/Reb struggling to reconcile his dual existence as he "prexes" between Earth and Deepwater, with his life on the spaceship becoming increasingly real.

Themes

• Survival for a greater cause
• Identity and self-discovery
• The role of youth in humanity's future
• Environmental issues

Deepwater Landing (1993)

The second book focuses on Denie Miles, who awakens on Deepwater as Cei. The ship returns to space searching for a crucial mission element. New threats emerge both on Earth and in space.

Deepwater Angels

In the final installment, Conn (an "Earthkid") wakes up on Deepwater, which is now stranded on Earth. The crew must complete one last mission on their home planet.

Adaptation

The trilogy was adapted into a television series in 1997, marking the Sci Fi Channel's first original scripted production. Titled Mission Genesis in the United States, it was a co-production between YTV Network and USA Networks, distributed by Sunbow Entertainment. In Canada and the United Kingdom, the series retained the original title, Deepwater Black.