Review
A girl in flight for sanctuary and to find out who she is
In Courtney Collins’ Bird the main character wakes up in hospital, unsure of where she comes from or who she is.
- by Jessie Tu
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At the heart of a love story, an urge to understand Country
Anita Heiss’ second historical novel is an act of remembering, educative about sorry business and the need for empathy.
- by Lucy Sussex
It may be a miniature, but this story of music strikes the right note
Andrew Ford speculates that music might predate speech. But in his informative “shortest history”, he insists that music is not a universal language.
- by Barney Zwartz
What to read next: The brilliant Rachel Cusk and a striking memoir
Our reviewers cast their eyes over recent fiction and non-fiction releases.
- by Cameron Woodhead and Fiona Capp
Queer lovers doubling up in the face of society’s hostility
In Dylin Hardcastle’s second novel, the two main characters face pressure not to be their true selves.
- by Declan Fry
Twelve books to keep you busy in August
There are plenty of books coming out this month. Here is just a selection of the titles that could keep you out of the chill for the next few weeks.
- by Jason Steger
High school friendships that haunt us for life: this crime novel is quite a story
Three friends go cliff climbing in Hayley Scrivenor’s new crime novel, but one plummets to her death. Why?
- by Sue Turnbull
A controversial scientist considers his many rights and wrongs
Paul R. Ehrlich’s memoir takes us through his long life in science.
- by Pat Sheil
These characters could have sprung from a steampunk Agatha Christie
Sarah Brooks’ fantasy debut is set on the Trans-Siberian Express.
- by Flynn Benson
This quiet novel explores female sexuality, without the male gaze
In her debut novel, Scaffolding, essayist Lauren Elkin exposes the intricate structures of desire.
- by Molly Murn
A deep dive into history to find its driving force
Paul Ham has written an ambitious and stimulating book arguing that history is powered by ideas. Our reviewer is not entirely convinced.
- by Michael McGirr