Literature
‘I hope it sticks to them like a tick’: A writer’s gift to her stalker
Author Ella Baxter has an unusual request for the person who sent her violent and sexual letters.
- by Melanie Kembrey
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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
‘I write about sports; it’s what my head is filled with’
Two of Joseph O’Neill’s novels have been shortlisted for the Booker. His latest has echoes of Heart of Darkness in its quest for a brilliant teenage African footballer.
- by Jason Steger
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
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
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
Dealing with May Gibbs wasn’t all Snugglepot and Cuddlepie
The illustrator’s first newspaper strip, Bib and Bub, was published 100 years ago. The astute businesswoman was perfectly capable of standing her ground in the male-dominated industry.
- by Tim Barlass
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
Australia breaks eight-year Booker Prize drought
Charlotte Wood has been long-listed for Stone Yard Devotional, the first book by an Australian on the prestigious list in eight years.
- by Kerrie O'Brien
Sick of winter? Survive the chilly nights with these eight books
Whether your favourite genre is romance, crime or history, there’s a new release to match your reading interests.
How a young writer fell into the clutches of the Pirate - and survived
As an 18-year-old Kari Gislason had an adventure in Corfu that has coloured the rest of his life.
- by Susan Johnson