The Australian Literary Landscape
- Mikayla Young
- Jan 3
- 5 min read
Australia, with its vast landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, has produced a remarkable array of literature that reflects the diverse experiences and stories of its people. From sprawling outback narratives to urban dramas, the literary works crafted by Australian authors offer a unique lens through which to view the Australian experience. In this post, we delve into some notable books set in Australia, each written by homegrown authors, showcasing the depth and variety of the Australian literary landscape.
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Children's/Middle Grade
Australia Setting
Genres: Fantasy Mystery
Picture Book
Ages: 8+
Livy returns to her grandmother's house in Australia after five years, sensing she's forgotten something crucial. She's right—Bob, a small greenish creature in a chicken suit, has been waiting in a closet for her return. Bob remembers Livy and her promise to help him, though he can't recall his origins or family. Together, Livy and Bob embark on a journey to uncover his past, discovering lasting magic along the way.
Australian Author
Genres: Mystery Fiction
Novel
Ages: 8+
On the day of Cassie's birth, her town was submerged underwater as part of a celebratory event led by the mayor. Twelve years later, Cassie is inexplicably drawn to the manmade lake that now covers Old Lower Grange. She and her classmate Liam, who hides scars on his legs, swim across the lake's restricted areas, uncovering glimpses of the submerged town. As the water level drops, secrets emerge that a prominent figure wishes to keep hidden. Cassie is faced with the challenge of revealing these truths before it's too late, questioning whether she has the courage to confront what lies beneath.
Australian Author
Series: Elementals 1
Genres: Fantasy Adventure
Novel
Ages: 8+
In Vallen, ice wolves and scorch dragons are sworn enemies. When twelve-year-old orphan Anders discovers his elemental form differs from his twin sister Rayna's, he questions their connection. Despite Rayna being claimed by the dragons, Anders is determined to rescue her, as she remains his only true friend. To do so, he must join Ulfar Academy, a school for young wolves that prioritizes loyalty to the pack. For Anders, however, true loyalty and friendship transcend obedience, proving to be the most potent forces of all.
Young Adult
Australian Author
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Novel
Ages: 14+
Sam, a geeky movie enthusiast, and his group of unpopular friends have long endured mistreatment from the popular crowd. However, when the charismatic Camilla arrives in town, she unexpectedly chooses to hang out with Sam's group, transforming their social status from geek to chic. As their social dynamics shift, Sam and Camilla grow closer, becoming best friends. Sam feels more content and confident than ever, but he eventually realizes he's in love with Camilla. The question remains whether revealing his feelings will alter their relationship once more.
This Time It's Real by Ann Liang
Author: Grew up in China and Australia
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Novel
Ages: 16+
Seventeen-year-old Eliza Lin's life takes a dramatic turn when her fictional essay about meeting her true love goes viral, earning her popularity and a coveted internship. However, the essay is a lie—Eliza has never been in love. To maintain her secret, she convinces Caz Song, a famous actor and classmate, to pretend to be her boyfriend in exchange for help with his college applications. As their fake relationship deepens, Eliza faces the dilemma of pursuing her dreams at the risk of breaking her own heart.
Australian Setting
Genres: Contemporary Fiction
Novel
Ages: 16+
Dylan dreams of sailing to France with her beloved French mother, envisioning Paris as a place where her black skin won't stand out. However, after losing her mother in a tragic accident, Dylan embarks on a different journey across outback Australia with her mother's grieving boyfriend, Pat. As they travel further from the ocean, they form an unexpected bond, which is tested when Pat leaves Dylan with family she never knew. "Metal Fish, Falling Snow" is a warm, humorous, and original story of a young girl's quest for identity and coping with loss, celebrating human resilience and the search for self-understanding.
Adult
Australian Setting and Author
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Novel
Ages: 18+
Kate is struggling with grief and single parenting after losing her husband, Cameron. Despite her chaotic life, she maintains her humor while dealing with a demanding job, an overbearing mother, and a matchmaking friend. A weekend stranded with her boss, Hugh, offers Kate a chance to confront her grief and consider opening her heart again. As secrets emerge, Kate revisits notes that once guided her life, contemplating whether the last one will set her free.
Australian Setting
Series: Aaron Folk 1
Genres: Mystery Thriller
Novel
Ages: 18+
Amidst the worst drought in a century, Kiewarra's farming community faces dire choices when a local family is found slain. Federal Police investigator Aaron Falk returns for his friend's funeral, confronting a town that shunned him twenty years ago. As suspicions grow, Falk delves into the Hadler family's deaths, uncovering a secret he shared with Luke Hadler, now threatened by Luke's demise in this small Australian town.
Australian Setting and Author
Genres: Literary Fiction
Novel
Ages: 18+
In 1992, amid the High Court's landmark decision on Indigenous land rights in Australia, Tarena Palson, a recent law graduate from Sydney University, finds herself thrust into her first legal case. Her Torres Strait Islander family is claiming a valuable pearl shell from the estate of a deceased white doctor. Despite her involvement, Tarena questions her role in a predominantly white legal system and contemplates her future in Sydney, pondering whether city life truly suits her and if others also struggle to keep pace with life's demands.
Conclusion
Australia’s literary landscape is as diverse as its geography, with stories that span genres and themes, each uniquely reflective of the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the harsh realities of colonial history to the complexities of modern urban life, these homegrown authors invite readers to embark on journeys that illuminate the beauty, struggles, and triumphs of the Australian experience.
As you explore these works, you’ll not only gain insight into the diverse narratives that shape Australia but also develop a deeper appreciation for the voices that emerge from this remarkable land. The literary contributions of these authors continue to resonate, encouraging readers to reflect on their own connections to place, identity, and community.
Consider immersing yourself in these stories, as they represent the heart and soul of Australia, offering timeless reflections that engage and inspire.
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