Australian authors recommend

Australian creators tell us the most recent book they have read and loved, and why.

Anton Clifford-Motopi is the debut author of the novel To and Fro (Allen & Unwin Children, March), ‘a heartfelt and humorous exploration of the complexities of growing up mixed-race’:

‘I recently finished reading What About Thao? by Oliver Phommavanh. I loved the portrayal of everyday life in a small country town and the likeable and relatable cast of characters. The book gave me a warm feeling that I was visiting Megulla and getting to know some of the locals. But most of all, I loved the relationship between Thao and Kadir and how, in helping Kadir feel at home in Megulla, Thao learned much more about himself.’

Victoria Carless, whose latest novel, Lani and the Universe, was published by HarperCollins in January, has written for middle-grade readers and young adults, and been nominated for the Queensland Literary Awards and the Children’s Book Council of Australia Awards:  

‘I just finished Millie Mak the Maker. It is a beautiful package of a book, with the gentle family story of resilience crafted by Alice Pung and with gorgeous illustrations by Sher Rill Ng. I love that Millie’s superpower is making special pieces as gifts from discarded objects. It took me several days to sew a few scrunchies earlier this year when I tried to teach my daughter the basics. (I am definitely not a sewer.) Thank goodness for Millie Mak the Maker, who, through creativity and resourcefulness, shows us how it is done. If only I’d read this book first.’

Pictured L–R: Anton Clifford-Motopi, Victoria Carless.

Category: Think Australian newsletter Think Australian profile