Have no idea what books to choose as presents for loved ones or for yourself? Before you reach out for the household names and those that regularly dominate the bestseller (and even prize-winning) lists, maybe consider spreading the love a little and choosing some less well-known titles that deserve recognition. Here are some personally curated Australian books that may have been overlooked in this year’s publication schedules.
This is a novel that is utterly topical in its exploration of housing stress and millennial angst. Helen, 37, is once again single and, to sustain herself, gathers up a motley crew to share a Sydney house with her. A quasi-sequel to Max Easton’s equally arresting debut, The Magpie Wing, the ironically titled Paradise Estate tracks all manner of topics relevant to today’s reader, including capitalism, real estate, frustration and ennui.