These works evoke a sense of its vast and extraordinary landscapes, describe places that are quintessentially Western Australian and reveal characters that are complex, funny and fabulous!
Which works come to mind when you think about WA? How do you feel about the way your home has been represented? We want to hear from you.
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By Randolph Stow
Stephen from Bayswater says:I read this as a boy, and was delighted to discover that a WA author could set a thoroughly enjoyable book in locations I recognized, and have it published. Before this, I had never realized that was possible.
By B. Bingham-Gates
Beverley from Perth says:I sat at the window and tried to take in the wild and untamed beauty before me, but history haunted with recollections of the war just past, my damaged soul replaying over and over a tumultuous raging Kaleidoscope of unparalleled disorder and grief….the year was 1946. Determined….I concentrated on the scene before me, the high ridge where the Pussy Willows played, where the Paperbark swayed and stayed, where the Kingfishers flew displaying their blue and the black fish swam all day. Where huge round boulders covered in Lichen sat among pink faced Clover, side the crystal clear waters of Convict Creek as it flowed from the hills high above, where the easterly winds screamed down the ravine setting the 80ft Gum trees a-sway. Still unsettled….I saddled my gentle Shire “Hunter” and rode west towards the coast, down to my favourite haunt, Moody Blues Lake. I tied him loosely to a tree and began the walk down to the lake.
By Jennifer Browne
christine from spearwood says:It seemed to capture an innocence of a pretty desperate era, and the very early interaction of different cultures, both the coming together and the destruction.
By Dorothea Mackellar
Margaret from Mt hawthorn says:The poem paints a picture of the vastness and diversity of this state and also the strong connection we have to it.
By Albert Facey
Aileen from Crawley says:This book made me realise the extraordinary resilience, strength and determination of our early settlers and to more fully appreciate the difficulties and trials my own family experienced and successfully overcame.
By Leslie Merchant
Gregory from Dudley Park says:By explaining the French expeditions to Western Australia and their significant scientific exploration and discovery of our land (flora) and animals (fauna) in and around the 1800's.
By Robert Drewe
Vivien from Hilton says:An isolated city built on sand. The book captures the small-town conservatism of Perth in the 50's and 60's, the beach culture and the perceived loss of innocence and sense of safety brought about by the crimes of Eric Cooke.
Ann from Claremont says:Having lived inland from Geraldton - it brings to me the vastness of that area, the town, the Greenough Flats, the station country - Mullewa, Yalgoo, Chapman Valley districts. How life and attitudes were then and the history of what it is today.
By Tom Hungerfors
Christa from Crawley says:A book about his life growing up in South Perth and the market gardens. Made me think about moving to Perth.
By The Seekers
Oscar from Fremantle says:I remember how One Nation wanted to use this song as their theme during the 1990's but they were told to bugger off by The Seekers. 20 years later, WA doubled up and told those racist bastards to bugger off again.
By The Waifs
Lia from Freamtle says:It makes me think about the long drives when travelling around WA and hanging out by the campfire eating fish caught earlier in the day.
By Josephine Wilson
Beverly from Cottesloe says:Made me think about growing up in Perth in 1960-1970. I completely related to my experiences. Reminiscent of growing up in Perth.
By Men at Work
Sharon from Brookton says:It made me feel proud to be Australian and helped me connect to the land I live on.
By Tim Winton
Edward from Doubleview says:The lyrics captured a personal sense of WA relating to the atmosphere of culture of certainly Perth and WA in general.
Louise from Doubleview says:Josephine portrayal of Perth and surrounding areas. Great read.
By Jackie French
Kathy from Perth says:As a migrant to Australia it gives an overall perspective of what Australia's icons mean.
Sonia from East Perth says:Reminder of childhood and promotion and care of the WA environment. Presentation at the 2018 Writers Festival depicts WA and evokes emotion and recognition.
Eileen from Perth says:Nostalgic - this novel is everything that is Western Australia; the sky, the ocean, the people.
By Amanda Curtin
Megan from Shenton Park says:We're a society made up of people with history from all over the world. We have a long history of hard workers and people who welcome personal challenges to make WA what it is today.
Fiona from Fremantle says:It spoke of a time before and after Perth lost its innocence. Created a simple idyllic landscape before development changed suburbs and evil affected communities. A time in WA I love but not for the scar it left of the city but for the summer days and balmy nights.
Diana from Denmark says:What a wonderful place to live. How lucky am I to live in Oz - spiritually uplifting.
Kirsten from East Fremantle says:Reminds me of growing up in WA.
By Sally Morgan
Lucy from Willetton says:Wonder at the 'olden times', Sally's book is very evocative of this time and place. Nostalgia personified.
By Robert Drew
Irene from Scarborough says:Beaches - freedom as a kid, sun, dry skin and bleached hair
Bianca from Leeming says:I was born overseas and I'm a relatively recent arrival to WA and Australia. When I first read Cloudstreet I had this tremendous feeling of arriving home. Since then I've read everything by Tim Winton. He's the only author who makes me feel homesick for WA although I was born overseas.
Barbara from Bull Creek says:It captures the essence of WA which is mainly desert. The dust, the sand, the light and harshness of the place and what it means and influence the child growing up in this ancient landscape.
Pip from Coolbellup says:This was the first novel I read that was written by an Aboriginal author and it drew such a warm and living picture of Aboriginal Perth. I've never forgotten the plastic flowers put in the garden just before the wedding! Sally Morgan was a really important bridge builder.
By Joan London
Angela from Karrinyup says:Evokes Perth in the 1970's - personal memories of the time.
By Dianne Wolfe
Sophia from Mount Lawley says:It makes me understand how hard the war was for people and how such terrible things happened.
By Phillip Playford
peter from Floreat says:This book made me feel connected to a remote part of WA and our past links to the Dutch sea travellers. In the 1950s, Phillip Playford stood at the top of limestone cliffs on a remote part of the Western Australian coast, looking down on wooden wreckage(the Zuytdorf), dating back to 1700s. What was the fate fate of the survivors, did they perish into the harsh Western Australian outback or did they join the local Aborigines and become the first European settlers in Australia? It also makes me realise how lucky we have been to grow up in state that until very recently has had its natural beauty locked away.
Mary from Duncraig says:We have a holiday house in Lancelin and the description of landscape and the characters was very familiar and evocative.
By Liz Berski
Robyn from Perth says:I enjoyed the book because it is placed in Fremantle where I live - it is lovely to read a book set in familiar territory - I also relate to the characters who are usually women around my age.
Robyn from Perth says:I very much related to this book - it took me back to the scary days of Edgar Cooke - although in 1962 I was only 10 years old I knew my parents took us out of school for 2 weeks to get away from it in the South West.
By David Wish-Wlson
Robyn from Perth says:I loved this book because it gave me so much insight and new information about my home city.
By Cristy Burne
Graham from Wembley Downs says:A great children's novel that I read to my kids, located in Rottnest. Brings back fond memories and the excitement of being young. Great to share with the family.
By Linda Newell
Christine from North Beach says:Everyday people reacting to the 'important' things, places, events in their (probably) not so important lives. An indication of what is in people's hearts, not just what is in the news or in the minds of writers and artists.
By David Wish-Wilson
Susan from Canningvale says:This book wonderfully transported me back in time to all the areas of Perth where I went to school and drove around in my youth. The layout and accessibility of Perth's surrounding road systems and suburbs were so incredibly visual within the words of the story... a story of the time.
By Anthea Hodgson
Libby from Wickepin says:This novel is about life and death in the Wheatbelt of WA captures the beauty of the landscape - and the beauty of the friendships and community in rural WA. The descriptions of the countryside are excellent!
By Peter Fitzsimmons
Lee from Tapping says:A very interesting insight to the happenings on the Abrolhos Islands before colonisation. This piece of history is not well known, unfortunately. It emphasises the remoteness of Australia and how 'good' triumphs over 'evil'.
Bernie from Quinns Rocks says:Carefree culture mixed with an occasional dark side. Captures the beauty of WA's south coast.
By Di Morrissey
Jennifer from Shenton Park says:Depicts the Kimberley region
By John Kinsella
Debbie from Toodjay says:Incorporated many of the places I have lived and passed through in the WA Wheatbelt.
Helen from Mount Lawley says:It made me appreciate the power of the ocean, the joys and terrors of surfing and the experience of growing up in a WA country town.
Kate from Mosman Park says:It captured the remoteness of the land, the carefree nature of children growing up outdoors, the rawness of the ocean, the space available, the dangers of growing up in a physically and emotionally remote culture.
By AB Facey
Tam from Nedlands says:I read this whilst working in Narrogin briefly. It gave me an amazing insight to the region and the places and their vibrant recent history.
By Isobelle Carmody
Leah from Edgewater says:I first read this book as a teen on holiday in Albany. I re-read it several times, some also in Albany and for some reason this book has always reminded me of that time and place.
By Robert Edeson
Heather from Morley says:I think how he writes and format of the book is so interesting, his view point in his writing so unique, he is a unique writer that has great balance and grammar. His book is easy to understand.
Deborah from Landsdale says:I read it as a child and can remember it was about WWII in Geraldton and the threat of Japanese bombing and the fear of the possibility. It brought home to me that even though we believe we are isolated we really aren't. My family lived in England in WWII and I knew of their stories. I guess the idea of safety and innocence was challenged.
By Di Wolfer
Bianca from Bicton says:A historical collection of letters that gave a wonderful insight into the time of war and effect it had on townships and the prejudices that existed at that time. A beautiful way to depict that era to children.
By Margaret O'Neil and Di Jones
Judy from Willeton says:The connection between person and country, spirit and life is beautifully represented. An amazing journey that encompasses life - challenges, fear, love and a physical journey too. How the depth of Aboriginal history can teach us all so much.
By Craig Silvey
Jemma from Palmyra says:Small mindedness in small towns can be so painful to think about - can bring out the worst in people and also the best but it has a loneliness I don't like or feel comfortable with.
Ranka from Wembley Downs says:After having lived in Perth for the last 23 years after migrating from Croatia, this book made me feel a sense of belonging, roots finally being planted in Perth.
By Jane Harper
Tracey from Subiaco says:I related to the industry of living in drought.
George from Menora says:When I read this book it brought to mind Perth in the 1960's. I came to Perth from Scotland in 1960 spending 2 years in Graylands Migrant Hostel then my family lived in Claremont during Eric Cooke's murderous rampage. It brought to mind the changes in Perth from what was then essentially a big country town (very trusting) to a more modern city.
By Brooke Davis
Dahlia from Perth says:Having transport is a big part of feeling free in a country like Australia where everything is very spread out. Lost and found made me realise how isolating it can be to live in WA, even in the city which is supposed to be 'central'.
By Mark Greenwood
Kirralee from South Perth says:I read this book countless times as a child, and to see illustrations relating to a familiar environment such as the flora and Fremantle prison really meant something to me. It signified that stories about Western Australians set in Western Australia were just as important as any other story.
By Katherine Susanna Pritchard
Dora from North Beach says:No one can deny the essential experience of Australia as a country, and Western Australia as a largely barren desert environment, as dry, harsh and full of wonderful surprises on close inspection. This book reflects a primitive look at the Australian bush environment and the interaction between station owners and the original inhabitants of this land. The book describes the demise of one Aboriginal woman in her own country but dislodged from it to a fragile end. A very moving novel.
By Colin Buchanan
Jessica from Gidgegannup says:It talks about Christmas from an Aussie point of view. Makes me feel like Christmas in summer is okay.
Sharon from Kallaroo says:It made me regret the loss of innocence. This book described an event in the coming-of-age of Perth.
By Mei Saraswati
Korrin from Coolbinia says:A song that pays homage to times passed to the ecological and native history of Whadjuk Noongar land. When I think of the spirit and place of WA, Perth in particular I can't look past those ancient spirits threaded through the fabric of our city.
Rachel from Abbotsford says:It is me growing up in the western suburbs of Perth. You think it could be anywhere in Australia but it's not - it's unique to Western Australia and the way of life here. Whenever I come back to Perth and drive the streets of this town, I remember Cloudstreet - prawing in the river etc. etc.
By Peter Allen
Noel from South Perth says:Not just Western Australia with its wide open space, magnificent scenery and colours but Australia in general.
Anne from Woodlands says:Quintessential Australia at that time
Craig from Woodlands says:This novel exposed me to the everyday seperateness and isolation of life in Perth where everyone is actually so closely connected and everyone knows everybody elses business.
By Sofie Laguna
Amber from Gidgegannup says:It made me feel like WA because it was about a convict from England moving over from Western Australia and how she learns to live in the 1800's Australia.
By Dame Mary Durack and Albert Facey
Peta from KALGOORLIE says:These books show that people had that "Can Do" attitude to life and living. There were huge obstacles to overcome and using their strength, ingenuity and sheer doggedness, they worked through them and although they may have felt like giving up that was not a choice. I think also that without these amazing pioneers out lifestyle could be very different. It is interesting to see how attitudes have changed as well, our attitudes towards the Aboriginal people and also to other immigrants to the country and also expectations of what we are entitled to.
Tegan from Singleton says:For me, Jasper Jones really captured the small town in regional WA feel, in terms of both the landscape and the community. Jasper Jones perfectly captured how in a small community, the best and the worse of how we live with each other is emphasised. The community rallies together when a young girl goes missing and supports the family in their grief, however the fault lines of the community and the fragility of the tolerance of those considered outsiders is also revealed. Jasper Jones also shows that even in a tight-knit small community, there is plenty of room for secrets.
By Thomas M. Wilson
Julia from Beaconsfield says:This book actually changed the way I felt about living in WA - I only wish I could have read it when I first arrived from the UK many years ago. It's a lovely mixture of personal experience and deeply researched environmental history - the author has an academic background but is able to make his subject matter accessible and engrossing. The sub-title includes the phrase, 'belonging in the south-west' and after reading the book, I felt much more connected and at home in W.A.... I wish it could be handed out to every new arrival at Perth airport!
By Unsure
Terri from WILSON says:Western Australia is a great place for country folk to raise a family and enjoy the many wonderful sights this state has to offer. Friendly folks, great food, beautiful scenery and a big love for animals.
Nancy from Crawley says:As a new migrant in WA, this book enlightened me to the unique natural environment and landscape of this specific corner of the Australian continent. I generally feel homesick as I am geographically disconnected from my own landscape. However, appreciating the specific details of plants and species that this book beautifully describes, made my weekly trips to nature (kings park and bold park) more meaningful. The book offered me a special connection to this landscape and helped me to belong quicker to my new home.
By Elizabeth Tan
Shannon from Viveash says:Rubik is part speculative fiction, part sci-fi. It presents a version of Perth that feels at times very ordinary, but then something very weird happens and you see the landscape in a whole other way. Despite the sci-fi oddness it feels like the Perth we live in and all of the characters feel like someone you might know or have met once.
By B.Bingham-Gates.
Bev from Beeliar Hts. says:Nostalgic at all we have lost in terms of the environment! Where once the environment was teeming with such a diverse accumulation of birds and other animals...the lakes ONCE so pristine and seemingly preserved for subsequent generations, now the time is fast approaching when all we will have is writings of what we had in the past.
Joanne from Viveash says:It made me think about the continuing relationship Aboriginal people have to the land and culture and the loss and trauma experienced by current and post generations. It also portrays enduring deep love between families.
By Stephanie Bishop
Michelle from Shenton Park says:This novel, although through the eyes of post natal depression, captured the faraway nature of Perth (at least from England). The heat, the big blue skies, the different plants, the foreshore - to the writer they were foreign but to me they were familiar and home.
Alison from LAthlain says:Beautiful
Alison from Lathlain says:Small town quirkiness where neighbours still correct
Deepa from Waterford says:I loved this book as it evoked images of the WA bush. You could picture walking though the bush with eh different majestic trees. It depicted life in a country small town extremely well.
Jon from Albany says:The collapse of a man hell bent on good but no idea how to go about implementing it.
Jon from Albany says:A rollicking family saga from the suburbs
By Kim Scott
Jon from Albany says:Evokes the sweet beginnings of what should have been, could have been, could have an example of how to met and be with, those intending
Jon from Albany says:That nasty time when apartheid was in place and in force.
Terry from Subiaco says:Kim Scotts wisdom and perceptions of WA are unequal.
Claudia from South Perth says:Amused and proud at the same time. WA is so uniquely the most larrikin of Australian States. Also the most anarchic.
By Diane Wolfer
Rod from East Victoria Park says:Very evocative island isolation, set in Albany and the wild Souther Ocean and the loss of so many young men in the First World War.
By David Whish-Wilson
Warren from Mosmarn Park says:1970s crime in Perth
By Lynne Leonhardt
Warren from Mosman Park says:The Perth author enlivens Perth and the 1960s as well as country WA and the 1940s and 50s.
By The Triffids
Rebecca from Nedlands says:It perfectly captures those seemingly endless road trips of childhood, combined with he optimism of WA.
David from Marangaroo says:As the central character came of age so too did the city, isolated as it was, in such dark and morbid circumstances. The author brings to life our beaches, hot summers and our view of outsiders, still relevant to the present.
Tina from Menora says:That in the 1960s WA small town mentality that you have nothing to fear except fear itself. I believe it captures the insularity of the town, but at the same time, the sense of strong community. It reflects how I felt growing up as a young adult... the pursuit of escapism to another more broad-minded and sophisticated world.
Natalie from Kingsley says:As a native South Australian I never felt a true connection to WA until I read this book. The sand, the beaches, the leaving the front door open in case someone dropped by with a carton of beer! Thank you Mr Drewe
By Randolf Stowe
Suzanne from SPearwood says:It conjured up a feeling of Western Australia and of specifically my feeling of being an inhabitant of WA in the most evocative way, I have never forgotten his description of the trees that resembled the women of his family washing their hair and drying it in the sun. How wonderful!
Lydia from Melville says:It's beautiful in its simplicity. The most obvious characters and landscapes are often overlooked. The descriptions of people in south coastal areas match the memory of the mix that live down south in the Hopetown region. The vocabulary highlighted images of my own experiences visiting the area like the road seemed to run into the sea and spirits whispered through win in the peppermint trees. The characters seem to honestly represent the Aboriginal points of view.
Sarah from Thornlie says:Reading the book there is a constant sense of familiarity and you can relate to all of the characters and setting
By Anthea Harris and John McIlwraith
Diane from Dalkeith says:Impressed by the self confidence and determination of early leaders in Western Australia.Surprised that so few of the prospectors for gold in WA were successful. The triumphal atmosphere of living in WA during the gold rushes despite the typhoid, disappointment etc.etc. make this book a pleasure to read.
By Mark Greenwood; Terry Denton illustrator
Catherins from Rivervale says:An impressive tale of a spirited indigenous Australian, leading an uprising against those taking his people's land and livelihood. Showing incredible tenacity and strength, jandamarra's tale is beautifully told by Mark Greenwood (one of my absolute favourite authors - gosh he can tell a story!), and evocatively illustrated by Terry Denton. Terry captures our stunning North West landscape so well.
By Liz Bursky
Annette from Swanbourne says:I really enjoyed - known areas, you know the place and can relate to it.
Jenny from Duncraig says:Reminded me of my childhood in Perth.
Pippa from Beaconsfield says:It was one of the first books that I was exposed to that talked about streets and places I knew. Places I've walked and visited. It made the story come alive in a way a story set in the UK or even the eastern states couldn't. Plus his writing IS Western Australian - idioms, phrasing and colour. It's relatable and familiar. He is one of us.
By Bernice Barry
Lynda from Hamersley says:It made me aware of our beautiful bushland with the amazing wildflowers we have that are so unique. Also how pioneer women managed their lives generally coping by themself.
Glenda from Trigg says:The book was published about the time of my arrival in Perth from Melbourne. It introduced me to the effect of climate on lifestyle. Fishing for prawns in the Swan. I found Tim's earthy style indicative of the natural life in Perth.
By Norman Jogenson
Trisha from Trila@bigpond.com says:Reminiscent about life on Rottnest Island during WWII, insight in to it's history and lifestyle.
By Tess Woods
Paul from Duncraig says:Loved the descriptions of Scarborough Beach and the South West. Very proud!
By M L Stedman
Maria from East Fremantle says:Showed how people lived more simply. Also that the location was where I had holidays with my family. I n a lot of ways made me proud to be Western Australian.
Ainslie from Attadale says:More than any other novel about WA this book's power has become a part of who I am as a West Australian. In particular, the image or concept of 'sand people' has really impressed itself on my consciousness as a picture not only of the transience of life in a harsh continent but also of the malleability and resilience of us as a people. I believe 'sand people' captures exactly who we are - people of sand, people attracted to and drawn back to the shore; looking to the horizon for inspiration and for an anchor on shifting ground.
Julie from Doubleview says:The way he writes about the coastal towns, the river and the families that live along them.
Jennifer from Palmyra says:I loved reading this book which describes so intimately, beautifully, my home town in WA. As well as being proud WA has writers who can create characters who grow and develop and enrich our understanding of people.
Jane from Manning says:I used to live in the area Drewe wrote about in this novel, so it was all very familiar and homely.
Lee from Canning says:A book that tells a story that could be set anywhere in the world but that is quintessentially Australian. Characters that are flawed, but believable, and who speak and live as any modern Australian does. Secrets, lies, and awesome storytelling.
By Tests Woods
Daniella from Karrinyup says:A contemporary novel set in Perth - loved reading a book where I knew the places the characters were living and visiting.
Maleeha from Thornlie says:"Call it our country, our country all round here. We got river, we got sea." This made me feel appreciative of the land I live on as an Aboriginal person. I have a spiritual connection to WA. The land I live on defines every part of me.
By Katherine Sussanah Pritchard
Janelle from Scarborough says:It welcomed me to WA and made me feel I had found another home. Katharine inspired me us to the point of naming our first child/daughter in her honour. WA writing is welcoming and honest but especially speaks of love - for people, place and plans.
By Katharine Susannah Prichard
Nenen from Inglewood says:This book was a simple, tragic story that illustrated a forgotten chapter of Australia's/WA's history within rugged scenery I could recognise, having distant memories of the outback from my childhood. It made me feel more connected to all stories that WA's history can offer.
By Stephen Daisley
Donna from Bayanup says:The dingo story alongside the human one in the Wheatbelt tells us about our truths of place.
By George Seddon
Margaret from Nedlands says:It takes the reader along the Swan River, explaining the history and importance in history. Also it points out how we have learnt to function as a community in WA.
By Tom Winton
Marise from Maylands says:This book perfectly echoed the 'feel' and the characters of a small WA town. It reminded me of the small town claustrophobia of the relationship between people, juxtaposed with the vast open spaces and huge skies.
Cassie from Subiaco says:Insight into life in the early times in our State and how hard it was and how rewarding.
Bernadette from Ellenbrook says:This book beautifully captures the soft and the rough of WA's South-West. The characters have both deep emotions and serious bite. Loved it.
By Alison Tilson
Tegan from Thornlie says:Viewing WA from an outsiders viewpoint made for a fresh and interesting perspective.
Jane from Scarborough says:The environment is another character - sand dunes/waves/river/UWA - Nedlands area. Quirky characters - People in WA are such individuals!
Alison from Trigg says:This book evokes the city (Perth) in the post-war era. Eastern European refugees were seeking to carve out their identity in a very different world: the heat, sand, dust, a polio epidemic....London paints an empathetic picture of a very different city - and hospital care - from the streets and high rise buildings we hurry around today. Then and now, very beautiful people to meet.
Vivienne from West Leederville says:Beautiful images of WA landscapes, and times nostalgic to childhood, but with the unsettling backdrop of foreign nuclear testing off our pristine and unique coastline. Drewe can transport you to a time and place you realise you have not forgotten.
Cherie from Mt Pleasant says:Great spirit of place. Wonderful to recognise the sea, the sky, the river, the houses and places described. Great to read about people and places familiar. Home. Also love how Tim's prose feels like poetry.
Sharon from Kallaroo says:Looking out to the horizon over the ocean, this is so evocative of the endless possibilities of tis state.
Andrea from Carine says:I don't surf because I'm too scared. The way Tim Winton writes about surfing is so vivid. It's as close as I'll ever get to surfing.
By Jack Davis
Jan from Nedland says:Made me feel sad!!! I am from the east and this told me the treatment of Indigenous People was the same here as in the east.
Nicole from Como says:Set in a town very similar to Pemberton, WA, Jasper Jones evoked the emotion of Australian bush, tall tress, isolation, yet a familiar sense of belonging to WA. Well written, a beautiful account of WA.
Ann from Scarborough says:As an immigrant I know very little about WA culture, nostalgia, humour and history. This wrapped up all this knowledge in a accessible, funny, thought provoking way.
Liz from Leeming says:I could have put any of Tim Winton's titles down. His books epitomise for me the dry heat, the smell of hot skin and sand, the space, the remoteness and intimacy in equal measure of all that makes WA wonderful - quirky people, beautiful landscapes and space.
Jody from Peppermint Grove says:So young when I was when I first read this book and yet it has long lingered with me. The sense of isolation, of identification of place through object, of reimagining childhood. It is my existence within and my memory of W.A.
Emily from Northbridge says:I read this book as a child growing up uni Victoria - it was my first exposure to Western Australia. It gave me an impression of a sleepy city filled with sand and blazing heat, a completely foreign place. When I moved here I recognised the spirit and understood the description but realised it has become a lot more than that and there is a lot more below the surface of the stereotype.
By Craig Slivey
Racquel from Shenton Park says:I enjoyed seeing my city in a novel!
Jenny from Carine says:It evoked an era of WA's history and conjured beautiful atmospheric images of life at the time.
Diana from Claremont says:I spent much of my childhood in Denmark where this novel is set. I feel the novel captures the essence of this beautiful small town and the characters he created were very real and true to the time and place. Simply loved it.
Lynn from Claremont says:Writing about TB and polio and the importance of vaccinations. The devastating impact on people.
By Graeme Simsion
Lynn from Claremont says:The blue sky in Perth/WA compared to Manchester. He writes about the sky so beautifully.
Sharon from Harvey says:It makes me appreciate the challenges our state has faced in the past and recognise the privilege we now have.
By Elizabeth Jolly
Lynn from Claremont says:So beautiful the way she wrote about the jacaranda trees.
Dallas from Lesmurdie says:Makes me feel how easy going and laconic we all are. Loved the crab in the exhaust pipe.
John from Perth says:Brilliant book of the characters and places of early WA
Michelle from Noranda says:It's great to recognise your hometown in a book... And noone quite describes things like our very own Tim Winton. The suburbs, the streets, the houses, the river... Family and hardships during tough times. It's all there
Cherie from Mt pleasant says:Great spirit of the place. Wonderful to recognise the sea, the sky the river the houses and places described. Great to read about people and places and familiar places - home. Also love how Tim's prose feels like poetry
Marilyn from Church lands says:A very powerful and evocative novel that uses the landscape in Geraldton to explore growing up during the war years. Great descriptive writing that makes you feel smell the is a W.A. landscape
Marilyn from Churchlands says:I like the way this novel explores the social and cultural norms of the 40s 50s and 60s in W.A. Places come alive for me especially since I grew up in Perth Crawley Subiaco Margaret River and Geraldton. Attitudes and values of the time construct it through interesting characters
Anita from Subiaco says:Nostalgic about years gone by
Charlotte from Fremantle says:I grew up reading this book and it has shaped the way I think and feel about the WA coast, the ocean and my experiences with them.
Sarah from Fremantle says:I could picture exactly where it was taking place
By Peter Docker
Sandra Angela from Padbury says:Remind me of my childhood in Boulder/Kalgoorlie. Very evocative. One part when he is walking to the Kalgoorlie hospital made me feel I was walking beside him - I knew every stone in the road
Barbara from Wembley says:I came from outside WA. Reading about WA gives me a sense of identity.
Mitzi from North beach says:When I read how the protaganist was calling his ex-wife from a phone box in the town of Wiluna (WASHINGTON) it evoked the small town desolation and isolation I fely growing up in those towns such powerful language.
By AC/DC
Ben from Kallaroo says:Reminds me of the old days watching bands at the Raffles travelling along Canning Highway (highway to hell)
Petra-Leanne from Wembley Downs says:A wonderful period piece of WA history against the enduring landscape of WA. Geraldton coats and hinterland. The impact of of landscape and location on early character development
By Robet drewe
Leonie from Mount pleasant says:This novel evoked memories of Perth in the late 60s as of remote city of virtual innocence naivete A serial killer created havoc and change the city for ever. The number for images of sundrenched days at the beach and other outdoor activities particulars to W.A. of that era
Sue from Bull Creek says:Tim is so passionate about the environment, the land and ocean you actually feel like you are living the story and the people when you read Dirt Music. Everything from the characters, the place, the music resonated with me throughout the book. Such a great promotion for our beautiful Western Australian life.
By Cori Brooke
Esther from Tom Price says:It captures the spirit of the outback and the tough, ruggard climate in which we live, while poignantly hopeful for the future.
By James Ricks
Kylie from Riverton says:A searing account of the rough and tumble of life in country WA
Brendan from Riverton says:Overall Sally's account of growing up in Perth in the 1960's and 70's with the overt and subliminal racism of the time.
Brigid from Vasse says:The stories highlight the sometimes brutal existence of people in small towns across Western Australia. It shows how context can define you, through no fault of your own, and how excruciatingly difficult it can be to move away from that which defines you.
Elaine from Brookton says:This book embodied the feeling and experience of living in a small regional town in West Australia. The small mindedness of some town folk, the easy life, the nearness of nature, the trials of life.
Lynmari from Iluka says:This novel brings to light the beauty, but also drama, that can be found in a place often perceived as mundane. There are moments captured in this text where extraordinary events and heartbreaking moments brought my dreamy ideas about our existence into reality. This novel reveals something true about the connection between the people in Western Australia. We bond over the same simple pleasures and we all face the same heart wrenching struggles. The combination of humor and tragedy in one small community made me consider the hardships faced by the people in my life, and the atmosphere of a small town that truly exists here in Perth.
By Mohamed Massoud Morsi
Martin from 6000 says:It reminded me how we take life for granted in this town, in this state, in this country. We have no idea how lucky we are. I wish you'd stop making everything so bloody fluffy but guess that's the "spirit of WA"...
By ROBYN DAVIDSON
ANA from MEADOW SPRINGS says:I read this book many years before I came to Australia but Robyn's words did spark something inside me and now here I am, writing about what made me fall in love with a place I hadn't yet seen. Robyn starts her trip in Alice Springs and finishes it a few kilometres west of Woodleigh (near Geraldton). Her work is amazing from start to finish but my favourite pages were the ones about Western Australia.
Kathleen from Fremantle says:I have been a fan of The Waifs ever since they drifted onto the national music scene two and a half decades ago. I never thought about them being from WA until I myself moved here about 12 years ago, living in Freo since then - the setting of one of my favourite songs from The Waifs, Bridal Train. It's a story set in a not so distant time, in a place I am now acutely familiar with and involving the mash-up of humans that inhabit the place. This State is full of blown-in's, myself included as well as all the US service personnel during WWII ('Over-paid, over-sexed and over here!', as my Grandad would have said) and then some. It's a mixed bag and it makes this place more the richer for it.
By Tim Minchin
Claire from Warnbro says:It's a quintessential Australian Christmas song.
By Wirlomin Noongar Language & Stories Project
Marlia from Nedlands says:The Wirlomin Noongar Language & Stories Project is an incredible community driven initiative. I feel privileged to have been exposed to this beautiful story of Dwoort Baal Kaat. From the illustrations to reading in Noongar and translated in English, this wonderful story of the relationship between human, dog, seal and environment is one of depth, knowing country and creation. Aboriginal language and stories speak to the profound wisdom and understanding (on many levels) of this place, Western Australia.
By Anthony Eaton
Leah from East Victoria Park says:It made me appreciate the history of the south west of WA. I was unaware of the WA prisoner of war camps of World War II. Fireshadow also evokes a strong sense of place, containing stark imagery of the Australian bush. I could see the cockatoos, smell the aromatic eucalyptus leaves and feel the hot dry air.
By Beni Bjah
Marlia from Nedlands says:This song makes me feel proud to be part of an incredibly strong people who have survived despite enduring the ugly impacts of colonisation. Specific lyrics bring awareness to real issues happening in WA especially relating to industries like mining, ancestral country and the Aboriginal experience in a colonial world.
By Ruth Park
Meleva from Dianella says:As a West Australian; the determination, personal growth, and love the heroine demonstrates in the novel are qualities I both admire and identify with, and believe Western Australia cherishes too.
By The Pigram Brothers
Michelle from Baldivis says:Listening to this song, evokes the history of the Kimberly area from the times of the early pearling industry in the area. The Pigram brothers, from Broome, sing in language in parts, make reference to the Japanese living in the area and sing of a saltwater cowboy sailing home after being burdoned with a copper diving helmet and lead weight boots on the pearling luggers. This song evokes images of their home, the saltwater country and a sense of hardships from the early pearling industry in Western Australia.
Helena from Greenmount says:I loved this book as a kid, growing up in the Eastern States, perhaps it's part of the reason I've made my home in the Perth Hills, they feel familiar from this much-read, very silly, super funny book.
By merab tauman
richard from perth-nedlands says:the biography of C.Y.Oconnor evokes the feeling of a man totally committed to W.A.s progress.His creation of the mouth of W.A{Fremantle Harbour}& his feeding the heart of W.A{The water pipeline to Kalgoolie}is truly an achievement to be held in the highest regard.
By Paul Carter
Kellie from West Leederville says:It made me feel like I was not alone, that many people from an isolated place like perth or greater WA feel the need to escape and see the world and come home with and an adventure to tell but ultimately they discover WA and being western Australian is the best part of who you are.
Sarah from Mount Hawthorn says:This book gave me an extraordinary insight into one man’s life from Western Australia. He describes rural life in WA and aspects of life and hardships during the war.
By Boat Show (Band)
Karen from South Perth says:The lyrics in this song speak about living in Perth and all your friends are moving to Melbourne. The band Boat Show are in their twenties and this reminds me of when I was also at this age with all my friends moving to Melbourne. Perth has always been given a reputation of being 'sleepy' and 'boring' for young people. The title 'Big Smoke' refers to Melbourne and the lyrics then go on to say the friends will move back in two weeks time, which happened with a lot of people I know who moved. Many bands have moved to Melbourne to 'make it' but soon realise the isolation and distance from other major cities they experienced in Perth is exactly what makes a diverse and unique music scene so successful and appealing to the rest of the world. Boat Show seem to share my thoughts that WA is worth staying in.
By Kevin Parker (Pond)
Claire from Maylands says:This song bucks the trend in telling Western Australian folk lore, turning the focus away from the beauty of the country, to focus on the issues of the world's most isolated city, Perth. With acknowledgement to Fremantle, the Roe 8 Highway extension, Gina Rhineheart and Black Swans, it paints a real picture of contemporary WA life, our history and current events. This song resonates with me as a person who has grown up in Perth over the last 40 years and watched the landscape be forever changed with massive urban sprawl. While the artistic and cultural shift we've seen throughout the city and urban centres in the last 5-10 years has vastly improved and now brings all sorts of interesting people and activities that has certainly blown away the old stereotype of "dullsville". I'm never moving to Melbourne!
By May Vivienne
Sheila from Inglewood says:Very early travel writing from Western Australia. It is faithful in capturing the energy, ingenuity and optimism of those living in WA in the early 1900s. The descriptions are detailed and paint a wonderfully vivid picture which is almost recognisable today. Partly sad for WA, as you miss the way things could have been if done differently.
By Ellisha Majid and Peter Kendall
Nicole from Subiaco says:I love that the whacky illustrations. Reading this book as a kid always made me think "what if my breakfast walked out on me?". This book sends me back to my childhood growing up in Western Australia and how reading it would ignite my imagination.
By John Bailey
Anne from Inglewood says:This books paints a wonderful picture of a town and it's diverse people at an important time in it's history. I was amazed by the descriptions of the hardships and successes of the people who were living and working in Broome in the early 1900s, and how these created the town we know today.
By Annie Hetherington
Alana from Perth says:I can think of no better place to raise children than our home in Western Australia. The profound beauty and freedom of childhood resonates perfectly with the wonders of the natural world. WA is of course abundant in Mother Earth's most glorious treasures and this poem is a poignant reminder of the joy inherent in arresting our over-scheduled lives to fall into their peace and rejuvenation.
By Jenny Keast ( deceased)
David from Hacketts Gully says:This a book written largely from interviews both verbal or recorded. It is an account of the Italian settlement of the Kalamunda, Pickering brook areas East of Perth. It is often sad and shows how difficult the early life of the Italian migrant was in WA. It was published in 1987 by the Kalamunda and Districts Historical Society [ National Library card Number and ISBN 0 9592755 1 7
By Jennifer Langley-Kemp
Mary from Roleystone says:The poem 'Waterbush' makes me realise afresh that the rugged beauty of our native bush is glorious and just as much to be celebrated as any manicured European garden. It is a very visual poem, with references to bees and amber and brown: the colours of WA's stunningly beautiful bush.
By Peter Forrestal and Ray Jordan
Scott from Belmont says:It accurately portrays Margaret River's colourful region in all it's beautiful glory!
By Norman Jorgensen
David from Melbourne (previously East Perth) says:Jack’s Island provoked thought of WA’s involvement in WW2 and the history of Rottnest Island which is currently typically known as a holiday place.
By George Counsel retired WA farmer
Patricia from Banksia Grove says:In 3 volumes the author describes his understanding of the beginnings of Western Australia
By robert drewe
sue from denmark says:This evocative memoir reinforces and celebrates my upbringing in a coastal suburb of Perth. The ubiquitous sand and strange claustrophobia which pervaded our isolated city of Perth is potrayed through the eyes of a young narrator new to the West. I didn't know much about the serial killings of the time and this narrative strand added an eerie tone to the memories of my youth "in the dunes".
By Sara Foster
Geoff from Atwell says:Shallow Beath is a drama that jumps around through time and characters based around WA’s coastline around Two Rocks. Foster manages to pull song nostalgic memories of the aquatic theme park Atlantis and coastal locations such as Monkey Mia through the story that appealed to my connection to WA’s beautiful coast.
Darne from Bull Creek says:There are many beautiful and some grim reminders of life in WA from the beautiful south of the State to the dangers posed by our country roads. This work is quintessential Western Australian literature in every scene.
Frances from Bicton says:The plot and innocence of the child protagonists captures the both weird (and quite frankly, eerie) aesthetics of the WA Wheatbelt and it’s dangers.
Tobias from Mount Magnet says:An iconic tale from childhood, that reminds us about our childhood connections to the ocean and the life that surrounds us here in WA and is so important to so many West Aussies.
By Jenny Davis produced by Diane Pope
jan from cottedsloe says:Watching the story by actors telling it was particularly special (in a barn at Enderslea Farm), being in the setting where it took place. It told a lot about the lives of early settlers.
Amelia from Aubin Grove says:Silvey portrays the Australian community through a small country town. It gives readers, including myself, a way to view the community and see what it is like to be in Australia. I feel the book represents Australian life very well.
Gerard from Claremont says:The wistful pensive longing, captured in that quintessential west coast folk roots sound, evokes long drives, framed by blue water, red sand and yellow sun...
By Banjo Patterson
Briarley from Dianella says:Waltzing Matilda, it's a bush ballad, and where is there better bush than WA? Nowhere, that's where. Whenever I hear the song, I always picture it taking place near my friend's block in Lancelin, where it's surrounded by bush and there was an actual billabong off the main river over the road when I visited.
Naomi from Quinns Rocks says:Living in various areas of regional WA, I can see similarities to the text and reality. The text depects racism within a community towards particular groups. I feel this is still relevant to current times. There is still a problem with racism in our communities, and reading Jasper Jones you can make those connections to something you've seen or heard on the streets. However, with that said, at the Australia Day ceremony in Perth I've noticed that we have more Charlie Bucktin's in Western Australia; more understanding and accepting characters. Having more people like Charlie Bucktin helping the Jasper Jones of Western Australia, gives me hope that we can rid of the racism we are still facing today.
Catherine from Wembley says:This emotive song (from Albany folk band the waifs) reminds me of home, and of being away from home. The lyrics resonate with images of red soil, sunsets and mangos. It’s underlying message is to be present, where you and appreciate every moment. Be that a place or a point in time. We played this song at our wedding, it reminds me of late afternoons spent at the beach in summer and is always a good reminder to ‘take it in’.
By Angus and Julia Stone
Susana from Parmelia says:This song serves as a reminder that happiness is linked to intrinsic values not extrinsic factors such as private lawns. I love the “Windy City” that is Perth - it’s proximity to gorgeous beaches, awe inspiring forests and surreal landscapes - but am also aware of materialistic values that threaten to distract us from what we should really protect and cherish.
Luke from West Leederville says:It made me feel pride for the rich history of WA and it’s connection to family, community and the environment.
Emma from Wyalkatchem says:It reminds me of our Western Asustralian spirit of overcoming the odds and of battlers who make our state great. The physical beauty too, of our amazing state, is shown so well in the novel.
Temily from Bunbury says:The slowly forming relationship between the young couple and their Neighbours gets me every time. This and the symbolism used to explore it are gorgeous and the message is something we should learn from and cherish. The idea that we can learn from and gain things from other cultures, should be at the heart of WA, if not Aus. Plus beautiful descriptions of seasons.
By A.J Betts
Temily from Bunbury says:Zac and Mia by A.J Betts may be Y.A but the way she captures the urban and rural life of WA, as well as the struggles of those families that need to make the sacrifice and the trek to Perth for their children resonated with me and my experience teaching in the south west. I adored the description of Zac’s farm, as it mirrors so many down this way. Gorgeous novel. That, or Neighbours by Tim Winton, remain my favorites. Neighbours is beautiful in how it constructs the forming relationship.
Janie-Lee from Beeliar says:Makes me glad to be Aussie, he's intelligent, a father, a comedian, a political commentator. What more do we need!?
Nichole from Dalyellup says:I love the imagery of post war Australia. The streets of mount lawley are so vivid and the characters are so quintessentially Western Australian. Every time I drive to Perth I can visualise Quick rowing that little dinghy from crawley and Fish saying "the water, the water."
By Craig silvi
Daniel from Beeliar says:Good book of post Vietnam WA and country culture and attitude at the time.
By Scott Guerini
Nicole from Alkimos says:It makes me feel proud to see the support a community can give to someone to help them achieve amazing things. It makes me think how lucky we are to be a part of this iconic Western Australian cause and the difference made when all Western Australians come together to be a part of the Telethon Weekend.
By Stephen Kinnane
Janet from Bayswater says:A moving story of three generations of his family including his own which made the aboriginal experience of displacement and marginalisation very real for me in local urban landmarks.
Graham from North Perth says:what a man !!at age 86 he published his one and only work. Of an extraordinary life. Impoverished,uneducated,and illiterate. He suffered the depression and war and as a pioneer and settler he endured the harshness of early Western Australia. He touched my soul -A man among men.
Mary from Sorrento says:It is in the peoples voices that the images of Western Australia come to life.Each persons history tells a story of the great melting pot pf humans that have made this state what it is.Look around you and see the languages written on cafes and shops fronts that tell how Western Australia is home to many nations who call it home. Go into a country graveyard, over run with broken head stones, stand and read the histories , these pioneers who made Western Australia what it is.Tim Winton and all writers are the inheritors of their histories and that make their writing a homage to their lives and to Western Australia
Rose from Burswood says:It really is who we are, a multicultural society, with our dreams of an exciting future, The Golden Age is about people, about where we have come from and who we want to be, about our ability to support each other in times of need. The story compasses place, the beach, possibilities. The story of one family's struggles to fit in, to move forward, beautifully told.
Kerrin from Bibra Lake says:It took me back to my youth and how the ocean and down south were so important to me.
By Mary Durack
Tanya from Kensington says:We have been traveling around Australia in our caravan with our two small children when I started reading True North. Like Mary’s father mine too told stories of his time in the Kimberley, traveling up north and what life was like there in the 50’s and 60’s. I read this book whilst being stuck waiting a week for tyres to arrive to Kununurra. Yes that road into the Bungle Bungles took not one but two of our tyres. Was certainly an experience with a 3 and 5 year old in the back! We fell in love with the Kimberley’s, drinking mango smoothies under a canopy of mango trees, taking my children to the local school to hear an Aboriginal man play indigenous music and hear his stories and to actually experience sailing on Lake Argyle were just a few of a myriad of reasons the Kimberly’s got under my skin too.
Elaine from Gooseberry Hill says:Winton doesn't just create a setting, he brings it to life by tapping into the trinity of human, spiritual, and cultural landscapes. If you've ever lived in WA, if you know the Swan River, if you know the Nyoongar Dreaming Story, then Winton's book is reminiscent of it all. Winton taps into the raw and real nature of the everyday person, but also into the spirituality that pervades the landscape. The Swan River is as much a character in Cloudstreet as the Lambs and the Pickles. Think of Australia Day when everyone gathers along the river–people from all walks of life mingle and share a community experience. Winton taps into memories of trawling for prawns and watching the sun go down over the city when I was growing up in the 70s. You can hear WA in the language. You can see WA in the landscape. You can feel WA in the stillness of the heat of a summer night. Reading Cloudstreet takes my soul to quintessentially Western Australian places and that's why I love it.
Katheen from Manning says:This exquisitely detailed and morbidly fascinating account of the mutinous voyage of Batavia brought me back to a time when the West Australian Coast was an unspoilt and pristine landscape. The raw brutality of the Indian Ocean paled in comparison to the depravity on board that ship. I felt great empathy towards the plight of the women on board the ship, especially as my own great great great grandmother was on board the first assisted immigrant ship to WA and married the Convict No.1 from the first convict ship to WA.
Leanne from Queens Park says:Nostalgic. This book was recommended to me by a friend I will never forget. Although I am not a surfer or much of a daredevil, I felt very connected to the characters growing up in a small W.A town and the respect of the ocean.
Michael from Seville Grove says:I picture the sand dunes of Cervantes and Grey, the crayfish fishermen going out on their boats. And the warehouse... full of bums :D
Kendra from Yanchep says:I have grown up in WA by the sea, and this book reminds me of life by the sea. Growing up in WA the ocean was always a part of life, and whenever I think of this book I am reminded of our spectacular coastline and beautiful beaches we frequently visited, but that the fear of the deep was always there. It was finally conquered one day though, and the new underwater world was discovered!
Anne-Marie from Melville says:Silvey beautifully portrays a West Australian country town. We see the effect of a crime within a small community, typical of its era, of predominantly white Australians, resisting the newcomers, blaming the indigenous kid, while turning a blind eye to its own immoral behaviours. Rural landscape, small town mentality, family secrets - simmer away and draw you in.
Renee from Perth says:It was set in Fremantle and was so familiar - it felt like he was describing my home.
By FB Vickers
Richard from Canberra says:I am a longtime resident of Canberra, originally from the USA. While I believe I have a broad familiarity with eastern Australia, I've never lived or resided in WA. This novel, an unjustly forgotten masterpiece in my opinion, presents a vivid picture of life in the rural regions well north of Perth in the middle of the 20th Century, especially of the indigenous people in their efforts to relate to the mainstream society. It contains as well some wonderful passages descriptive of the land and the small towns. I should add that I am something of an advocate. I am a retired academic, and a few years ago I published an essay on this novel. It is analytical, academic, but I tried to make it a workable introduction for those who have never read The Mirage: https://www.academia.edu/4881739/_Narrating_the_Nowhere_People_F.B._Vickerss_The_Mirage_and_Half-Caste_Aboriginals_ The passage I've presented below recounts the feelings and impressions of an adolescent boy of mixed descent--a "half caste," in the parlance of the era--who is confronting his confusing and difficult social position for the first time in his life. What most impresses me is Vickers' melding of the youth's sensory impressions and actions with his troubled thoughts and emotions.
Bev from Beeliar Heights says:It makes me feel both proud and Nostalgic at what we have endured but come through in the Past and wonderful that we have such a diverse, and unique array of special animals that continue to delight both us who live here and those who visit our state.
Leonie from Willetton says:Winton's short story evokes the tension between the natural environment and development that is emblematic of WA's history. He describes how ancient processes that run deep within, have always sustained the land and its inhabitants, and how European settlement failed to recognise and understand this, clearing the bush and trying to recreate the motherland.
By Liz Birski
Sandra from Torbay says:or Any of Liz Birski's novels The small details that make our daily lives are so well captured in Liz Birski's works. We are in a time of many retirees, and their approaches to their lives and relations to families with all the diverse options are represented in her work. Layered over these details are the social issues that form the background of our culture here in the west. What better way to represent us in the now than small detail, life stories and cultural issues. In the future they will read her novels to see what life was like back then, and they will get it.
By Carla Geneve
Alexandra from Mundaring says:Carla is a new voice in West Australian music and her lyrics stem from her growing up in Albany. "Shark Net" is ostensibly about the new shark net at Middleton Beach to protect the public from Great Whites which are abundant down there, but, of course, it references other things that lurk in the deep of our Aussie adolescent experiences.
Alexandra from Mundaring says:It evokes a time in Perth history like a tightrope on which our innocence teetered; for me it represents everything I wished I had lived through in the 1960s and is a book to which I return again and again.
By Hal Colebatch
Terry from Riverton says:Evoked the Swan River, Rottnest and WA Coast
Terry from Riverton 6148 says:Evoked the Swan River, Rottnest and WA Coast
By Bill Bryson
Corina from KALLAROO says:This hilarious account makes me appreciate the friendly, easy-going, active and positive outlook we have in Australia. I loved reading a visitor's impression of my home, and was amazed that he could walk or drive so far in one day. The size of WA, and distances between towns are unexpected!
By M.L. Stedman
Corina from KALLAROO says:The poetic descriptions of WA reminds me of the harsh conditions after the First World War, but also describes the vast distances and beauty of this bountiful state.
By Alison Lester
Corina from Kallaroo says:Reminds me of long car trips with my daughters, and the excitement they felt as we visited places mentioned in the book. Beautiful memories!
Emily from Kelmscott says:As I grew up in Albany, the evocative connection to place that Scott explores from different perspectives in That Deadman Dance, was particularly striking and spoke the most of what I've always considered to be 'West Australian'. For better or worse, time and culture has unfolded dramatically since then, yet the enduring power of the sea and sky and air remains unchanged, our connection to its beauty possibly the one unifier of us all.
By Katherine Susannah Pritchard
Gwendolyn from Cable beach says:As a child growing up in a household that had Aboriginal servants and tons of stories of the old days on the cattle stations of the Kimberly, I never felt comfortable with the situation and always felt that there was another side to the stories that were only about the good times. This work spoke to me and has been a constant inspiration and point of reference ever since I first read it as a teenager.
Kate from Mount Lawley says:Set in Oombulguri, this was based on Stow's time at Forrest River Mission. So it is a complex engagement with Western Australian place, layering the politics of colonialism over an appreciation for Indigenous culture and the beauty of the natural world.
By Jenny Davis and Diane Pope
Brigida from East Fremantle says:This work gives the human dimension to the struggles of establishing Western Australia - very real and moving. Beautifully depicts the hardships of the Early Settlers in WA.
By Kylie Howarth
Laraine from Nannup says:Chip is written and illustrated by WA author Kylie Howarth and inspired by Perth beaches and the gulls that live there. It resonates with beach culture, and the much loved family tradition of fish and chips at Fremantle.
By Sean Winter
Lynda from South Perth says:The book is an investigation of the daily lives of convicts in Western Australia. The work spans the global as well as the local experience of convicts and early settlers and focuses of convictism and the Swan River Colony. I think everyone who lives in WA should know the real history of the State and the people who formed it. It is a fascinating read
By An anthology of Western Australian poets
Mike from Perth/Murdoch says:Proud of our heritage, environment and people.
Keeva from Como says:This novel evokes an outback town so clearly perhaps in the 1950s, that it is easily identified as Yalgoo. The mysterious messianic figure, the diviner, who appears in town brings promise of water, a sacrament of water, always so desperately needed in much of Western Australia. It records the development of towns through gold rushes and one easily imagines the future iron-ore towns of the northwest.
Johanne from Duncraig says:I felt the raw connection to Western Australia's unique light, smells and sounds.
Keeva from Como says:Stow captures the essence of an ancient, weathered land and the futility of imposing different values on its ancient people. The book resonates with respect and awe of the mysterious North Kimberley and its exquisite wildlife and vegetation, an area described by one of the characters as being out of this world. There is an uncomfortable reference to the massacre of aboriginals which occurred and the challenges of co-existence with them as the white man intruded on their country.
By Kim Mahood
Kate from MUNSTER says:It made me laugh because it was so true https://griffithreview.com/articles/kartiya-are-like-toyotas/
By Peter Blyth ( now living Ellleker near Albany)
Phillip from Carine says:Took you on sight as he wrote about his life after coming to Australia
William from Cottesloe says:I've often heard Perth described as a large country town, a description that I passionately disagreed with until I first traveled outside of Western Australia as a teenager. Jasper Jones perfectly captures this claustrophobic feeling of living in a place where everyone knows everyone (but certainly not everything), whilst addressing universal ideas relating to race, youth and family in a distinctively Western Australian way.
Jo from Ellenbrook says:Nothing paints a clearer picture of life in WA in the early 20th century than A Fortunate Life. The "ordinary life" that Facey believes he led, is anything but - his story is one of hardship, resilience, love, friendship and loss. Abandoned as a toddler, by 8 years old he lived the harsh life of a farm worker, he survived the horrors of war in Gallipoli, raised a family through the dark times of the depression and still considered he had lived a fortunate life. Never have I laughed and cried as much as I did when I joined Facey on his life journey. In a time when most people are worried about what they don't have, it is worth revisiting A Fortunate Life to experience true hardship, and to gain a little perspective. As Facey once said in an interview "I called it 'A Fortunate Life' because I truly believe that is what I had"
Megan from Ocean Reef says:This song always reminds me of the vastness of our State and the sense of awe at the diversity and sheer beauty of the landscape I experience every time I take a road trip in Western Australia. Living in Kalgoorlie and working as a journalist for a few years in my early ‘20s I made the trek to and from Perth many, many times but also travelled east to Laverton and south to Esperance regularly. We thought nothing of hopping in the car on Friday after work and driving four hours to the nearest beach and this song, for me, evokes memories of a beautiful, carefree time in my life where I experienced the world on my own as a young adult for the first time outside of my suburban Perth existence. Every time I take a road trip I’m reminded of this song and think how lucky we are to live in a part of the world with so much beauty just a short (or long) drive away.
By Shaun Tan
Rae from Wellard says:As a immigrant myself this graphic novel evoked memories of my own arrival in WA in 1959.
Tricia from Applecross says:Jasper Jones is Western Australia encapsulated in a fabulous gothic witty shocking tale. It has the dark secrets of the bush, the stifling attitudes of a small town to Others, whether migrants or indigenous, the heat and the boredom. But it also also the joy of a wilder barefoot childhood, the jubilation of a cricket score, the courage, cohesion and humour of children burdened by the weight of secrets and change. Evocative and so astonishingly, perfectly the spirit of our homeland.
Trish from Palmyra says:I could smell the sea, the dry earth, the bush, the trees. Tim Winton's beautiful writing was so enthralling and evocative of our wonderful Western Australian landscape.
Christine from Padbury says:I did a lot of country driving as a child and again now with my own kids and this song evokes all emotions I associate with that: emptiness - of the roads, the countryside, the sky; yearning - to reach your destination; a desperate sense of loss, loneliness and isolation; and a raw beauty that fills you to the brim.
By May Gibbs
Gillian from Fremantle says:May Gibbs spent time in Harvey in WA, where she drew much inspiration for her classic gumnut babies from the bush there. I grew up in the bush just north of Bunbury and spent much of my childhood reading her stories and making my own gumnut babies in the bushlands near our home. I still love the flowers of the gum trees, they look and smell like home.
Kate from Adelaide (originally from Albany) says:Extraordinary storytelling of an extraordinary story: a real-life account of the realities of Aboriginal life in Australia in the early 1900s. The antidote we needed to the white-washing of Australian colonial history.
Sandra from Cape Burney says:It brings out vivid memories of Rottnest Island, which is a favourite holiday destination.
Francesca from Kallaroo says:The author Joan London, explains and describes so beautifully and intelligently what we see in the country side. The country side is a character in itself. I am in awe at how she describes it...as it can be so difficult to put into words and do it justice.
By Jenny Davis
Rebecca from North Perth says:I didn't know a great deal about the artistic life of Perth in the 1920s or of how important the centenary celebrations were to West Australians in 1929. And most importantly, the play deals with the lives of West Australian women, their interests and concerns- women in education, the arts and politics, forward looking women who are largely forgotten today.
By Katherine Susannah Prichard
Fay from Perth says:It's a powerful story of how the discovery of gold has made our state the distinctive place that it is. The myths of riches and happiness continue in a state known as The Golden State. Without the discovery of gold the colonial settlement would have failed. Instead it has meant a good life in the sun for countless people from all corners of the world and it's unique natural assets continue to provide that good life going forward to a more inclusive community.
Megan from Bentley says:The pull of the sea is a familiar feeling for many who have grown up in WA. The coast and our ocean's inhabitants need to be protected so many other generations of Western Australians can experience the same feeling.
Anne from Merriwa says:I do this book with my Year 7 students in English. They love the book. It provides a window for them into a previous time in Western Australia's history as well as an understanding of life on Rottnest.
By Norm Jorgensen
Gail from Kinross WA says:Proud of heritage
Zoe from Bassendean says:It inspired empathy and greater understanding of aboriginal histories I felt were hidden. It made me more conscious of where I lived and the opportunities for change and possibilities. And that I could be part of that.
By TAG Hungerford
Alex from Northbridge says:Most of my childhood reading was set in the uk so it was wonderful to read about places I knew.
Lee from Cocos Keeling Islands says:The emotions of the troops leaving Australia, many of them for the last time never to return through the eyes of a young girl. An amazing story of the hardships of life and emotions at that time.
Lee from Cocos Keeling Islands says:Life on Rotto before it was developed. Simple and honest.
Cindy from Iluka says:Excited about our past!
Bruce from Dalkeith says:Helped me appreciate the difficulties settler women in particular experienced being so alone for so long.
Jennifer from Churchlands says:Set at Rottnest Island the fictional story follows true tales of adventure of Norman’s father who lived there as a boy during WW11.
Marie from Winthrop says:Rottnest Island is a favourite with all West Australians and now international tourists. The book emanates from a time of uncertainty yet the carefree adventures of boys shines through. The family comes first!
Denise from Woodvale says:Based on Rottnest Island and the real life of the author's father, this novel added another perspective to the rich and diverse history of this tiny place. Despite being a children's book, any reader could be caught up in the simple yet adventurous story of boy's life during the World War II era, where even the sleepy, simple and remote town of Perth & Rottnest feel the impact of global events. A visit to Rottnest allows you to "stand in the story" - and relive a tiny slice of someone's personal history.
Astrid from South Fremantle says:Rottnest Island, where the story takes place, is a special place for me. In this story we learn about an era on the island long gone and I've thought differently about Rottnest after reading this book.
Russell from Palmyra says:Others are very good - Shark Net, Merry-go-round in the Sea - but the simple tragedy of Coonardoo creates something sensitive in you forever.
By A.B Facey
Emily Jane from Nedlands says:Like I was lucky to have been able to live in WA for the past 5 years
By Jimmy Chi
Rosemary from Mt Lawley says:Bran Nue Dae was such a joyous, mind expanding and memorable experience when I saw it at the Octagon Theatre in 1990. No more cultural cringe. Western Australians' could create, act and produce a wonderful piece of theatre. Made me aware of the depth of talent in the indigenous community. Festival of Perth should be celebrated for broadening the outlook of the most isolated city in the world.
By George Fletcher Moore
Annette from Innaloo says:Immensely proud of the brave pioneers who came to WA and perservered through great hardship to establish the Swan River Colony
Katie from Scarborough says:Makes me want to drive the WA roads
By Robert Drewe and Tim Winton
Helen from Shelley says:Quintessentially West Australian that these "beach boys" have such an affinity for our waters that feature in their works and lives
Trish from Mount Lawley says:First heard this album when I was lived in Sydney. At the time it evoked impressions of WA: shimmery heat haze; people being to hot to move; ominous feelings of being a tiny speck in a vast space; quietness; loneliness; and massive big skies. Now I live here I often listen to the album on road trips - perfect soundtrack for Western Australia.
Jehan from Currambine says:It evoked a love for our coastal lifestyle that is uniquely ours that is passed through from generations before. The beautiful Albany beach is featured in this book and the relationship between our people and surroundings.The gorgeous illustration by Karen Blair brings this book to life and captures the beauty of our coast.
Simone from Floreat says:In my view nobody can describe the essence of the Western Australian landscape and our relationship to our coastline like Tim Winton. The way in which he describes the landscape in this book (and also 'Island Home: A Landscape Memoir') resonates with my soul and brings back so many memories from my own childhood growing up in Western Australia.
Pam from Ardross says:Beautiful portrayal of Western Australian ocean and childhood in WA
By Midnight Oil
Jodie from Noranda says:Although Wittenoom is a sad chapter in our state history the song reflects how much mining is apart of our landscape in the north and makes me reflect on how its an integral part of who we are as a state. Beautiful riches in the ground can also have devastating effects on those brave enough to mine them.
Gabriela from Karrinyup says:It made me rethink what we may be ashamed and proud of. How intersected these are. The people which we judge or avoid can just as easily be the people we love. The people we love can just as easily be someone we avoid. The ocean which is the epitome of much West Australian life is also home to homeless, bike thefts and danger. There is beauty and fear everywhere there are people.
Tony from North Perth says:I read this book as a 20 year old in Ireland, and loved the chapter with Bill getting lost, wandering through the streets of Perth, visiting places like King's Park. That seed was planted and i would soon visit Perth... only to end up living here 20 years later.
By D.H. Lawrence
Elizabeth from South Perth says:It describes the sense of foreboding you can feel when walking in the Western Australian bush alone, at night. The untamed wildness of the place and fear of what may be lurking in the shadows.
Caroline from Mosman park says:As I read this book I lived in West Leederville and felt as if I was living in the street where it all happened
By Glenn Swift
Glenn from Fremantle says:It's a West Australian story. It couldn't happen anywhere else.
By A.B. Facey
Michelle from Hamilton Hill says:Western Australia is known for its harsh and demanding environment. My grandfather was a part of that dry and parched land when he was born out at Southern Cross in the early 1900's. This novel was part of my Year 11 high school English course. The story of the struggle and resilience of the main character has stayed with me since. We can choose to see our lives (like our land), harsh and unforgiving, or we can see our lives through grateful and courageous eyes.
By Several authors: Tinashe Jakwa, Rafeif Ismail
Marisa from South Perth says:I felt it better represented the people who live in WA and it gave diverse people a voice. We have a lot of diversity here but the people we see in our literature doesn't reflect that and that needs to change. It was an honour to read stories by African migrants and refugees living, working and writing in WA.
Poliany from Bedford says:It gave me the feeling of the relationship between the environment and the people. It just filled my senses with this understanding.
Nieves from Seville Grove says:Knowing the places in the book, I can imagine the Aboriginal people and see their suffering
Brendan from Bassendean says:It is Western Australia!
Karen from Redcliffe says:Love to read about Perth in fictional stories.There aren't many but this is the best. Its about a time in my life that's a little similar in part.
By Dave Warner
Karen from Redcliffe says:Dave writes just the way we speak about things that happen in our lives. It was fun figuring out whom the real people were in the fictional story. It's particularly great to read about your hometown
By Roger Palmer
Roger from South Yunderup says:This work makes me think of the freedom I enjoyed growing up in the rural town of Harvey
Roger from South Yunderup says:This work evokes suggestions of the hard life our early pioneers faced in living in and developing Western Australia
By Pavement
Erika from Northbridge says:I love the idea that a young, internationally known indie band visited Perth on tour and loved it so much they named a song after it.
By Campbell whyte
James from Palmyra says:It evoked the mysterious landscapes of WA, and the strange relationship that white australia has with the land a small opposed to Aboriginal peoples.
By Brenna Darcy
Caitlyn from Stoneville says:The spirit of small towns, and the support of small communities, rung true in The Pact. Set in Margaret River, it made me feel at home and connected to a place I've visited often. A story that pulled at the heartstrings and elicited such conflicting emotions all at once.
Murray from Como says:It dramatised much of my inherited history of the goldfields, my grandparents having come from the Victorian 'fields to the Coolgardie Rush in 1892 and lived in a hessian humpy on Fly Flat before moving to Kalgoorlie. One of the shady characters, Frisco Joe, is rumoured to be based on Claude De Bernales who made his fortune there and who built Overton Lodge (now the Cottesloe Civic Centre) overlooking Gage Roads.
By Pond
Raewyn from Palmyra says:It gives me hope when young musicians write songs that reveal their respect for indigenous people and their desire for reconciliation, and it gives me a sense of belonging as I sit here by my fan, up the road from the jail built by convict hands, and I feel glad to live somewhere so unique, so peopled by creative souls, but I feel the anger in the song as well, and the tyranny of isolation, while at the same time I appreciate that great art is born of conservatism and extreme.
Joanna from Glendalough says:I read this when living overseas in a very different country and culture (Israel), and it took me home again, to the landscape and country of my birth. It provided a snapshot of a particular time in history, and gave me an understanding of my father's childhood in Geraldton.
By Various - Published by Serenity Press
Carolyn from Mundaring says:This is an anthology of six love stories based in the beachside town of Rockingham. A lot of my childhood was spent in Rockingham and it was fun to read about so many of the landmarks I remember growing up.
Irene from Lower King says:'In the Winter Dark' is an early one from Tim Winton, and evokes the wildness, the power, the unknown, sometimes the threat, inherent in the WA bush. Freaked me out when I first read it - still freaks me out close to forty years later.
By Dorothy Hewitt
Sally from Perth/Nedlands says:Uniquely Western Australian playwriting voice. Captures the characters, mood and the feeling of a regional town in WA wheatbelt.
By Peter Cowan
Dianne from Tapping says:Cowan's description of landscape makes you feel like you are there, witnessing it. I live in the city now, but spent most of my childhood in country towns - it took me back and made me feel a connection with the world and character's he'd created. Later, on reflection, it also made me feel angry/sad as I then found out that much of Cowan's work is now out of print and isn't being shared with new generations of readers. He was the "Tim Winton" of his time and in my opinion, the Museum should make sure his memory and works are resurrected and given the kudos they deserve.
Rashida from Leeming says:Perth is a non fictional biography of my city. It captures everything I know and much that I didn't. It would be a cliche to call it a love letter to a city but it is that and more.
Jan from Maylands says:Set on Rottnest Island, where Jack's family is based during WWII, this is an exciting and entertaining adventure. It evokes memories of a simpler time in life and readers who visit the island will recognise many of the landmarks and distinctive locations in the story.
By Various
Tania from Kalamunda says:The WA Shakespeare Society published a book of sonnets about WA, 2 years ago. They were entries in a competition. Each sonnet related to different aspects of WA. Each touched a different emotion.
Libby from Highgate says:The Waifs write from a West Australian perspective: about places, people and experiences lived and shared. The feel of this song transports me to driving down south, the accents are unmistakable and it actively slows down my tempo.
Steven from Mount Melville says:Hopeful for what could have been. Sad and angry about what is. Determined to help regardless of how futile and small my actions may feel.
By Simon Niels
Jenny from Hilton says:It was written about the beautiful weedy sea dragons off Cottesloe Beach. It is evocative of our coastal landscape and the unique spirit and creativity of Western Australians.
Renae from Coolbinia says:I read Dirt Music just before going on holiday to Broome and Derby. I was so taken by the way Tim Winton wrote about the red pindan dirt, the blinding white sand of the dunes and the milky blue water of the bay. When I eventually got there I felt like I knew the place. His writing evokes the all the senses when he describes WA. The heat, the vast spaces, the smells and the landscape.
By Sam Carmody
James from Geraldton says:The Windy Season is an exciting mystery/thriller written about a fictional fishing town called Stark on the Western Australian coast. It is a book very hard to put down with several stories going on at once with a variety of characters that resemble most small town folk in Australia especially WA if not around the world. The issues and stories written about are timeless but also reflect on current day trends as well. Having lived in several small communities in Victoria and WA, and also spending a fair bit of time in 'Stark', the characters were easy to put a face to! A well deserved 'Readings Prize' winner and could be the next Tim Winton!
Sarah from Bedford says:The visceral description of the unrelenting heat reminds me of my first Perth summer, walking through Subiaco where I first lived and how new everything was to me.
By The Stems
Elizabeth from Mount Lawley says:It takes me back to teenage summers at Cottesloe beach, but also reminds me of a fabulous period of local music in some of Perth's old band venues.
By Frances Macaulay Forde
Frances from Heathridge says:A poem I wrote about my home; how we treat it; not listening to those who came before.
Elaine from Pemberton says:It reminded me of my childhood growing up in Doubleview and spending time at Scarborough Beach during the hot summers.
By Demelza Carlton
Sasha from Darlington says:1926 WA, catching crabs, romance and immigration. What's not WA about that?
By Killing Heidi
Sasha from Darlington says:It mentions the Mundaring Weir which was a big part of my life, whether it was a school excursion to learn about CY O'Connor or a family picnic - or even a late night drive with teenage friends.
By Claire Boston
Demelza from Murdoch says:This book takes me back to the Rockingham beach shacks, all along the coast, I remember from my childhood.
By Jenny Schwartz
Demelza from Murdoch says:This tale perfectly evokes the incredible healing you can only get from a holiday in WA's South West.
By Lisa Swallow
Demelza from Murdoch says:Perth people always come back to the water - in good times and bad, it's always the beach, the Indian Ocean, we come to. This book encapsulates that perfectly.
By Sasha Wasley
Demelza from Murdoch says:It perfectly captures the station lifestyle in the remote north, the sense of family and love that keeps those communities alive.
By John McBain
John from South Perth says:It captures a historical perspective of WA whilst recognising the role of our First Nations' peoples.
Fleur from Thornlie says:It highlights our relationship and dependence on water to open up the inland Goldfields region
Meg from Roleystone says:The weather. The relentless hot summer days where doing anything seems too hard.
Rowan from Swan View says:Nothing reminds me of growing up in Perth in the 70s and 80s like this song. Can smell the beach, feel the sand and hear the waves.
Freya from Surry Hills Sydney says:I grew up in WA, the first time I moved away in the 80's, it was too expensive back then to fly to the Eastern States, we all caught the bus or train, this song reminds me of the mass exodus of my friends that would happen every couple of years - the long journey, out of the state, but also the wide open roads / long distances travell around WA, especially between Perth and Greenough/ Geraldton. When I hear this song I always think of WA, wide open spaces but also the unique and great music made by Western Australians in the late 70's early 80's.. When I hear Wide Open Road by The Triffids I get homesick, I also think that this song is the unofficial state anthem ( for my generation anyway)
By Tom "Crosscut" Wilson
John from Falcon says:It captures the pioneering atmosphere of the goldfields and the outback.
Jodie from Silver Sands says:Every song and the cover remind me of WA.
Meg from Roleystone says:The heat and fires in summertime. The desire to escape.
Meg from Roleystone says:The wide spaces and big sky. Long distances to travel.
Amy from Inglewood says:The simple and graceful language paints a beautiful yet subtle picture of a childhood and coming of age in Western Australia. The smells and sensations of the young boy's Western Australian summer experiences are so well written, you can feel them yourself. The book also made me consider the character of Western Australia. It is portrayed as an innocent and yet a frontier place.
By M. L. Stedman
Caitlin from Mount Lalwey says:The distance from the rest of Australia was something that I could relate to in the book.