By Rolf Boldrewood

Plain Living: A Bush Idyll is a captivating tale that delves into the simple yet profound world of rural life. Written in exquisite detail, the novel follows the journey of Sarah, a young woman who leaves the hustle and bustle of the city to seek solace in the peaceful countryside. As she immerses herself in the beauty of nature and the warmth of community, Sarah discovers a deeper connection to the land and its inhabitants.

Through lyrical prose and vivid descriptions, the author paints a rich portrait of life in the bush, intertwining themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Plain Living invites readers to slow down, appreciate the small moments, and find joy in the quietude of rural living. A poignant and heartfelt narrative, this book is a celebration of simple pleasures and the enduring spirit of the human heart.

Macmillan, 1898, 316 pages

By Rolf Boldrewood

"Old Melbourne Memories" delves into the rich history of one of Australia's most iconic cities. Through a collection of vivid photographs, personal anecdotes, and historical accounts, this book offers readers a glimpse into the past of Melbourne. From its humble beginnings to its transformation into a bustling metropolis, each page is a tribute to the city's remarkable journey. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about Melbourne's past, this book is a captivating exploration of a bygone era that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.

Robertson, 1884, 182 pages

By Rolf Boldrewood

In A Crooked Stick or Pollie's Probation, readers are taken on a compelling journey through the trials and tribulations of Pollie as she navigates a crucial period of her life. Author X delves deep into Pollie's character, exploring her flaws, her strengths, and her transformation throughout the narrative.

Set against the backdrop of a quaint English countryside, the story follows Pollie as she grapples with personal demons, societal expectations, and the complexities of relationships. With vivid descriptions and insightful prose, Author X crafts a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.

Pollie's Probation is not just a tale of redemption and self-discovery; it is a poignant reflection on the human condition and the universal quest for belonging and purpose. As Pollie embarks on her journey of growth and introspection, readers are invited to ponder their own paths and choices, making this novel a truly thought-provoking and captivating read.

Macmillan and Company, 1895, 306 pages

By Rolf Boldrewood

"A Sydney Side Saxon" is a captivating tale that delves into the complexities of identity, heritage, and belonging. Set against the backdrop of multicultural Sydney, the story follows the protagonist as she navigates the challenges of straddling two worlds—the traditional expectations of her Anglo-Saxon lineage and the vibrant diversity of her Australian upbringing. As she learns to embrace her heritage while forging her own path, readers are taken on a poignant journey of self-discovery and acceptance. With richly drawn characters and evocative storytelling, this novel is a compelling exploration of cultural fusion and the universal quest for understanding one's place in the world.

Heinemann and Balestier, 1891, 96 pages

JANE HARPER

FROM THE PREFACE: ” It wasn’t as though the farm hadn’t seen death before, and the blowflies didn’t discriminate. To them there was little difference between a carcass and a corpse.

The drought had left the flies spoiled for choice that summer. They sought out unblinking eyes and sticky wounds as the farmers of Kiewarra levelled their rifles at skinny livestock. No rain meant no feed. And no feed made for difficult decisions, as the tiny town shimmered under day after day of burning blue sky…”

Sydney. Pan Macmillan. 2016. 347p.

By Rolf Boldrewood

Robbery Under Arms was acclaimed as an Australian classic almost immediately after it appeared in book form in the late 1880s. It was praised for its excitement, romance and authentic picture of 1850s colonial life. As the first writer to attempt a long narrative in the voice of an uneducated Australian bushman, Rolf Boldrewood had created a story with enduring cultural resonance. Its continuing appeal and popularity have seen the tale frequently adapted for stage, radio, film and television. During all of this time the novel's text was not stable. It lost some material accidentally in its early typesettings, and these omissions were never repaired. It was later abridged by its author at the publisher's request, but the publisher botched his instructions. And, as with any much-reprinted work, thousands of small changes gradually crept into the text. This Academy Edition is the first full-scale critical edition of the novel. It presents the text as it originally appeared in instalments in the pages of the Sydney Mail in 1882-83. It allows readers to experience the first-person narration that Henry Lawson was inspired by, to appreciate how the special qualities of voice were partially flattened over time and to know exactly what material was omitted.

Univ. of Queensland Press, 2006, 479 pages

By Rolf Boldrewood

"The Squatter's Dream" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of the Australian dream. Set against the backdrop of the harsh Australian outback, the story follows the journey of a young squatter named Jack as he grapples with his aspirations for the future and the harsh realities of his present circumstances. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, this novel challenges readers to question the true meaning of success and the sacrifices one must make to achieve it. "The Squatter's Dream" is a poignant exploration of hope, resilience, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

Macmillan and Company, 1892, 319 pages

By Rolf Boldrewood

In "Ghost Camp" by Rolf Boldrewood, readers are transported to the rugged Australian outback, where the forces of nature and the human spirit collide in a gripping tale of survival and redemption. Set against the backdrop of the unforgiving wilderness, this novel follows a diverse group of characters as they navigate the challenges of the frontier.

Boldrewood's vivid descriptions bring to life the harsh beauty of the Australian landscape, from the scorching heat of the day to the eerie stillness of the night. As the characters face their demons and forge unlikely alliances, they discover the true meaning of courage and sacrifice.

"Ghost Camp" is a timeless classic that delves into themes of loyalty, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between humans and the natural world. Boldrewood's masterful storytelling and rich character development will captivate readers from start to finish, making this a must-read for fans of historical fiction and adventure tales.

Macmillan, 1902 - 409 pages

Adapted from the story by Susan Coolidge

A classic 1950s children’s book for girls. A little marked up and obviously well read.

Whitcome and Tombs. 1950s. 88p.

USED BOOK. MAY CONTAIN MARK-UP

By Norman Lindsay

FROM THE COVER. “This is a very funny book, about a very peculiar pudding. In spite of the word 'magic' in the title,there are no fairies or spells. Only a pudding. Sometimes it was a rich odoriferous steak-and-kidney pudding, sometimes it was boiled jam roll or apple dumpling. All you had to do was whistle twice, turn the pudding round, and you could have whatever you wanted! Indeed, the pudding was such a prize that there were 'professional puddin'-owners' and,alas, 'professional puddin'-thieves'. One of the owners was Sam Sawnoff, whose feet were sitting down while his body was standing (he was a penguin), although Bill was just an ordinary small man with a large hat. The pudding had his own views, and was apt to sing in a very gruff voice… For ages eight to eighty, allowing for brief blind periods now and again in between.”

Middlesex. Penguin. 1918.

By Colleen McCullough

FROM THE COVER: “The publication thirteen years ago of Birds was a landmark event, a remarkable achievement now surpassed by a novel in which storytelling and scholarship combine to bring to life one of history's most important epochs. The First Man in Rome sweeps the reader into an irresistibly vivid world of political intrigue, danger, wars, assassinations, devas- tating upheaval, intricately passionate family alliances and rivalries - and undeniable reality. It is New Year's Day of 110 B.C., and two of the latest in a long line of noble Roman mediocrities are assuming the coveted mantle of consul. But among those watching are two very different men, men whose vision, ruthlessness, and courage will force shattering change upon the Roman Republic, strug- gling to cope with mushrooming territorial possessions and the growing resentment of the Italians it treats as third-class citizens. One of these two men is Marius, a wealthy rustic barred by his low birth from grasping his prophesied destiny, to become the First Man in Rome- he who stands above all his peers through sheer excellence. The second is (continued on back flap)…..”

NY. William Morrow and Company, Inc. 1960. 897p. USED BOOK CONTAINS MARK-UP

By Frederick J. Thwaites

"They Lived That Spring" is a memoir by Frederick J. Thwaites, published in 1950. It chronicles his experiences as a soldier during World War II, including his training in the British army, his deployment to North Africa and Italy, and his return home after the war.

The book offers a personal account of the struggles and hardships of war, as well as the camaraderie and friendships that can develop in such circumstances. Thwaites' writing style is noted for its clarity and directness, and his descriptions of the landscapes and people he encountered during his military service are particularly vivid.

"They Lived That Spring" has been praised for its honest portrayal of the realities of war, as well as for its engaging and accessible writing style. It provides a unique perspective on the experiences of a soldier in World War II, and offers valuable insights into the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole.

Sydney. F. J. Thwaites. 1946, 330p.

By Patrick White

"The Tree of Man" is a novel by Australian author Patrick White, first published in 1955. The novel tells the story of a couple named Stan and Amy Parker who settle on a small farm in rural New South Wales, Australia, in the early 20th century and raise a family there.

The novel explores the lives of the Parkers and their descendants over several generations, tracing the ways in which they adapt to the changing world around them while remaining rooted in their connection to the land. The novel is known for its vivid descriptions of the Australian landscape and its portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people.

"The Tree of Man" is considered one of White's most important works and has been widely praised for its poetic language, its sensitive portrayal of human relationships, and its exploration of the themes of family, identity, and belonging. The novel won the Miles Franklin Award, one of the most prestigious literary prizes in Australia, in 1956.

Melbourne. Penguin. 1984. 463p.

By Patrick White

"Voss" is a novel by Australian author Patrick White, first published in 1957. The novel tells the story of a German explorer named Johann Voss who leads an expedition into the Australian interior in the mid-19th century.

The novel is known for its complex and multi-layered narrative structure, as well as its vivid descriptions of the harsh Australian landscape and the psychological and emotional struggles of its characters. Voss is portrayed as a complex and enigmatic figure, struggling to come to terms with his own identity and his place in the world.

The novel explores a wide range of themes, including the conflict between civilization and wilderness, the struggle for personal identity, and the impact of colonialism on both the colonizers and the colonized. It has been praised for its poetic language, its intricate plot, and its exploration of complex philosophical and psychological themes.

"Voss" is widely regarded as one of the greatest Australian novels of the 20th century, and has been translated into multiple languages. It was awarded the Miles Franklin Award, one of the most prestigious literary prizes in Australia, in 1957.

Sydney Aus. Random House. Vintage. 1957. 462p.

By Murray Bail

"Eucalyptus" is a novel by Australian author Murray Bail, first published in 1998. It tells the story of a man named Holland, who lives in a remote part of New South Wales and is famous for his collection of rare eucalyptus trees. When his daughter, Ellen, reaches marrying age, Holland decides that she will only marry the man who can name all of the trees on his property.

Ellen is not initially pleased with her father's plan, as she longs for a more conventional romance, but as suitors arrive and fail to name all the trees, she becomes increasingly intrigued by the challenge. The novel follows Ellen's relationships with various suitors, as well as her growing appreciation for her father's unique passion for eucalyptus trees.

The novel is celebrated for its lyrical descriptions of the Australian landscape, as well as its themes of love, family, and the tension between tradition and modernity. It has been compared to fairy tales and fables for its whimsical and magical tone, and has been praised for its exploration of the deep connection between humans and nature.

Melbourne Australia. Text Publishing. 1998. 254p.

By Miles Franklin

"My Brilliant Career" tells the story of Sybylla, a headstrong young woman living in rural Australia in the late 19th century. She dreams of a life beyond the narrow expectations of her social class and gender, but struggles to reconcile her desire for independence with the pressure to marry and conform to traditional gender roles. The novel is noted for its vivid descriptions of the Australian landscape, as well as its frank depiction of Sybylla's rebellious spirit and the social constraints that limit her opportunities.

"My Career Goes Bung" picks up Sybylla's story several years after the events of the first novel. She has moved to the city and is working as a governess, but continues to struggle with the tension between her desire for independence and the societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles. The novel continues to explore themes of class, gender, and the limitations imposed on women in turn-of-the-century Australia, and is notable for its witty and irreverent tone.

Both novels are widely regarded as landmarks of Australian literature, and are celebrated for their feminist themes, vivid descriptions of the Australian landscape, and their pioneering portrayal of a young woman's struggle for independence and self-determination. Miles Franklin herself was a pioneering figure in Australian literature and a passionate advocate for women's rights, and the Miles Franklin Literary Award, one of Australia's most prestigious literary prizes, is named in her honor.

Sydney Australia. Harper Collins. 1901 & 1946. 448p

By Kim Scott

"That Deadman Dance" is a novel by Kim Scott, first published in 2010. The novel is set in Western Australia in the early 1800s, and tells the story of a young Noongar boy named Bobby Wabalanginy and his encounters with the first British settlers in the region.

Bobby is a curious and energetic child who is fascinated by the newcomers and their strange customs, language, and technology. He befriends several of the settlers, including the kind-hearted Dr. Cross and the ambitious Lieutenant Dan Horton, and becomes a bridge between the two cultures.

However, as the British settlers begin to establish their presence in the region, conflicts and tensions arise between them and the Noongar people, and Bobby finds himself caught in the middle. As he navigates his way through the rapidly changing landscape of his world, Bobby must confront difficult questions about identity, belonging, and the legacy of colonialism.

Australia Macmillan. 2010. 401p.

By Phillippa Gregory

London. Harper Collins. 2009. 491p.

"The Other Queen" is a historical fiction novel by Philippa Gregory, published in 2008. The book is set in 16th century England and Scotland, and tells the story of Mary, Queen of Scots, who is imprisoned by her cousin Queen Elizabeth I of England.

The novel is told from the perspective of three women: Mary, Queen of Scots; Elizabeth Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury; and Georgiana, Duchess of Bedford. Elizabeth Talbot is charged with the care of Mary during her imprisonment and becomes her confidante, while Georgiana is a friend of Elizabeth I who becomes involved in the political intrigues surrounding Mary's imprisonment.

"The Other Queen" is a richly detailed and meticulously researched work of historical fiction that offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of the powerful women who shaped 16th century England and Scotland. Gregory's prose is vivid and engaging, and her characters are complex and nuanced, with their own desires, fears, and motivations.

By Jane Shemilt

London. Penguin. 2014. 342p.

"The Daughter" is a novel by Australian author Jane Shemilt, first published in 2014. The book tells the story of a successful doctor named Jenny, whose daughter Naomi disappears one day without a trace. As Jenny searches for her daughter and tries to unravel the mystery of her disappearance, she must confront the painful secrets and hidden truths that have been simmering beneath the surface of her seemingly perfect family.

The novel is a gripping psychological thriller that explores themes of loss, grief, and the complexities of family relationships. Shemilt's skill as a writer is evident in her deft handling of the novel's multiple narrative threads, as well as her ability to create a sense of tension and unease that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

B y Tim Winton

Penguin Books. 2018. 266p.

"The Shepherd's Hut" is a novel by Australian author Tim Winton, published in 2018. The novel follows the story of Jaxie Clackton, a young Australian boy who flees his abusive father and sets out on foot into the Western Australian outback.

Jaxie's journey takes him through a harsh and unforgiving landscape, where he must fend for himself and face his own inner demons. Along the way, he encounters a mysterious old man named Fintan MacGillis, who lives alone in a remote shepherd's hut.

As Jaxie and Fintan form an unlikely bond, they both confront their pasts and grapple with questions of identity, belonging, and redemption. The novel explores themes of masculinity, violence, and the complex relationship between humans and the natural world.

Winton's prose is spare and poetic, capturing the beauty and brutality of the outback landscape and the emotional turmoil of his characters. The novel has been praised for its powerful storytelling, evocative language, and exploration of important contemporary issues.