Five books you might not have realised are by Canberra authors
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Think you know Canberra? Home to politicians, public servants, and… powerhouse authors?
While the capital’s literary scene flies under the radar, local writers have been quietly producing remarkable books that have captivated readers nationwide – and you’ve probably devoured some of these page-turners without even realising.
Here are five noteworthy books by authors based in the ACT and surrounding region.
Slutdom: Reclaiming shame-free sexuality by Dr Hilary Caldwell
Challenging taboos around sexuality and empowerment, Slutdom made waves from the moment it hit shelves.
Written by sexologist and academic Dr Hilary Caldwell (who has an Masters in Health Science and Applied Science), it dives into topics such as pleasure, pain, empowerment, and includes real women’s stories and saucy tips.
Describing herself as “a kinky, queer doctor and a sex worker, mother and grandmother,” her work is controversial, celebratory and courageous – and well worth reading.
The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race by Melanie Tait
You might have seen the TV show, but did you know that the stage play of the same name was written by Australian playwright, journalist and local Melanie Tait?
Inspired by her own experiences of living in Robertson, the hilarious comedy explores the gender pay gap as the main character – Penny – comes back to her hometown and discovers that the legendary potato race pays men $1000 and women only $200 for first prize. She decides to change this, and the town goes into meltdown.
Grab the script to read how Melanie looks at small-town life, feminism and how Penny smashes through the glass ceiling, one potato sack at a time.
Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens by Shankari Chandran
The winner of the 2023 Miles Franklin Award and the recipient of many glowing reviews, Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens might sound like a cosy read – but you’d be mistaken. Set in both modern-day western Sydney and the Sri Lankan civil war, the book tells the tale of a diverse group of elderly Australians living in a family-run nursing home – tackling complex topics including race, trauma, memory, family and community,
Described as “a love letter to story-telling and how our stories shape who we are”, just a warning: it will punch you in the gut.
This Is Not A Book About Benedict Cumberbatch by Tabitha Carvan
Anyone else remember when this book went viral? It turns out that author Tabitha Carvan is based in Canberra.
A hilarious, heartfelt memoir about one woman’s midlife obsession with Benedict Cumberbatch, and the power of reclaiming our passions as we age, it’s a memoir, feminist essay, and pop culture analysis all rolled into one.
Helping women find the intrinsic value of seeking out joy in their everyday life, add it to the top of your TBR if you haven’t read it already.
Love and Other Scores by Abra Pressler
A queer romance novel set at the Australian Open? It’s no surprise that Love and Other Scores by Abra Pressler is loved by romance readers.
Released in 2024, it serves up a swoonworthy romance full of twists and turns as Abra explores the themes of queer identity, celebrity, family ties, addiction and the balance between greatness and happiness. The perfect feel-good read, the combination of Melbourne, gay romance and tennis will have you coming back for more.
