Tag: Australian literature
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Adelaide Writers’ Week 2026 Cancelled: Board Apology and Fallout Over Randa Abdel-Fattah Controversy
Overview: A Festival But Not as Planned The Adelaide Writers’ Week 2026 has been cancelled amid a wave of controversy and a coordinated withdrawal of more than 180 authors and speakers. The decision to disinvite Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah sparked protests from writers, readers, and advocacy groups, ultimately leading to a full stop on…
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Adelaide Writers’ Week cancels amid furor over Palestinian author’s axing
Introduction The Adelaide Writers’ Week, a cornerstone of Australia’s literary calendar, has been cancelled following ongoing controversy surrounding the cancellation of a scheduled appearance by a prominent Australian‑Palestinian activist and author. The decision, announced amid mounting public and professional pressure, marks a rare and high‑profile escalation in the debate over free expression, censorship, and the…
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Adelaide Festival Controversy: Authors Boycott After Randa Abdel-Fattah Dump
Protest Hits Adelaide Festival as Randa Abdel-Fattah Is Dropped Australian readers and writers are watching a growing controversy unfold as the Adelaide festival faces a wave of boycotts from dozens of authors. The dispute began when Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah was removed from the festival lineup, with organizers citing concerns over “cultural sensitivity.” The…
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A Great Act of Love: Heather Rose Unfolds Family Convict History in a Mythic Tasmanian Landscape
Introduction: A Family History Rewritten Heather Rose’s A Great Act of Love invites readers into a meticulous excavation of her own lineage, weaving personal memory with the stark history of convict Australia. Set against the harsh terrain of Van Diemen’s Land, the novel expands beyond a traditional memoir to become a meditation on guilt, loyalty,…
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Helen Garner on the Mushroom Murders Trial: A Critical Take
Helen Garner weighs in on a notorious case In a culture hungry for courtroom detail and narrative drama, Australian author Helen Garner has once again surprised readers with a measured, literary response to a high-profile trial. The so-called “mushroom murders” case, which captured headlines and sparked countless debates about motive, strategy, and the media’s role,…
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Australia’s Favourite Books of the 21st Century: Authors Share Top Picks
Australia’s 21st‑century reading conversation From the explosion of global publishing to intimate personal reckonings, the first 25 years of this century have produced countless books that linger in the mind. ABC Radio National has launched a nationwide vote to crown Australia’s 10 favourite books of the 21st century, with the countdown airing on October 18…
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Australia’s Favourite Books of the 21st Century: Authors Share Their Picks
As the 21st century unfolds, a chorus of Australia’s literary voices highlights the books that shaped their reading lives. From global bestsellers to keenly observed non-fiction, Australian writers are weighing in on the titles they believe have left the deepest imprint on readers’ hearts. ABC Radio National is counting down the nation’s ten favourite books…
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Australia’s Favourite Authors Share Their Top 21st-Century Reads
Australia’s favourite authors weigh in with their 21st-century picks The first 25 years of this century have seen millions of books published worldwide. To inspire voters for ABC Radio National’s 21st‑century favourites, a panel of beloved Australian writers shares the titles that moved them most. From sweeping novels to groundbreaking non-fiction, these picks illuminate the…
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Toni Jordan: From Greyhound Tracks to Literary Fame
The Early Years: Toni Jordan’s Unique Childhood Toni Jordan is a name synonymous with Australian literature. With eight novels under her belt, including her acclaimed debut, Addition, longlisted for the prestigious Miles Franklin Literary Award, her journey to becoming a celebrated author is both inspiring and unconventional. Interestingly, Jordan’s childhood experiences at greyhound tracks play…
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Exploring Toni Jordan’s ‘Tenderfoot’: A Journey Through Inspiration
Introduction to Toni Jordan and ‘Tenderfoot’ Toni Jordan, a celebrated Australian author, has made significant waves in the literary world, particularly with her recent novel, Tenderfoot. While she has penned a total of eight novels, her latest work draws heavily from her own childhood experiences at greyhound tracks. This article delves into how these early…