The best 9 Australia books

Are you curious about the land Down Under? Our book list on Australia is the perfect resource for exploring the history, culture, and natural beauty of this extraordinary country. From its indigenous roots to its vibrant cities and stunning landscapes, these books offer a comprehensive look at all things Australian. Whether you're planning a trip or simply want to learn more, this collection is a must-read for anyone interested in Australia.

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1
Australia Books: A Long Way Home by Saroo Brierley

A Long Way Home

Saroo Brierley

What's A Long Way Home about?

A Long Way Home is a memoir by Saroo Brierley that tells the incredible true story of his journey from being lost in India as a young child, to being adopted by an Australian family, and finally using Google Earth to track down his birth family. It is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and the power of love.

Who should read A Long Way Home?

  • Those who are interested in true stories of resilience and determination
  • People who appreciate personal narratives that explore themes of identity and belonging
  • Readers who enjoy stories of cross-cultural experiences and the power of human connection

2
Australia Books: A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute

A Town Like Alice

Nevil Shute

What's A Town Like Alice about?

A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute is a captivating novel that tells the story of Jean Paget, a young Englishwoman who becomes a prisoner of war in Malaya during World War II. After the war, she returns to Malaya and Australia in search of a man who showed her kindness during her captivity. The book explores themes of love, resilience, and the power of community.

Who should read A Town Like Alice?

  • Readers who enjoy historical fiction set during World War II

  • Those interested in stories of resilience and overcoming adversity

  • People who appreciate well-developed characters and richly detailed settings


3
Australia Books: Cloudstreet by Tim Winton

Cloudstreet

Tim Winton

What's Cloudstreet about?

Cloudstreet is a novel by Tim Winton that follows the lives of two working-class Australian families, the Pickles and the Lambs, as they come together to live in a large house in Perth. Set against the backdrop of post-World War II Australia, the book explores themes of family, community, and the search for meaning in life. With its rich characters and evocative storytelling, Cloudstreet is a celebrated Australian classic that delves into the complexities of human existence.

Who should read Cloudstreet?

  • Readers who enjoy rich, character-driven narratives

  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of Australian society and culture

  • Individuals who appreciate lyrical and evocative writing


4
Australia Books: Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay

What's Picnic at Hanging Rock about?

Picnic at Hanging Rock is a haunting mystery novel set in 1900s Australia. When a group of schoolgirls and their teacher vanish during a picnic at the enigmatic Hanging Rock, the community is left in shock and confusion. As the search for the missing girls unfolds, dark secrets and hidden desires are revealed, leaving the reader questioning what really happened on that fateful day.

Who should read Picnic at Hanging Rock?

  • Readers who enjoy atmospheric and mysterious stories

  • Those interested in Australian literature and history

  • People who appreciate thought-provoking narratives with ambiguous endings


5
Australia Books: The Dry by Jane Harper

The Dry

Jane Harper

What's The Dry about?

The Dry by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery novel set in a small Australian town. When federal agent Aaron Falk returns to his hometown for the funeral of his childhood best friend, he gets entangled in a decades-old mystery. As he investigates the apparent murder-suicide of his friend's family, long-buried secrets and betrayals come to light. The book masterfully combines a compelling whodunit with a rich portrayal of the unforgiving Australian landscape.

Who should read The Dry?

  • Readers who enjoy atmospheric and immersive mysteries

  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of small-town dynamics

  • People who appreciate well-developed and relatable characters


What's The Harp in the South about?

The Harp in the South is a novel by Ruth Park that delves into the lives of the Darcy family, who live in the poverty-stricken area of Surry Hills in Sydney, Australia. Through vivid storytelling, Park explores the struggles and resilience of the family as they navigate the challenges of their environment while holding onto their dreams and love for each other. It is a poignant and captivating portrayal of urban life in mid-20th century Australia.

Who should read The Harp in the South?

  • Readers who enjoy Australian literature and stories set in urban environments

  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of family dynamics and relationships

  • People who appreciate rich, vivid descriptions that bring a setting to life


7
Australia Books: The Songlines by Bruce Chatwin

The Songlines

Bruce Chatwin

What's The Songlines about?

The Songlines is a fascinating exploration of Aboriginal culture and the concept of songlines, or the paths that crisscross the Australian landscape and are believed to have been sung into existence during the Dreamtime. Bruce Chatwin delves into the significance of these songlines and their role in connecting Indigenous communities to their land and spirituality. Through his travels and encounters with Aboriginal people, Chatwin offers a unique perspective on the profound connection between music, storytelling, and the natural world.

Who should read The Songlines?

  • Readers who are curious about indigenous cultures and their relationship with the land

  • Those interested in travel literature and exploring remote and exotic destinations

  • People who enjoy philosophical reflections on the nature of human existence and the search for meaning


8
Australia Books: The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough

The Thorn Birds

Colleen McCullough

What's The Thorn Birds about?

The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough is a captivating family saga set in the Australian Outback. It follows the lives of the Cleary family, particularly the forbidden love between Meggie Cleary and the ambitious priest, Father Ralph de Bricassart. Spanning decades, the novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of one's dreams.

Who should read The Thorn Birds?

  • Readers who enjoy epic family sagas spanning multiple generations

  • Those interested in complex characters and their interpersonal relationships

  • People who appreciate vivid and evocative descriptions of the Australian Outback


What's True History of the Kelly Gang about?

True History of the Kelly Gang by Peter Carey is a novel that reimagines the life of the infamous Australian outlaw, Ned Kelly. Told in the form of a journal written by Kelly himself, it offers a unique perspective on his experiences and the events that led to his notoriety. Blurring the lines between fact and fiction, this gripping book delves into the complexities of Kelly's character and the harsh realities of 19th century Australia.

Who should read True History of the Kelly Gang?

  • Readers who are interested in Australian history and the story of Ned Kelly

  • Those who enjoy literary fiction with a unique narrative style

  • People who appreciate complex and morally ambiguous characters


Related Topics

Australia Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Australia book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard A Long Way Home as the ultimate read on Australia.

What are the Top 10 Australia books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • A Long Way Home by Saroo Brierley
  • A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute
  • Cloudstreet by Tim Winton
  • Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay
  • The Dry by Jane Harper
  • The Harp in the South by Ruth Park
  • The Songlines by Bruce Chatwin
  • The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
  • True History of the Kelly Gang by Peter Carey

Who are the top Australia book authors?

When it comes to Australia, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Saroo Brierley
  • Nevil Shute
  • Tim Winton
  • Joan Lindsay
  • Jane Harper