Recommended Reading Before Visiting
I’ll be traveling to Brisbane, Cairns, and Sydney later this year from the UK, and I’m eager to dive into Australian history and culture before my trip. I’m interested in historical fiction that’s rooted in truth, or captivating non-fiction. I’d appreciate any recommendations you have. Thank you!
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That sounds like an amazing trip! Here are some great books that will give you insights into Australian history and culture:
“The Secret River” by Kate Grenville – This historical novel explores the life of a convict in early colonial Australia and delves into the complex relationships between settlers and Indigenous peoples.
“The Songlines” by Bruce Chatwin – A blend of travel writing and anthropology, this book offers a deep exploration of Indigenous Australian culture and the concept of ‘songlines’ in their spirituality and storytelling.
“True History of the Kelly Gang” by Peter Carey – This novel gives a fictional account of the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly, capturing the spirit of rebellion and the harsh realities of life in 19th-century Australia.
“Girt: The Unauthorised History of Australia” by David Hunt – A humorous and engaging take on Australian history, covering everything from early explorations to contemporary issues, this book will entertain while informing you.
“Dark Emu” by Bruce Pascoe – This non-fiction work challenges traditional views of Indigenous agriculture and provides a compelling narrative on how First Nations people lived sustainably on the land long before European settlement.
“My Place” by Sally Morgan – A poignant memoir that explores the author’s journey of discovery about her Indigenous heritage, shedding light on personal and collective histories.
“In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson – This travel memoir offers a wry and informative look at Australia, its landscape, and its people, blending history with humor.
“The Fatal Shore” by Robert Hughes – An epic non-fiction account of the founding of Australia as a penal colony, it provides a detailed and thought-provoking perspective on early colonial history.
These books should give you a rich backdrop to your travels, enriching your understanding of the places you’ll visit. Enjoy your trip!