Step into a world of diverse landscapes, intriguing cultures, and rich narratives with these books about Australia. From the arid outback to the lush rainforests, and from the bustling cities to the remote coastal towns, Australia’s vast and varied expanse has inspired countless authors to capture its essence in prose and poetry.
These books about Australia offer a gateway to a land that is as complex as it is captivating, a place where ancient Indigenous stories intertwine with modern tales of exploration, resilience, and the human spirit.
Books About Australia
Authors note: I grew up in Australia as a young child and have great memories from there. As an adult, I have read many books about Australia to inspire me one day to visit again.
There are random pics of Australia spread throughout to give a sense of place.
In a Sunburned Country (Bill Bryson)
This is easily my favourite of these books about Australia and by one of my favourite travel writers.
It’s a travel memoir that takes readers on a humorous and insightful journey through the vast and diverse landscapes of Australia.
With his signature wit and keen observations, Bryson shares his experiences as he explores this unique continent, its quirky wildlife, and its captivating cities. From encounters with dangerous creatures like snakes and spiders to encounters with friendly locals, Bryson offers a blend of facts, anecdotes, and personal reflections that bring Australia to life on the page.
With a mix of historical tidbits, cultural insights, and Bryson’s own humorous misadventures, “In a Sunburned Country” is a charming and engaging exploration of the land Down Under.
The Thorn Birds (Colleen McCullough)
This is a sweeping epic that weaves together the lives of the Cleary family against the backdrop of the Australian outback. Set in the arid landscape of Drogheda, a vast sheep station in the fictional town of Gillyan, the novel follows three generations as they navigate love, ambition, and personal struggles.
At the centre of the story is Meggie Cleary, whose love for the charismatic and forbidden priest, Father Ralph de Bricassart, sets the stage for a tale of passion, sacrifice, and the enduring power of forbidden love. Spanning decades and capturing the essence of Australia’s rugged beauty, “The Thorn Birds” is a captivating exploration of human desires, family dynamics, and the often complex relationship between people and the land they call home.
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Tracks (Robyn Davidson)
“Tracks” by Robyn Davidson is a captivating memoir that chronicles the remarkable journey of the author across the vast deserts of Australia. In the late 1970s, Davidson embarked on an audacious adventure: a solo trek of over 1,700 miles across the harsh Australian outback, from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean.
Accompanied by four camels and her loyal dog, Davidson navigated the challenging terrain and faced the extreme elements of the desert, all while coming to terms with her own personal demons and seeking a deeper connection to nature.
“Tracks” is a compelling account of Davidson’s physical and emotional trials during her epic journey. The book offers a profound exploration of solitude, resilience, and the deep spiritual connection between humans and the natural world.
Davidson’s vivid descriptions of the landscape, her interactions with Indigenous communities, and her introspective musings make Tracks one of the best books about Australia.
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Picnic at Hanging Rock (Joan Lindsay)
“Picnic at Hanging Rock” by Joan Lindsay is a haunting and enigmatic novel that explores the mysterious disappearance of a group of schoolgirls during a Valentine’s Day picnic at the enigmatic Hanging Rock, a distinctive geological formation in rural Australia.
Set in 1900, the story unfolds in the wake of the girls’ disappearance, delving into the eerie atmosphere that shrouds the event and the impact it has on the lives of the people connected to the school.
Lindsay’s evocative writing captures the mesmerizing beauty of the Australian landscape while also delving into the complexities of human psychology and the tensions within the cloistered Victorian-era society.
The novel’s blend of suspense, Gothic undertones, and dreamlike quality creates an atmosphere of unease and mystery that lingers throughout the narrative.
The Fatal Shore: The Epic of Australia’s Founding (Robert Hughes)
“The Fatal Shore: The Epic of Australia’s Founding” by Robert Hughes is a monumental work of historical narrative that vividly examines the tumultuous and often brutal history of the founding of Australia as a British penal colony.
With meticulous research and eloquent prose, Hughes provides a comprehensive account of the convict transportation system, exploring the lives of the thousands of men and women who were transported to the harsh shores of Australia in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Through extensive documentation and compelling storytelling, Hughes delves into the social, political, and economic forces that led to the establishment of the penal colony and the transformation of a harsh and unfamiliar landscape into a nation. He exposes the brutal treatment of convicts, the challenges of survival in a harsh environment, and the complex interactions between the colonizers and the Indigenous peoples.
Out of all these books about Australia, this book stands as a magisterial work that offers readers an in-depth understanding of the complexities of Australia’s colonial past and the enduring legacy of those formative years.
Get The Fatal Shore: The Epic of Australia’s Founding.
Cloudstreet (Tim Winton)
“Cloudstreet” by Tim Winton is a masterful novel that weaves together the lives of two very different families in post-World War II Perth, Western Australia. The Pickles and the Lambs, brought together by circumstance, share a large, dilapidated house on Cloud Street.
As they navigate the challenges and triumphs of everyday life, Winton explores themes of family, identity, fate, and the search for meaning.
Set against the backdrop of a changing Australia, “Cloudstreet” captures the essence of the country’s landscape and cultural shifts. The novel delves into the personal struggles of its characters, each with their own secrets, dreams, and desires.
With lyrical prose and a touch of magical realism, Winton crafts a rich tapestry of interconnected stories that resonate with universal themes of love, loss, and the search for a place to belong.
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Follow The Rabbit-Proof Fence (Doris Pilkington)
“Follow The Rabbit-Proof Fence” is a powerful and heart-wrenching true story that follows the journey of three Aboriginal girls who escape from a government-run settlement in Australia and embark on an incredible journey home.
Set in the 1930s, during a period of forced assimilation and cultural displacement, the story sheds light on the harsh policies that separated Indigenous children from their families in an attempt to assimilate them into white society.
Molly, Gracie, and Daisy, the main characters in the book, traverse the vast Australian outback, following the rabbit-proof fence—a fence designed to keep rabbits out of farming areas. Their journey covers hundreds of miles, and as they navigate the challenging terrain, they face hunger, danger, and the constant threat of being recaptured by authorities.
Doris Pilkington, the daughter of Molly, one of the girls in the story, skillfully portrays the strength, resilience, and determination of these young girls as they reclaim their culture and fight for their freedom.
Get Follow The Rabbit-Proof Fence.
My Brilliant Career (Miles Franklin)
“My Brilliant Career” by Miles Franklin is a classic Australian novel that follows the life and aspirations of the spirited young protagonist, Sybylla Melvyn. Set in rural New South Wales during the late 19th century, the novel provides a glimpse into the challenges and limitations faced by a young woman with aspirations beyond the traditional roles prescribed by society.
Sybylla’s candid narrative offers readers a window into her thoughts, dreams, and struggles as she navigates the expectations placed upon her as a woman. Torn between her desire for independence and her family’s financial difficulties, she grapples with societal norms, love interests, and the pursuit of her own passions.
The novel presents a vivid depiction of the Australian landscape, its rural communities, and the contrasting ideals of the time. Miles Franklin’s writing is marked by its wit, humour, and insightful commentary on gender roles and social conventions.
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The Narrow Road to the Deep North (Richard Flanagan)
“The Narrow Road to the Deep North” by Richard Flanagan is a powerful and emotionally resonant novel that explores the harrowing experiences of Australian prisoners of war during World War II, particularly those who were forced to work on the Thai-Burma Death Railway.
The story centres on Dorrigo Evans, an Australian surgeon who becomes a commanding officer and faces the challenges of leading his fellow prisoners through brutal conditions.
Flanagan’s narrative weaves together different perspectives, jumping between different timelines and characters’ viewpoints. The title of the book references a famous haiku by the Japanese poet Bashō, and it serves as a metaphor for the deep introspective journey that the characters undertake in the midst of the horrors of war.
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The Secret River (Kate Grenville)
“The Secret River” by Kate Grenville is a thought-provoking historical novel that delves into the complex and often fraught relationship between the European settlers and the Indigenous peoples of Australia during the 19th century. Set in the early days of British colonization, the novel follows the life of William Thornhill, a former convict who is granted a parcel of land along the Hawkesbury River in New South Wales.
As Thornhill and his family attempt to establish a new life on the land, they come into contact with the local Dharug people, leading to a series of cultural clashes, misunderstandings, and conflicts. The novel explores themes of colonization, identity, belonging, and the consequences of claiming land that was already inhabited by Indigenous communities.
Grenville’s narrative skillfully navigates the complexities of the character’s motivations and the ethical dilemmas they face. Through her vivid descriptions and well-drawn characters, she brings to life the challenges and choices that shaped the early days of settlement.
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True History of the Kelly Gang (Peter Carey)
“True History of the Kelly Gang” by Peter Carey is a compelling and imaginative novel that reimagines the life and legacy of one of Australia’s most notorious figures, the outlaw Ned Kelly. Presented as a fictional autobiography written by Kelly himself, the novel offers a unique perspective on the man behind the myth.
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Australia, the story delves into Kelly’s tumultuous life, from his early years as the son of Irish immigrants to his transformation into a notorious bushranger and folk hero. Through Kelly’s voice, readers gain insight into the social injustices, conflicts, and personal struggles that fueled his actions.
Carey’s prose captures the rawness and authenticity of Kelly’s voice, making the narrative both compelling and immersive. The novel challenges traditional portrayals of history and presents a nuanced exploration of Kelly’s motivations, as well as the complex relationships he had with his family, friends, and the authorities.
This is my personal favourite of all the books about Australia that are related to Ned Kelly.
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The Harp in the South (Ruth Park)
“The Harp in the South” by Ruth Park is a compelling and evocative novel that provides a vivid portrayal of life in the slums of post-World War II Sydney, Australia. Set in the suburb of Surry Hills, the novel follows the Darcy family, particularly the young Rosie and her parents, Hughie and Mumma, as they navigate the challenges of poverty, social prejudice, and the complexities of family relationships.
The story paints a rich tapestry of characters who populate the bustling neighbourhood, each with their own dreams, struggles, and stories. Through Park’s eloquent writing, readers are immersed in the sights, sounds, and dynamics of Surry Hills, a place where poverty and adversity are met with resilience and a sense of community.
“The Harp in the South” is a powerful exploration of social issues, including class divisions, gender roles, and the impact of economic hardship. While depicting the hardships faced by the Darcy family, the novel also highlights their moments of joy, humour, and the bonds that tie them together.
Jasper Jones (Craig Silvey)
“Jasper Jones” by Craig Silvey is a compelling coming-of-age novel that weaves together mystery, friendship, and social issues in a small Australian town during the 1960s. The story centres around Charlie Bucktin, a young boy who becomes unexpectedly entangled in a web of secrets and lies when Jasper Jones, an Indigenous teenager from the town’s outskirts, seeks his help to solve a crime.
Set against a backdrop of racial tensions and societal prejudices, the novel explores themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of human relationships. As Charlie and Jasper embark on their investigation, they uncover not only the truth behind the crime but also the hidden truths of the town’s inhabitants.
Silvey’s writing captures the nuances of adolescence and the challenges faced by young individuals as they grapple with moral dilemmas and personal growth. The friendship between Charlie and Jasper serves as a focal point, highlighting the power of empathy and connection to bridge social divides.
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The Light Between Oceans (M.L. Stedman)
“The Light Between Oceans” by M.L. Stedman is a heartrending and emotionally charged novel set on a remote island off the coast of Western Australia after World War I. The story revolves around Tom Sherbourne, a war veteran who becomes the lighthouse keeper on Janus Rock, and his wife Isabel. Their lives take an unexpected turn when a boat washes ashore carrying a dead man and a crying baby.
Isabel’s longing for a child and the couple’s isolation on the island lead them to make a morally complex decision: they raise the baby as their own, naming her Lucy. However, their actions have far-reaching consequences that reverberate through their lives and those of others.
Stedman’s beautifully crafted prose and intricate character development delve into themes of love, loss, guilt, and the consequences of choice. The rugged Australian landscape and the isolated island setting become characters in their own right, shaping the emotions and decisions of the characters.
The Lost Man (Jane Harper)
“The Lost Man” by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery novel that unfolds against the backdrop of the remote and unforgiving Australian outback. The story follows Nathan Bright, a man who seemingly has it all together until he is found dead in the desert. As his family grapples with the shocking loss, they are forced to confront their own secrets and the mysteries surrounding his death.
Set in the fictional Queensland outback, the novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics, the harsh realities of rural life, and the vast and isolating landscape that shapes the characters’ lives. Harper’s evocative descriptions vividly capture the harsh beauty and challenges of the outback environment.
Through multiple perspectives, “The Lost Man” reveals the intricacies of the Bright family’s relationships, rivalries, and buried traumas. As the layers of the mystery are peeled back, readers are drawn into a tale of suspense and psychological tension that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the haunting power of the past.
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“Girt: The Unauthorised History of Australia” by David Hunt is a comedic and enlightening exploration of Australia’s history that takes readers on a rollicking journey through the nation’s past, debunking myths, highlighting absurdities, and revealing lesser-known stories along the way.
With a witty and irreverent tone, Hunt navigates the twists and turns of Australia’s history, from its Indigenous roots and early European encounters to its transformation into a modern and diverse nation.
Hunt’s book blends historical facts with humour, offering a refreshing and entertaining perspective on key events and figures in Australia’s past. He unapologetically tackles both the serious and the absurd aspects of history, shedding light on the personalities and quirks that have shaped the nation’s identity.
Get Girt: The Unauthorised History of Australia.
My Place (Sally Morgan)
“My Place” by Sally Morgan is a powerful memoir that weaves together personal narrative, history, and identity to explore the author’s journey of self-discovery as an Aboriginal woman in Australia. The book traces three generations of Morgan’s family, revealing the challenges, struggles, and resilience of her Indigenous heritage.
Morgan’s story begins with her own experiences growing up in suburban Australia, unaware of her Aboriginal heritage due to her family’s efforts to hide their identity from a society that often discriminated against Indigenous people. As Morgan becomes curious about her roots, she embarks on a journey to uncover her family’s history and reconnect with her culture.
The memoir is both a personal account of Morgan’s search for identity and a broader exploration of the history of Australia’s Indigenous peoples. Through her family’s stories, she sheds light on the injustices, discrimination, and hardships faced by Aboriginal communities over the years.
Get My Place.
The White Earth (Andrew McGahan)
“The White Earth” by Andrew McGahan is a haunting and complex novel that delves into the intersections of history, power, and the supernatural in the context of Australia’s colonial past. Set in Queensland during the early 20th century, the story follows the experiences of William and his interactions with the land, the Indigenous people, and the forces that shape his destiny.
William is a young boy who is orphaned and sent to live with his uncle on a remote property called “White Earth.” As he navigates the unfamiliar landscape and encounters the local Aboriginal people, he becomes increasingly entangled in a world of myth, spirituality, and cultural clashes.
McGahan’s writing skillfully weaves together multiple narrative threads, blending historical fiction with elements of the supernatural and the psychological. Through William’s perspective, readers are confronted with the darkness that lies beneath the surface of the land and the colonial society that perpetuates inequality and violence.
Get The White Earth.
The Slap (Christos Tsiolkas)
“The Slap” by Christos Tsiolkas is a provocative and incisive novel that delves into the complexities of modern Australian society through the lens of a single incident: a man slapping a child at a suburban barbecue. Set in Melbourne, the book offers a multi-faceted exploration of relationships, cultural tensions, and personal values.
The novel follows the aftermath of the slap as it reverberates through the lives of a diverse group of characters, each with their own perspectives and motivations. Through their stories, “The Slap” delves into issues of parenting, race, class, gender, and generational conflicts, while also examining the impact of a rapidly changing society on individuals and communities.
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Remembering Babylon (David Malouf)
“Remembering Babylon” by David Malouf is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of identity, belonging, and cultural clashes in the context of 19th-century Australia. The story is set in a colonial outpost in Queensland and follows the life of Gemmy Fairley, a white child who was cast away by his family and raised by Aboriginal people.
When Gemmy returns to European settlement after many years, he finds himself caught between two worlds: the Indigenous culture that raised him and the colonizers who view him with suspicion and fear. As the settlement grapples with Gemmy’s presence and the complexities of cultural encounters, the novel explores the intricate dynamics between different communities and the challenges of bridging cultural divides.
Malouf’s poetic prose and introspective narrative style create a nuanced exploration of the character’s inner thoughts and emotions. Through their perspectives, readers gain insight into the impact of colonization on both the Indigenous population and the settlers.
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On the Beach (Nevil Shute)
“On the Beach” is a post-apocalyptic novel written by Nevil Shute, published in 1957. The book is set in the aftermath of a devastating global nuclear war that has wiped out most of humanity. The title refers to the fact that the story primarily takes place in Australia, which is one of the last habitable places on Earth as the deadly radiation slowly spreads across the globe.
The novel follows the lives of a group of people in Melbourne, Australia, as they come to terms with the impending doom of radioactive fallout that will inevitably reach them. The characters include a submarine captain, his crew, and various civilians who are trying to make the most of the time they have left.
The story explores themes of despair, existentialism, and the human response to inevitable death. The characters grapple with the emotional and psychological challenges of living with the knowledge that there is no hope for the survival of humanity, and they each react differently to their impending doom.
Throughout the novel, there’s a sense of impending doom and inevitability, as the characters’ lives are measured by the countdown of the approaching radiation cloud. The novel also highlights the futility of war and the devastating consequences of nuclear conflict.
Get On The Beach.
The Magic Pudding (Norman Lindsay)
“The Magic Pudding” is a classic Australian children’s book written and illustrated by Norman Lindsay. It was first published in 1918 and has since become a beloved and enduring piece of Australian literature. The book is known for its whimsical and humorous storytelling, as well as its charming illustrations.
The story revolves around a magical pudding named Albert, who can regenerate no matter how much is eaten by him. The pudding is owned by three friends: Bunyip Bluegum, a koala who is the story’s protagonist; Bill Barnacle, a sailor; and Sam Sawnoff, a penguin. These three companions embark on various adventures while trying to protect the pudding from a variety of characters who want to steal it for themselves.
The book is filled with humorous wordplay, witty dialogues, and absurd situations. It often uses playful language and puns that are entertaining for both children and adults. The characters’ interactions and escapades create a lighthearted and entertaining narrative.
Get The Magic Pudding.
We of the Never-Never (Jeannie Gunn)
“We of the Never-Never” is a memoir and novel written by Jeannie Gunn, also known as Mrs Aeneas Gunn. It was first published in 1908 and is considered a classic of Australian literature. The book provides a fascinating insight into the author’s experiences living in the Australian outback during the late 19th century.
The story is based on Jeannie Gunn’s own life and revolves around her time spent with her husband, Aeneas Gunn, on a remote cattle station called Elsey Station in the Northern Territory of Australia. The couple arrived at the station in 1902, and Jeannie Gunn’s narrative paints a vivid picture of the challenges and rewards of life in the harsh and unforgiving outback.
“We of the Never-Never” captures the daily life, hardships, and unique culture of the people living in the outback during that era. It provides a window into the interactions between Indigenous Australians and European settlers, shedding light on the complex relationships and cultural clashes that occurred during the colonization of Australia.
The Happiest Refugee (Anh Do)
“The Happiest Refugee” is a memoir written by Anh Do, a Vietnamese-Australian comedian, author, and actor. The book was published in 2010 and recounts Anh Do’s remarkable life story, from his tumultuous childhood in war-torn Vietnam to his journey as a refugee to Australia and his eventual success in the entertainment industry.
The memoir is a deeply personal account of Anh Do’s experiences, capturing the challenges, hardships, and moments of humour that shaped his life. The title, “The Happiest Refugee,” reflects Anh’s positive outlook and resilience in the face of adversity.
Anh Do’s family fled Vietnam on a small fishing boat, enduring a treacherous journey at sea before eventually arriving in Australia as refugees. The book explores their struggles to adapt to a new culture, language, and way of life, as well as Anh’s own journey to find his passion and carve out a career in comedy and entertainment.
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The Bone Sparrow (Zana Fraillon)
“The Bone Sparrow” is a novel written by Zana Fraillon, an Australian author. The book, published in 2016, is a young adult novel that addresses themes of immigration, refugee experiences, and the plight of people living in detention centres.
The story centres around Subhi, a young boy who was born in an Australian immigration detention centre. He and his family are Rohingya refugees from Myanmar (Burma) who have fled persecution and violence. Subhi’s life within the centre is marked by confinement, limited resources, and uncertainty about his future.
The novel alternates between Subhi’s perspective and that of Jimmie, a local Australian girl who lives outside the detention centre. Their lives intersect when Jimmie discovers a gap in the fence and strikes up a friendship with Subhi. Through their friendship, the book explores the stark contrast between their lives and the challenges faced by refugees like Subhi.
Get The Bone Sparrow.
A Kid’s Guide to Australia (Jack L Roberts)
If you have children or teach them, or just look after family or friends’ kids, then “A Kid’s Guide to Australia” by Jack L. Roberts is an engaging and educational book designed to introduce young readers to the wonders of Australia.
With its interactive approach and informative content, the guidebook provides children with a fun and insightful way to learn about the country’s geography, wildlife, culture, history, and more.
Through colourful illustrations, maps, and engaging activities, “A Kid’s Guide to Australia” takes children on a virtual journey across the continent. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the unique animals that inhabit the Outback, the book highlights Australia’s distinctive features in a way that is both entertaining and educational.
The guide is designed to spark children’s curiosity and encourage them to explore different facets of Australia, from its diverse landscapes to its Indigenous heritage. With quizzes, puzzles, and hands-on activities, young readers can actively engage with the content and deepen their understanding of Australia’s rich and varied offerings.
Get A Kid’s Guide to Australia.
Travel Guidebooks For Australia
Fodor’s Essential Australia
This is one of the best books about Australia as far as a travel guide goes. It serves as a valuable companion for anyone looking to explore the diverse landscapes, cities, and cultural treasures of Australia.
With its wealth of information, practical advice, and expert recommendations, the guidebook provides travellers with a thorough understanding of Australia’s attractions and helps them plan unforgettable journeys across the continent.
Get Fodor’s Essential Australia.
Lonely Planet Australia
This guidebook provides comprehensive information about travelling in Australia, including details about its cities, regions, attractions, culture, history, outdoor activities, and more.
Wildlife of Australia
Ideal for the nature-loving traveller, Wildlife of Australia is a handy photographic pocket guide to the most widely seen birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and habitats of Australia.
This is a great book as a guide to the wildlife of Australia for when travelling there.
Travel To Australia
Travelling to Australia promises a journey of awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences, and these books about Australia will help you understand the culture better.
From the sun-soaked beaches and the iconic Sydney Opera House to the ancient mysteries of the Outback and the Great Barrier Reef’s mesmerizing marine life, this diverse and enchanting country offers something for every kind of traveller.
For more on the region take a look at these 20 famous landmarks in Australia.
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