Sugar Rush (novel)

Sugar Rush is a novel written by Julie Burchill, first published in 2004. The book is a young adult (YA) coming-of-age story told from the perspective of Kimberley "Kim" Lewis, a 15-year-old girl who has recently moved from a private boarding school to a state school in Brighton.

The novel chronicles Kim's infatuation with her charismatic and rebellious best friend, Maria "Sugar" Sweet. Much of the narrative focuses on the exploration of sexuality, class differences, and the complex dynamics of female friendships. Kim's perspective offers an honest and often humorous look at the challenges and anxieties of adolescence.

Sugar Rush is known for its frank portrayal of teenage life, including drug use, sexual exploration, and the pressures of social acceptance. It received both praise and criticism for its explicit content.

The novel was adapted into a television series of the same name, which aired on Channel 4 in the UK. The TV adaptation differed from the novel in certain plot points and characterizations, but retained the core themes of female friendship and sexual awakening.