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October: books of the month

The Woman on the Stairs by Bernhard Schlink

 Award-winning author Bernhard Schlink, whose previous works include the celebrated novel The Reader, weaves a complex and compelling tale in his new book. A painting by a famed German artist, thought to have been lost forever, has been anonymously donated to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Its reappearance draws three men to a remote island near Sydney, all of whom share a complicated history and were once in love with the mysterious woman in the painting. 

Dear Lindy by Alana Valentine

Lindy Chamberlain’s trial, conviction and redemption was one of the most followed and documented murder cases in Australia’s history. Almost 20 years later, acclaimed playwright and award-winning author Alana Valentine reflects on the impact the case had on our national psyche with a selection of letters sent to Lindy throughout her ordeal. We hear directly from Lindy too, in candid conversations with the author, a foreword authored by her and a letter she wrote to her 16-year-old self. Dear Lindy is a fascinating time capsule of 1980s and 1990s Australia, reflecting our changing attitudes to Lindy Chamberlain and how far we've come as a nation.

The Crying Years: Australia’s Great War by Peter Stanley

Celebrated historian Peter Stanley has created a compelling visual exploration of the impact of World War I on Australia. The book uses previously unseen photographs, artefacts and images from the National Library’s collection to give readers unprecedented insight into the lives of ordinary Australians both at home and abroad during a harrowing and extraordinary time in our history. 

The Book of Forgotten Authors by Christopher Fowler

For literary enthusiasts, Christopher Fowler’s new offering is a must-read. Crackling biographies of 99 authors are punctuated by short essays which mine the annals of literary history to reveal the stories of authors whose names are forgotten, but whose work is undoubtedly worthy of our attention. Fowler’s obvious passion for the subject is clear, as he compellingly relays tales of writers who ran afoul of publishers, wrote scandalous stories and paved the way for their famous contemporaries.

Inglorious Empire: What the British Did to India by Shashi Tharoor

Shashi Tharoor’s brilliantly researched and compelling work offers a groundbreaking interpretation of British rule in India. Tharoor examines and dismantles the ‘gifts’ of British intervention in the region and asks readers to consider the devastating legacy of colonialism.

There’s Your Quote, Mate by Antonio Tati

Founding editor of the renowned rock music publication, Cream Magazine, Antonino Tati reflects on his long and storied career through an anthology of compelling and unique interviews with some of music’s greatest icons over the decades. If you want to read one-on-ones with the likes of Patti Smith, Kylie Minogue, Duran Duran and more, pick up this book.

Force of Nature by Jane Harper

Jane Harper’s sophomore offering follows the story of five women on a corporate retreat in the rugged Giralang Ranges. After one woman fails to return from a hike, a complex web of deception, friendship and betrayal emerges. As tense and explosive as Harper’s award-winning first novel, The Dry, Force of Nature is an addictive page-turner.