Best Australian Books of the 21st century (The Conversation)
This is one of the 743 lists we use to generate our main The Greatest Books list.
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Praiseworthy by Alexis Wright
In the northern reaches of Australia, a small town is shrouded in a mysterious haze, signaling both an impending ecological disaster and the presence of ancestral spirits. Amidst this backdrop, a visionary man becomes obsessed with donkeys, believing they hold the key to solving the climate crisis and the economic struggles of the Aboriginal community. His wife, seeking escape from his madness, immerses herself in the dance of butterflies and searches online for ways to reconnect her Aboriginal/Chinese heritage with China. Their family is further strained by their sons: one, named Aboriginal Sovereignty, is grappling with suicidal thoughts, while the other, Tommyhawk, harbors a desire for his brother's demise to fulfill his own ambitions of power and assimilation. This narrative weaves a powerful tale of resistance and identity, exploring themes of oppression and hope in a world on the brink.
The 5346th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Carpentaria by Alexis Wright
"Carpentaria" is a sprawling and epic novel set in the fictional town of Desperance, located in the Gulf of Carpentaria in northern Australia. The story follows the lives of the powerful Phantom family, particularly the enigmatic matriarch Norm Phantom, and their interactions with the white mining company that threatens their ancestral lands. Filled with magical realism, indigenous mythology, and social commentary, the book explores themes of colonization, identity, and the struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving landscape.
The 3117th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
How To End A Story by Helen Garner
Diaries: 1995–1998
A personal, diary-like account of a woman confronting the breakdown of her marriage while trying to claim a life of her own. Living with a partner absorbed in his work, she navigates anger, loss and betrayal alongside moments of resilience, motherhood and quiet hope.
The 4376th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Questions Of Travel by Michelle de Kretser
Set against the backdrop of a rapidly globalizing world, this novel intricately weaves the lives of two disparate characters: Laura, an Australian woman who finds solace in the allure of travel, and Ravi, a Sri Lankan refugee seeking safety and belonging. As their paths cross in Sydney, the narrative explores themes of displacement, identity, and the contrasting desires for adventure and home. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the book delves into the complexities of modern travel, the impact of technology, and the universal quest for meaning and connection in an ever-changing world.
The 8172nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
That Deadman Dance by Kim Scott
Set in the early 19th century on the southwestern coast of Australia, the narrative explores the complex interactions between the indigenous Noongar people and European settlers. Through the eyes of Bobby Wabalanginy, a young Noongar man, the story unfolds with a rich tapestry of cultural exchanges, misunderstandings, and evolving relationships. As Bobby navigates the shifting dynamics of his world, themes of friendship, betrayal, and resilience emerge, painting a poignant picture of a community grappling with the encroaching forces of colonization. The novel beautifully captures the spirit of a land and its people at a pivotal moment in history.
The 7892nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
Blak Work by Alison Whittaker
Poetry and Prose
This powerful collection of poetry and prose delves into the complexities of Indigenous identity, culture, and resistance in contemporary Australia. Through a blend of personal reflection, historical insight, and sharp social commentary, the work explores themes of colonialism, systemic injustice, and resilience. The narrative voice is both intimate and defiant, offering a raw and unflinching examination of the lived experiences of Aboriginal people. The text challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths while celebrating the strength and endurance of Indigenous communities.
The 9781st Greatest Book of All Time -
Breakfast At Midnight by Louis Armand
Set against the backdrop of a noir-infused Prague, this gripping narrative follows a disillusioned detective as he navigates a labyrinth of crime, corruption, and existential despair. The story unfolds in a city shrouded in mystery and darkness, where the line between reality and hallucination blurs. As the protagonist delves deeper into the underbelly of the city, he encounters a cast of enigmatic characters, each with their own secrets and motives. The novel explores themes of identity, memory, and the haunting nature of the past, creating a tense and atmospheric journey through a world where nothing is as it seems.
The 8737th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
The Tribe by Michael Mohammed Ahmad
Set in the culturally rich and vibrant suburbs of Sydney, this narrative delves into the life of a young boy growing up within a Lebanese-Australian family. Through his eyes, readers are introduced to a tapestry of familial relationships, traditions, and the challenges of navigating identity in a multicultural society. The story captures the essence of community and belonging, while also exploring the complexities of familial expectations and the struggle to find one's own path amidst the pressures of heritage and modernity.
The 9045th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
West Girls by Laura Elizabeth Woollett
Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1980s Los Angeles, the narrative follows the intertwined lives of a group of young women navigating the complexities of friendship, ambition, and identity. As they chase their dreams in a city teeming with opportunity and danger, they grapple with the pressures of societal expectations and personal desires. Through their shared experiences, the women confront the challenges of love, betrayal, and self-discovery, ultimately seeking to define their own paths in a world that often tries to dictate them.
The 10848th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Axiomatic by Maria Tumarkin
Essays on History, Memory and Trauma
In this thought-provoking collection, the author delves into the complexities of human experience through a series of essays that challenge conventional wisdom and explore the nuances of memory, trauma, and the passage of time. Each essay is a deep dive into the axioms that shape our understanding of the world, questioning their validity and examining the impact they have on our lives. With a blend of personal reflection, historical analysis, and philosophical inquiry, the narrative weaves together stories that are both intimate and universal, inviting readers to reconsider the truths they hold dear.
The 9781st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Salute by Ken Bolton
Set against the backdrop of a vibrant urban landscape, this narrative explores the intricate tapestry of human relationships and the subtle nuances of everyday life. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, the story delves into the lives of a diverse cast of characters, each grappling with their own personal dilemmas and aspirations. The prose is both reflective and engaging, capturing the essence of contemporary existence with wit and empathy. As the characters navigate their individual journeys, themes of identity, connection, and the passage of time are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the narrative, offering readers a poignant glimpse into the human experience.
The 10987th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Their Brilliant Careers by Ryan O’Neill
Invented Lives of 16 Extraordinary Australian Writers
This inventive and satirical novel presents a collection of fictional biographies of twelve Australian writers, each with their own eccentricities and peculiarities. Through a blend of humor and wit, the narrative explores the absurdities of the literary world, weaving together tales of ambition, rivalry, and the often bizarre paths to fame. The stories are interconnected, creating a tapestry of interlinked lives that reflect on the nature of storytelling and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. With its clever parody of literary biographies, the book offers a playful yet insightful commentary on the pursuit of artistic success.
The 9353rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
The 13 Storey Treehouse by Andy Griffiths
None
In a whimsical world of imagination and adventure, two friends, Andy and Terry, live in an extraordinary treehouse that boasts 13 fantastical levels, each filled with unique and quirky features like a bowling alley, a see-through swimming pool, and a marshmallow machine. As they navigate their daily lives filled with creative chaos, they face the challenge of writing a book, all while dealing with unexpected visitors, mischievous monkeys, and a series of hilarious mishaps. Their journey is a delightful blend of humor and creativity, capturing the essence of childhood wonder and friendship.
The 8613th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Into The Woods by Anna Krien
The Battle for Tasmania's Forests
Set against the backdrop of Tasmania's ancient forests, this compelling narrative delves into the intricate and often contentious relationship between environmental conservation and the logging industry. Through a blend of investigative journalism and personal reflection, the story explores the passionate and sometimes volatile clashes between activists, industry workers, and local communities. It paints a vivid picture of the complex socio-political landscape, highlighting the deep-rooted tensions and the quest for balance between economic interests and preserving natural heritage. The narrative is both a poignant exploration of human nature and a call to action for sustainable practices.
The 8501st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
The Animals In That Country by Laura Jean McKay
"The Animals In That Country" by Laura Jean McKay is a gripping and thought-provoking novel set in a near-future Australia. The story follows Jean, a foul-mouthed and alcoholic grandmother, who discovers she has the ability to understand the language of animals after contracting a mysterious virus. As a deadly pandemic spreads across the country, Jean embarks on a journey with a dingo named Sue to find her pregnant daughter and escape the chaos. McKay skillfully explores themes of communication, human-animal relationships, and the fragile nature of society, creating a compelling narrative that challenges our perception of the world around us.
The 5453rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Another Day In The Colony by Chelsea Watego
Writings on Race, Survival, and Resistance
This compelling narrative delves into the lived experiences of Indigenous Australians, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective on the systemic racism and colonial legacies that persist in contemporary society. Through a series of poignant essays, the author challenges the dominant narratives and exposes the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities, while also celebrating their resilience and strength. The work serves as both a critique of the colonial structures that continue to oppress and a call to action for genuine change and reconciliation.
The 10357th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Collected Poems by Les A. Murray
This anthology brings together a vast array of poems that delve into the intricacies of the human experience, exploring themes of nature, identity, and the passage of time. With a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of the Australian landscape, the collection captures the essence of rural life and the beauty of the natural world. The poems are imbued with a sense of wonder and introspection, offering readers a glimpse into the poet's unique perspective on life's complexities and the interconnectedness of all things.
The 6531st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
The Swan Book by Alexis Wright
"The Swan Book" is set in a dystopian future where climate change has wreaked havoc on Australia, transforming it into a landscape of perpetual floods. The story centers around Oblivia Ethylene, a mute and traumatized Aboriginal girl who is found living in a wrecked ship grounded in a tree. She is taken under the wing of Bella Donna, a European woman who marries the first Aboriginal president of Australia. The narrative weaves elements of Aboriginal mythology, environmental disaster, and the political struggles of indigenous peoples, exploring themes of displacement, identity, and resilience.
The 4654th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Change Machine by Jaya Savige
Poems
In this evocative collection of poetry, the author explores the intricate dance between tradition and modernity, weaving together themes of identity, memory, and transformation. The poems traverse diverse landscapes, both physical and emotional, capturing the essence of change as an omnipresent force in life. With a keen eye for detail and a lyrical touch, the work delves into the complexities of human experience, offering readers a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the ever-evolving nature of self and society.
The 10116th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
Panthers And The Museum Of Fire by Jen Craig
In this introspective narrative, a woman embarks on a contemplative journey through the streets of Sydney, carrying a manuscript written by a deceased friend. As she navigates the city, her thoughts meander through memories, reflections on her own life, and the complexities of human relationships. The story unfolds in a stream-of-consciousness style, capturing the protagonist's inner dialogue and the subtle interplay between past and present, reality and imagination, as she grapples with themes of identity, loss, and the search for meaning.
The 9215th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Tiger Daughter by Rebecca Lim
Set against the backdrop of a multicultural Australian suburb, this poignant coming-of-age story follows the journey of a young Chinese-Australian girl who grapples with the pressures of familial expectations and cultural identity. As she navigates the challenges of adolescence, she forms a deep friendship with a fellow student who faces his own struggles. Together, they confront the harsh realities of racism, academic pressure, and the pursuit of personal dreams, ultimately finding strength and resilience in their shared experiences and aspirations for a brighter future.
The 10357th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
The Airways by Jennifer Mills
Set against the backdrop of bustling Beijing, this haunting narrative weaves together the lives of two strangers, entwined by an inexplicable connection that transcends time and space. As they navigate the city's vibrant streets and hidden corners, the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur, revealing a world where the past and present collide. Through a series of mysterious encounters and eerie revelations, the story explores themes of identity, memory, and the unseen forces that shape our lives, leaving readers questioning the nature of existence and the invisible threads that bind us all.
The 10357th Greatest Book of All Time -
Moral Hazard by Kate Jennings
Set against the backdrop of the high-stakes world of Wall Street, this poignant narrative delves into the life of a woman navigating the complexities of corporate finance while grappling with personal turmoil. As she balances the demands of her high-pressure job, she is also faced with the heart-wrenching challenge of caring for her husband, who is suffering from a debilitating illness. The story explores themes of love, loyalty, and the moral dilemmas that arise when personal and professional worlds collide, offering a profound reflection on the sacrifices made in the pursuit of success and the true cost of ambition.
The 7693rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
The Night Guest by Fiona McFarlane
In a remote coastal town in Australia, an elderly widow named Ruth finds her solitary life disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious woman claiming to be a government caregiver. As Ruth grapples with the shadows of her past and the haunting presence of a tiger she believes prowls her home at night, the line between reality and imagination blurs. The story explores themes of aging, memory, and the vulnerability that comes with isolation, weaving a suspenseful narrative that questions the nature of trust and the boundaries of sanity.
The 8893rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Anam by André Dao
Set against the backdrop of a family's migration from Vietnam to Australia, this poignant narrative weaves together the threads of memory, identity, and belonging. Through the lens of multiple generations, the story delves into the complexities of cultural displacement and the enduring ties to one's homeland. As the characters navigate their new lives, they grapple with the haunting echoes of the past and the challenges of forging a future in a foreign land. The narrative beautifully captures the nuances of familial bonds and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The 10848th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Madukka The River Serpent by Julie Janson
Set against the backdrop of Australia's rugged landscapes, this compelling narrative follows the journey of a young Aboriginal woman who grapples with her identity and heritage. As she navigates the complexities of modern life, she is drawn into a mystical connection with an ancient river serpent, a symbol of her people's enduring spirit and wisdom. Through her quest for self-discovery, the story explores themes of cultural resilience, the power of ancestral ties, and the profound relationship between humans and nature.
The 10589th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
The Shepherd's Hut by Tim Winton
Set against the stark and unforgiving landscape of Western Australia, this gripping novel follows the journey of a troubled teenage boy, Jaxie Clackton, who flees his abusive home after a tragic incident. As he ventures into the desolate outback, Jaxie is driven by a desperate hope for freedom and a longing to reunite with the one person he loves. Along the way, he encounters an unlikely ally in an isolated hermit, whose own past is shrouded in mystery. Together, they navigate the harsh terrain and confront the demons of their pasts, forging a bond that challenges their understanding of trust, redemption, and survival in a world that seems intent on breaking them.
The 9781st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
The Secret River by Kate Grenville
"The Secret River" is a historical novel that explores the life of William Thornhill, a convict from London who is deported to Australia in the early 19th century. After serving his sentence, Thornhill stakes a claim on a stretch of land along the Hawkesbury River, where he and his family attempt to establish a new life. However, their presence leads to tension and brutal conflict with the Aboriginal people who have lived on the land for generations. The novel delves into themes of colonization, survival, and the moral complexities of claiming ownership in a new world, providing a poignant look at the personal and cultural consequences of European settlement in Australia.
The 3058th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Rogue Forces by Mark Willacy
An Explosive Insider's Account of Australian SAS War Crimes in Afghanistan
Set against the backdrop of the Afghanistan war, this gripping narrative delves into the harrowing accounts of Australian Special Forces soldiers accused of committing war crimes. Through meticulous research and firsthand testimonies, the book unveils the dark underbelly of military operations, exploring themes of power, accountability, and the psychological toll of warfare. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the moral complexities faced by soldiers on the battlefield and the systemic failures that allowed such actions to occur.
The 10357th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
A Fraction Of The Whole by Steve Toltz
In this sprawling, darkly comedic novel, readers are taken on a whirlwind journey through the tumultuous lives of a father and son duo, Jasper and Martin Dean. Set against the backdrop of Australia, the narrative delves into themes of family dysfunction, existential musings, and the quest for meaning in a chaotic world. Through a series of misadventures, philosophical debates, and poignant reflections, the story explores the complexities of identity, legacy, and the often absurd nature of human existence, all while maintaining a sharp wit and a keen eye for the absurdities of life.
The 6667th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
No Friend But The Mountains by Behrouz Boochani
Writing from Manus Prison
This poignant memoir offers a harrowing account of life inside Australia's offshore detention centers, as experienced by a Kurdish-Iranian asylum seeker. Written in secret and smuggled out via text messages, the narrative vividly captures the dehumanizing conditions, relentless struggles, and profound resilience of those trapped in a system designed to break their spirits. Through evocative prose and raw emotion, the author sheds light on the broader issues of displacement, identity, and the universal quest for freedom, challenging readers to confront the moral complexities of immigration policies.
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The Vitals by Tracy Sorensen
Set against the backdrop of a small Australian town, this compelling narrative delves into the intertwined lives of its residents, exploring themes of love, loss, and the search for identity. The story unfolds through the eyes of multiple characters, each grappling with their own secrets and desires, as they navigate the complexities of family dynamics and personal growth. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human emotions, the narrative weaves a rich tapestry of interconnected stories that reveal the universal struggles of finding one's place in the world.
The 10848th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Pole And Other Stories by J. M. Coetzee
In this collection of stories, the narrative explores the intricate tapestry of human relationships, delving into themes of love, longing, and the complexities of human connection. Each story is a poignant reflection on the inner lives of its characters, revealing their vulnerabilities and desires as they navigate the challenges of their personal and social worlds. The prose is both lyrical and incisive, capturing the subtle nuances of emotion and the often unspoken tensions that define human interactions. Through these tales, readers are invited to ponder the profound and sometimes unsettling truths about the human condition.
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The Sun Walks Down by Fiona McFarlane
Set against the backdrop of the Australian outback in the late 19th century, this evocative novel unfolds the mysterious disappearance of a young boy named Denny. As the community rallies to search for him, the narrative weaves through the lives of various townspeople, revealing their hidden fears, desires, and secrets. The harsh and unforgiving landscape becomes a character in itself, reflecting the inner turmoil and resilience of those who inhabit it. Through a tapestry of perspectives, the story explores themes of loss, belonging, and the intricate connections that bind individuals to each other and to the land.
The 9030th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Rules Of Summer by Shaun Tan
"Rules of Summer" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking picture book that explores the complex relationship between two young boys during their summer vacation. Through a series of surreal and imaginative illustrations, the book delves into themes of friendship, power dynamics, and the unspoken rules that govern their interactions. With its rich imagery and open-ended narrative, "Rules of Summer" invites readers to reflect on the nuances of human relationships and the lessons learned during the season of growth and change.
The 4534th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Alec: The Years Have Pants by Eddie Campbell
A Life-Sized Omnibus
This graphic novel is a semi-autobiographical exploration of the author's life, capturing the essence of his journey from youthful exuberance to the reflective wisdom of middle age. Through a series of vignettes, it delves into the complexities of relationships, the pursuit of artistic endeavors, and the inevitable passage of time. The narrative is both humorous and poignant, offering a candid portrayal of the trials and triumphs that shape one's identity over the years. With its unique blend of wit and introspection, it paints a vivid picture of the human experience, inviting readers to reflect on their own life's journey.
The 8281st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Kayang And Me by Kim Scott
A Collaborative Memoir
This compelling narrative intertwines the personal and cultural journey of an Aboriginal family in Australia, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and reconciliation. Through a blend of memoir and historical reflection, the story delves into the rich tapestry of Indigenous life, revealing the profound connections between past and present. It highlights the resilience and strength of a community striving to preserve its traditions while navigating the complexities of modern society. The narrative is a heartfelt tribute to the enduring spirit of a people and the power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster understanding.
The 7961st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
A Million Windows by Gerald Murnane
In this intricate and introspective novel, the narrative unfolds within a fictional landscape where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur. The story delves into the lives of writers and their creations, exploring the complex interplay between the observer and the observed. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, the text meditates on themes of perception, memory, and the nature of storytelling itself. The prose is rich and layered, inviting readers to ponder the myriad ways in which stories are constructed and the elusive nature of truth within the literary realm.
The 9045th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Human Looking by Andy Jackson
Poems
In this evocative collection of poetry, the author delves into the complexities of identity, perception, and the human experience through the lens of disability and difference. The poems explore the nuanced interplay between the way individuals see themselves and how they are perceived by others, weaving a tapestry of introspection, empathy, and resilience. With vivid imagery and poignant reflections, the work invites readers to confront their own biases and embrace the beauty of diversity in all its forms.
The 10357th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
Landscape Of Farewell by Alex Miller
In this poignant narrative, an elderly German academic, grieving the loss of his wife, embarks on a journey to Australia, where he forms an unexpected bond with a charismatic Aboriginal elder. As they delve into the complexities of their respective pasts, the story explores themes of reconciliation, memory, and the enduring impact of history. Through their shared experiences, the characters confront personal and collective traumas, ultimately finding solace and understanding in the vast, untamed landscapes that mirror their emotional journeys.
The 8197th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Natural Way Of Things by Charlotte Wood
In a remote, desolate compound, ten women find themselves imprisoned without explanation, their heads shaved and identities stripped away. As they grapple with the harsh conditions and the oppressive regime of their captors, the women slowly uncover the dark truth behind their captivity, revealing a chilling commentary on societal misogyny and the silencing of female voices. Amidst the brutality, bonds of solidarity and resilience form, highlighting the indomitable spirit of women in the face of dehumanizing adversity. This haunting narrative weaves a tale of survival, resistance, and the quest for freedom in a world that seeks to erase them.
The 9215th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
Sourdough And Other Stories by Angela Slatter
In a world where the boundaries between reality and myth blur, this collection of interconnected tales weaves a tapestry of dark enchantment and haunting beauty. Each story explores themes of transformation, desire, and the supernatural, set against a backdrop of richly imagined landscapes. Characters navigate through a realm where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, encountering mysterious creatures, ancient curses, and the echoes of forgotten lore. With a lyrical prose style, the narrative delves into the depths of human emotion and the shadows of the unknown, inviting readers to lose themselves in a realm where magic and reality intertwine.
The 8501st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
Songspirals by Gay'wu Group of Women
Sharing Women's Wisdom of Country through Songlines
This book offers a profound exploration of the Yolŋu women's deep connection to their land, culture, and spirituality through the lens of their sacred songlines. It delves into the intricate relationship between the natural world and the spiritual realm, as experienced and expressed by these Indigenous women. Through their voices, readers are invited to understand the significance of songspirals, which are not just songs but living entities that guide, heal, and sustain their community. The narrative is a heartfelt invitation to appreciate the wisdom and resilience embedded in Yolŋu traditions, offering a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of life.
The 9936th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
The Conversation, 43 Books
As no Australian works appeared in the New York Times list of the Best Books of the 21st century the Conversation took action: "The Conversation’s Books & Ideas team, seeking to right a wrong (and just very curious), asked 50 Australian literary experts to each share their favourite Australian books of this century"
All the experts are named and also give a synopsis on their choices.
Actual number of works came to 43 as a couple of books were chosen more than once.
This list was originally published in 2024 and was added to this site over 1 year ago.
This list has a weight of 56%. To learn more about what this means please visit the Rankings page.
Here is a list of what is decreasing the importance of this list:
- List: only covers 1 specific country
- List: only covers 25 years
- Voters: are mostly from a single country/location
If you think this is incorrect please contact us.
- Number of Voters:
- 50
- Voter Count Unknown:
- No
- Voter Names Unknown:
- No
- High Quality Source:
- No
- Location Specific:
- Yes
- Category Specific:
- No