Culture
Books
Confusion reigns over what J.D. Vance’s book really tells us about him
Hillbilly Elegy was acclaimed on publication in 2016, but now its author is Donald Trump’s running mate, assessments are changing.
- by Jane Sullivan
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At what age does an elder become elderly?
Aside from Donald Trump, most of us feel for Joe Biden, getting the tap that signals the twilight has gathered.
- by David Astle
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
Can crime fiction save lives? The clues are there if you know where to look
As I wrote my latest novel, I wanted readers to think about something bigger than ‘whodunit’.
- by J.P. Pomare
The ghost and his girlfriend: Evie Wyld’s novel of family trauma
The Stella and Miles Franklin winner’s latest novel, The Echoes, is narrated by the recently deceased Max.
- by Helen Elliott
Alexis Wright makes history with Miles Franklin, Stella wins in same year
Wright’s novel Praiseworthy was hailed by judges as “an astonishing feat of storytelling”.
- by Jason Steger
What to read next: A comedian’s first novel and memoir of East Germany
Our reviewers cast their eyes over recent fiction and non-fiction.
- by Cameron Woodhead and Steven Carroll