Major Political Biographies Dominate Australian Publishing Scene
Australian political enthusiasts have significant new reading material to digest this November, with two weighty releases from HarperCollins commanding attention. Troy Bramston's 'Gough Whitlam: The Vista of the New' arrives as a comprehensive biography marking fifty years since one of Australia's most dramatic political moments, while former prime minister Tony Abbott's 'Australia: A History' offers his perspective on the nation's story.
Definitive Whitlam Biography Draws on Fresh Sources
Bramston's work stands as the first full-length account of Whitlam's life since his death in 2014, drawing extensively on previously unused documents to create what reviewers are calling a 'mighty doorstopper' of a biography. The timing is particularly significant, with November 11 marking both the end of World War I and the 50th anniversary of the cataclysmic dismissal of the Whitlam government by Sir John Kerr.
The book arrives as Australia reflects on that historic moment when Whitlam stood before Parliament House and delivered his memorable speech beginning with: 'Ladies and gentlemen, well may we say 'God save the Queen', because nothing will save the Governor-General.' Priced at $55.00, this weighty yet readable account promises fresh insights into one of Australia's most transformative political figures.
Abbott's Positive Take on Australian History
Meanwhile, Tony Abbott has entered the historical arena with his own volume, 'Australia: A History', which he describes as an antidote to what he terms the 'black armband' view of Australian history. The former prime minister concedes his approach won't appeal to everyone but traces Australia's story from the First Fleet to the recent Voice referendum.
'This book is intended to give anyone interested ... an account of our past that's positive, while not oblivious to our mistakes and imperfections as a nation,' Abbott writes. 'If, with all things considered, to be an Australian is still to have won the lottery of life, the history that's produced us is something to savour.' Available for $49.99, the book represents Abbott's vision of national storytelling.
Notable Non-Fiction and Fiction Releases
Beyond the political heavyweights, November brings several other significant releases across genres, from financial guidance to historical fiction and gripping thrillers.
Financial Planning for Retirement
Financial adviser James Wrigley offers practical guidance in 'Retire Life Ready' ($34.95), addressing the complexities of retirement planning that extend far beyond simply stopping work. The book covers maximizing income, superannuation, investments, and navigating potential pitfalls in the system, while also addressing debts, tax, pensions, and aged care considerations.
Posthumous Memoir from Epstein Accuser
In a timely release, Virginia Roberts Giuffre's memoir 'Nobody's Girl' ($36.99) appears posthumously after her death in April this year. The book details how she was drawn into the web of serial sex abusers Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, her encounter with Prince Andrew, and how she became one of the most outspoken victims of Epstein's crimes. The publication coincides with the Duke of York's removal from royal duties.
Fiction Favourites Deliver New Thrills
Fiction lovers have plenty to choose from, beginning with Lee and Andrew Child's latest Jack Reacher novel 'Exit Strategy' ($34.99), which finds the itinerant ex-military policeman in Baltimore where he discovers a handwritten plea for help that pulls him into another violent confrontation.
Paullina Simons, author of The Bronze Horseman, returns with 'The Bell and the Blade' ($34.99), a World War II-era historical romance following Allied soldiers and female freedom fighters led by Charlotte Fontaine as they're hunted by a relentless German officer.
Australian author Tea Cooper presents 'The Tangled Web' ($34.99), a historical mystery set in 1892 where a young woman investigates her brother's death and uncovers terrible cruelties committed in the name of medical science.
Finally, 'The Last Love Song' ($34.99) sees Lucinda Riley's early work (originally published as 'Losing You' under the name Lucinda Edmonds in 1997) reworked and revived by her son, Harry Whittaker, offering a compelling story of love and loss set in rural Ireland and 1960s London.
Australian Readers Spoiled for Choice
With this diverse range of new releases, Australian readers have substantial options for their summer reading lists. The political biographies in particular offer contrasting perspectives on Australian history and leadership, while the fiction selections provide everything from pulse-pounding action to intricate historical mysteries. As the publishing industry continues to recover from pandemic disruptions, this robust November list suggests strong momentum heading into the holiday season.
