June is shaping up to be a month of diverse literary offerings in Australia, with a range of books that promise to captivate and provoke thought. From gripping thrillers to thought-provoking non-fiction, and an unusual debut novel, here's a look at some of the most intriguing releases this month.
Night Swimming by Sharon Kernot
This novel is a compelling thriller-in-verse that delves into the haunting past of its protagonist, Clare. As a teenager, Clare was present when her best friend, Julie, drowned, an event that continues to haunt her into adulthood. Now, in her 40s, Clare finds herself grappling with insomnia, alcohol, and sedatives, her life drifting into a haze. When she encounters an older man who was also at the scene of the tragedy, she sees an opportunity to revisit the past. The novel's final pages reveal Clare's purpose, leaving readers with a sense of intrigue and a deeper understanding of the impact of trauma.
How to Love the World by Ilka Tampke
This novel takes readers on a suspenseful journey through the life of Nellika, a woman who finds herself trapped under a falling bough in a forest. As she grapples with her own mortality, she reflects on her life's arc and the complexities of living in a place with no ancestral connection. The book explores themes of survival, family history, and the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world, particularly the forest. It's an ambitious work that draws on the forest's arboreal intelligence to frame urgent questions about our place in the world.
Wormhole: My Journey into the Dark Heart of Alternative Medicine by Hannah McElhinney
McElhinney's book is a gripping true-crime exploration of the wellness wormhole her cousin fell into after years of struggling with chronic health conditions. With deep empathy and a firm eye on the science, McElhinney unravels the reasons why people with undiagnosed conditions are vulnerable to dangerous health conspiracies. The book serves as a warning and an educational guide, helping readers understand the dangers of alternative medicine and the importance of evidence-based healthcare.
The Northern Tomb by Isabelle Li
This novel is a captivating exploration of Chinese history and the complexities of human relationships. Set during the COVID-19 lockdowns, it follows Mr. Zhao, an elderly widower, and his relationship with his pragmatic carer, Sister Fu. The story spans 80 years of Chinese history, delving into wars, politics, and traditional life. Told from multiple perspectives, including that of Zhao's son, the novel reveals the vast gap between how each character perceives themselves and the impact they have on others. It's a quiet and melancholic tale that belies hidden depths and offers a unique insight into the Chinese experience.
Smoke, Rice, Water by Kishwar Chowdhury
Chowdhury's cookbook is a celebration of Bengali food culture through an Australian lens. The book takes readers on a journey through the rich history of Bengal cuisine, from the influence of the Nawabs and Mughals to the joys of Bangla-Chinese food. The title, 'Smoke, Rice, Water,' is a reference to a modern riff on panta bhat, a traditional Bengali breakfast dish. Chowdhury's book is a beautiful exploration of cultural heritage and a must-have for anyone interested in diverse culinary traditions.
No God But Us by Bobuq Sayed
This debut novel has generated significant buzz, and for good reason. Set backstage at a drag bar in Washington DC, it tells the tale of two queer Afghan men in exile. Delbar, newly outed, is moving east, while Mansur, unable to live freely in Tehran, is heading west towards Europe. Their paths cross in Istanbul, and the novel explores the complexities of their lives and the challenges they face in a world of borders. The story is a powerful and timely narrative, offering a glimpse into the lives of queer individuals in exile and the struggles they endure.
At Sea by Yassmin Abdel-Magied
Abdel-Magied's first adult fiction novel is a thrilling narrative that draws on her own experience as a mechanical engineer on an offshore oil rig for Shell. It follows Zainab, an expert driller, who takes charge of a failing rig staffed by an all-male crew. The novel explores the challenges faced by a young Black Muslim woman in a hostile workplace and the urgent need for change. With a pacy and suspenseful style, Abdel-Magied creates a gripping read that highlights the importance of diversity and representation in the workplace.
Krank Fuss by Andrew Upton
Upton's debut novel is a unique and allegorical work that explores the world through the eyes of a chicken with a disfigured foot. Set in a small farm in Bavaria during the Second World War, the novel was written by a traumatized First World War veteran for his unborn daughter and found in a briefcase after her death. The story follows the chicken, Krank Fuss, and her friend Gibby, a philosophical toad, as they navigate a brutish world. Upton's writing is layered and beautifully crafted, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the natural world and its relationship with humanity.
Angertainment by Ed Coper
Coper's treatise on the new type of power shaping our political and cultural debates is a compelling read. The book introduces the concept of Angertainment, which describes the ways in which our natural human inclinations towards anger are harnessed in the attention economy. Coper provides a framework to understand these forces and offers insights on how we might fight against them. This book is a thought-provoking exploration of the power dynamics at play in our society and the impact of entertainment on our political landscape.
