New Book Releases: Political Analysis and Powerful Stories of Resilience
This week sees the arrival of a compelling collection of new books, spanning from detailed political analysis to deeply moving fictional narratives. The releases offer readers a chance to explore the intricacies of Australia's recent political landscape alongside tales of personal struggle, historical insight, and cultural celebration.
Non-Fiction: Examining Policy and History
The First Albanese Government, edited by Michelle Grattan, John Halligan, and John Hawkins, provides a comprehensive academic examination of the Albanese government's initial term in office. Published by UNSW Press and priced at $49.99, this volume assembles essays from over thirty contributors, including prominent academics and public policy experts.
The book meticulously traces the policy achievements and shortcomings of what is described as a cautious first term. With a preface supplied by University of Canberra vice-chancellor and former opposition leader Bill Shorten, the chapters delve into critical subjects. These include the disappointing failure of the Voice referendum, the ongoing housing crisis, the complexities of AUKUS and China relations, immigration policies, industrial relations reforms, aged care challenges, and the pervasive cost of living crisis.
In Riots by historian Fiona Skyring, published by UWA Publishing for $39.99, the narrative shifts to post-World War I Australia. The book challenges the sanitised Anzac legend, revealing how many returning soldiers, physically and psychologically scarred, found themselves in a nation ill-prepared for their reintegration. Skyring argues that the resulting anger manifested in widespread and serious brawls and riots across the country, events she contends have been historically underacknowledged.
Nature People by Dr Cesar Puechmarin, from Affirm Press at $49.99, is a visually stunning tribute to Australia's naturalists. Entirely photographed on colour negative film to evoke nostalgia, the book profiles twelve individuals dedicated to studying nature in environments ranging from swamps and jungles to backyards. It celebrates their work with subjects including frogs, fossils, platypus, gliders, quolls, and bats.
Historian Henry Reynolds continues his influential work with Looking from the North, published by NewSouth for $34.99. The book reorients Australian history by focusing on the colonisation of the continent's north. It explores the experiences of Indigenous inhabitants and the contributions of European, Chinese, Japanese, and Pacific Islander settlers, challenging the traditional southern-centric historical narrative.
Fiction: Exploring Trauma and Resistance
The fiction releases are equally powerful, beginning with Bugger by Michael Mohammed Ahmad. Published by Hachette at $34.99, this fourth novel from the Miles Franklin Award-shortlisted author tells the poignant story of ten-year-old Hamoodi. His vibrant, Power Rangers-filled childhood is shattered by an episode of sexual abuse from a family member. The narrative explores his isolation, longing for his absent father, and the complex dynamics of growing up fast in Australia.
In a Common Hour marks the debut novel of Queensland teacher Sita Walker, published by Ultimo Press for $34.99. Set in the melting pot of Parks State High, the story unfolds through the lives of misfit students and burnt-out teachers. At its centre is beloved teacher Paul Bush, whose life is irrevocably changed by a single devastating lunchtime event triggered by a disgruntled student.
J.R. Lonie, co-writer of the film Kokoda, presents The Woman in the Spotlight, a wartime thriller from HarperCollins priced at $34.99. Set in 1930s Berlin, it follows Bavarian actress Monika Varady as she navigates the rise of the Nazi regime. With the theatre scene under Joseph Goebbels' control, Monika must use her acting skills to resist corruption and protect her integrity and loved ones.
Finally, Alexandra Potter's So, I Met This Guy... from Macmillan at $47.99 offers a story of fraud and self-discovery. When Maggie's hope for a soulmate turns into a nightmare where a man steals her savings, home, and self-esteem, she teams up with young reporter Flick. Their pursuit of the fraudster across Europe evolves into an unlikely friendship and a journey about finding oneself, suggesting the real love story has nothing to do with the guy at all.
This diverse slate of new releases promises to engage readers with rigorous analysis, historical revelation, and profound human stories, reflecting the rich tapestry of contemporary Australian publishing.
