Literature
Eight years’ jail in absentia: The Russian-American journalist writing today’s history
Masha Gessen says there is nothing unique when it comes to making historical comparisons, only the usual responsibilities demanded of all writers.
- by Kurt Johnson
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Good Weekend’s 2024 Father’s Day reading guide
From Irish lit to insights on AI, politics and media: some of the best new books around.
- by Nicole Abadee
‘The younger sibling of horror’: thriller novel wins children’s book of the year
Author Tristan Bancks’ novel Scar Town is one of this year’s Children’s Book Council of Australia award winners.
- by Kerrie O'Brien
‘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
Like DNA, this novel unfolds as two strands, winding around each other
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