Literature
I was sceptical at first but then I read, and met, John Marsden
The Book Thief author Markus Zusak reflects on a writer who changed young adult literature – and always said “hi”.
- by Markus Zusak
Latest
The 10 best books from the past 25 years
We surveyed critics, editors and writers to determine the best (or at least their best) books since 2000. Let the debates begin.
I tried one of John Marsden’s writing prompts. It was really hard
The phenomenally successful author, who died last week, believed “intensity” was the key to writing for teenage readers.
- by Jane Sullivan
Opinion
Summer reads
‘Internal’ exile is in fashion, and that’s where I’m headed this summer
Taking comfort in simple pleasures – such as reading – can provide us with a shield against the world’s woes. Toughness can wait.
- by Jacqueline Maley
John Marsden taught me how to have a big, brave life
Marsden had huge respect for young people and wrote for them with genuine authenticity. He also challenged the ways we might parent our children.
- by Sally Rippin
Nikki Gemmell’s new ‘feminist’ novel has baffled me
Wing features a cast of truly awful, nasty people. What is Gemmell trying to achieve here?
- by Helen Elliott
Crime writer Jacqueline Bublitz gives a voice to forgotten women
The New Zealand-born author was warned off writing from a dead woman’s perspective but ignored the advice.
- by Kerrie O'Brien
How R.E.M. became ‘the most improbably successful group in music’
From sleeping on floors and a legendary first gig in a church, even from the beginning R.E.M. were determined to bend the mainstream to their will.
- by Daniel Herborn
Louise Adler on fear, freedom and the appalling state of public discourse
The head of Adelaide Writers’ Week does not step back from the tough issues – and nor should we, she says.
- by Kerrie O'Brien
Magazine
Sunday Life
The December 15 Edition
In our special summer reading issue, author Elizabeth Gilbert graces our cover and chats with Jane Rocca about life and love
Looking for a book to get stuck into this summer? Here’s our pick
Lazy days with a novel in hand are what holidays are all about.
- by Georgie Gordon
Original URL: https://www.theage.com.au/topic/literature-1m4g