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best new books

2023 has a given us a stack of reads that have transported, nurtured, and inspired us, here are the best

As we bid farewell to 2023, we’re taking a peek at some noteworthy releases from the year. Whether it’s a touching memoir, eye-opening nonfiction, or a suspenseful thriller, there’s nothing quite like the anticipation of flipping through a fresh book.

The simple joy of discovering new stories and perspectives is what makes the reading experience special. So, let’s unwind and reflect on the gems that made this year’s literary journey memorable.

celebrity reading

 

Songs From The Kitchen Table: Archie Roach & Ruby Hunter

Since his departure, Archie Roach’s legacy soars like the wedge-tailed eagle, his totem animal from his mother’s ancestral lands. Songs from the Kitchen Table pays tribute to the enduring influence of Archie’s voice and the musical love shared with his life partner, Ruby Hunter. This illustrated masterpiece, curated by Archie’s manager and friend, Jill Shelton, unveils the lyrics to over a hundred of their songs.

From the poignant ‘Took the Children Away’ and ‘Charcoal Lane’ to timeless classics like ‘Tell Me Why,’ Ruby’s ‘Down City Streets,’ and Archie’s final masterpiece, ‘One Song,’ each lyric is a poignant narrative accompanied by stories of composition, rare photographs, original artwork, and heartfelt tributes.

 

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archie roach songs from the kitchen table

SONGS FROM THE KITCHEN TABLE
ARCHIE ROACH & RUBY HUNTER

 

 

Ken Whisson: Painting & Drawing: Quentin Sprague

Ken Whisson (1927-2022) was an iconic figure in Australian art, known for his idiosyncratic approach spanning seven decades. The 2012 retrospective, “Ken Whisson: Painting & Drawing,” celebrated his legacy. This comprehensive study explores Whisson’s life and work, from formative years in Melbourne to a prolonged stay in Perugia, Italy, and his 2014 return to Australia.

Illustrated with 300+ plates and enriched by interviews and archival research, it unveils an artist driven by memory and a profound trust in creative instinct. Whisson’s body of work stands as a unique and enduring contribution to the tapestry of Australian art.

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ken whisson

KEN WHISSON
QUENTIN SPRAGUE

 

 

The Woman In Me: Britney Spears

“The Woman in Me” is an incredibly gutsy and heartrending saga of freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith, and hope. Back in June 2021, Britney Spears had the whole world hooked with her candid courtroom words.

It was a game-changer, not just for her, but for countless others. This book spills the beans on Britney’s awe-inspiring journey, showcasing the sheer grit of one of pop music’s finest. Britney’s narrative is refreshingly candid and peppered with her trademark humor. It’s a testament to the enduring magic of music, love, and the importance of a woman owning her story, finally, on her own terms.

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britney spears new book 2023

THE WOMAN IN ME
BRITNEY SPEARS

 

 

An Unexpected  Party: Seth Malacari

Co-published by Get YA Words Out and edited by Seth Malacari, ‘An Unexpected Party’ brings together fresh voices from the LGBTQIA+ community. From magical adventures to real-life challenges, this anthology breaks stereotypes, celebrating diverse identities.

With humour and heart, these stories flip the script on young adult romance, putting queer protagonists front and center. Trans, gender-diverse, asexual, aromantic, bisexual – this anthology covers it all. ‘An Unexpected Party’ is a vibrant tapestry woven with the authentic voices and experiences of these emerging authors. It’s a must-read celebration of queer narratives, bound to leave you both moved and inspired.

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an unexpected party

AN UNEXPECTED PARTY
SETH MALACARI

 

 

Sonic Life: Thurston Moore

In the pulsating heart of New York’s East Village, Thurston Moore embarked on a sonic odyssey in 1978. Yearning for the raw energy of nightclubs and the magnetic allure of the city’s music scene, Moore’s passion led to the birth of Sonic Youth in 1981, alongside Kim Gordon and Lee Ranaldo.

From avant-garde beginnings in the No Wave movement to global festival headliners, Sonic Youth’s journey paralleled the rise of alternative rock. Sonic Life, akin to Patti Smith’s Just Kids, immerses us in Moore’s creative evolution, offering a vivid snapshot of a transformative era in music. It’s a testament to the profound impact of sound on our lives.

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thurston moore sonic life

SONIC LIFE
THURSTON MOORE

 

 

Darker With the Dawn: Adam Steiner

“Darker with the Dawn” is an enthralling journey through the musical legacy of Nick Cave, a true pioneer of rock ‘n’ roll. From his raw beginnings with The Birthday Party to the otherworldly sounds of Ghosteen, Cave’s evolution is expertly dissected by Adam Steiner. This book uncovers the essence of Cave’s iconic tracks, from the intense “Tupelo” to the haunting “Higgs Boson Blues”.

Steiner’s meticulous analysis paints a vivid portrait of Cave’s life, from his Australian roots to his fascination with America’s haunting landscapes. Delving into gospel, blues, and progressive rock, Cave’s exploration of love and mortality shines through. Whether a dedicated fan or a newcomer, this book is an essential guide to Cave’s captivating artistry. Steiner’s work stands as a testament to an artist whose reflections on life and death continue to resonate deeply.

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Darker With The Dawn

DARKER WITH THE DAWN
ADAM STEINER

 

 

Salt River Road: Molly Schmidt

Molly Schmidt’s “Salt River Road” wins the 2022 City of Fremantle Hungerford Award, introducing a compelling new voice in Australian literature. Set in a 1970s small town, the novel follows the Tetley siblings grappling with loss and the disintegration of their family farm. Rose’s encounter with Noongar Elders offers a chance at healing and community.

Schmidt’s prose delicately navigates resilience, racism, and human connections. The narrative’s enduring purity shines through, a beacon amidst love, pain, and politics. A courageous debut, “Salt River Road” demands emotional investment, but the payoff is immeasurable. A must-read for fans of 1970s Australia, it’s a testament to storytelling’s enduring power.

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salt river road

SALT RIVER ROAD
MOLLY SCHMIDT

 

 

The Girl In The Band: Belinda Chapple

Belinda Chapple’s Bardot journey, a tale she’s held close for two decades, is a bittersweet ride. Back in 2000, Popstars thrust Bardot into the spotlight, and Chapple’s signature sealed the deal. The years that ensued were a whirlwind of rehearsals, studio time, and globetrotting gigs.

Bardot soared, delivering hit albums and basking in fan love. Yet, the glitz came with shadows. Loneliness and body image battles took their toll, and romance took a backseat. Trust in bandmates wavered. “The Girl in the Band” is a riveting and eye opening read, that peels back the showbiz curtain, revealing dreams both realized and shattered, a testament to Belinda Chapple’s unforgettable journey.

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belinda chapple

THE GIRL IN THE BAND
BELINDA CHAPPLE

 

 

The Disorganisation Of Celia Stone: Emma Young

Introducing Celia Stone, a driven and meticulously organized woman in her thirties, whose affinity for journaling is unparalleled. She’s got her life perfectly aligned, boasting a thriving writing career, a devoted partner, and an ironclad fitness regimen. Celia’s journey seems to be heading towards her early retirement plan, all neatly mapped out. However, when her husband raises the idea of starting a family, Celia is forced to reassess whether this new chapter might disrupt the finely tuned harmony she’s built.

Step into the pages of Celia’s diary as she embarks on a year-long voyage of self-discovery. This captivating read offers a vivid portrayal of her pursuit to find equilibrium while facing the inevitable challenges and compromises that life throws her way. It’s not just a book; it’s a raw and real exploration of the complexities of striving for balance in the face of change.

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celia stone

THE DISORGANISATION OF CELIA STONE
EMMA YOUNG

 

 

Wow It’s All A Lot: Samuel Leighton- Dore

We have found the ultimate life-affirming hug through the pages of this gem. 32 Reminders to SMILE: Meet Samuel Leighton-Dore, the artist behind the renowned ‘Smile Tiles.’ Samuel’s ceramic wonders are now featured in this self-affirming, cheeky, and relatable book, pages full of the kind of phrases, that turn therapy waiting rooms’ cold ambiance into vibrant, colorful sanctuaries. Diagnosed with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sam understands life’s fragility and imperfections. Through his art and writing, he celebrates the messy journey of existence, offering relatable, funny, and heartwarming insights into mental health and human connections—a friend’s warm hug in words. Embrace being a ‘work in progress’; it’s okay not to have it all figured out!

 

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wow its a lot tiles/book

WOW IT’S ALL A LOT
SAMUEL LEIGHTON- DORE

 

 

Lowbridge: Lucy Campbell

In Lucy Campbell’s haunting debut “Lowbridge” (Ultimo Press), an enigmatic Australian township unravels after a girl’s mysterious vanishing. Themes of memory, human bonds, and existence interweave, provoking readers to question life’s fabric. In 1987, Tess Dawes disappeared, leaving a lasting impact on Lowbridge. Outsider Katherine Ashworth, grappling with her own grief, delves into the town’s history, reigniting the enigma. Campbell portrays Lowbridge as a microcosm of the human journey, exploring empathy, vulnerability, and self-discovery amidst concealed traumas and forgotten memories.

 

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lowbridge

LOWBRIDGE
LUCY CAMPBELL

 

 

Cast Mates: Sam Twyford – Moore

Step into the enchanting world of “Cast Mates,” a group biography celebrating Australia’s acting giants. From the birth of cinema in 1906 with “The Story of the Kelly Gang” to the present pursuit of Hollywood dreams, this captivating narrative features the mesmerizing lives of icons like Errol Flynn, Peter Finch, David Gulpilil, and Nicole Kidman. Through their stellar performances in global blockbusters like “The Adventures of Robin Hood” and “Eyes Wide Shut,” discover how Australian cinema found its stride amid the ebbs and flows of history. Cast Mates exudes a delightful combination of clever wit, profound knowledge, and utterly captivating storytelling.

 

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cast mates

CAST MATES
SAM TWYFORD – MOORE

 

 

Heartbake: Charlotte Ree

Charlotte Ree’s heartfelt memoir, “Heartbake,” is alive with a fusion of personal anecdotes, tantalizing recipes, and a resounding call to embrace life’s richness, no matter the age or loneliness experienced. Through her words, Charlotte shares how cooking became her beacon of meaning and rejuvenation after a divorce upheaved her world. Each dish she masters, whether it’s a humble boiled egg or a savory ricotta and pesto ravioli in brown butter and sage sauce, weaves a story of her quest for love, self-acceptance, and healing. With poignant prose and mouthwatering descriptions, Charlotte explores family dynamics, reflects on the influence of past narratives, recounts both calamitous and charming dates, and revels in the sheer delight of sharing good food with kindred spirits, old and new.

 

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charlotte ree heartbake

HEARTBAKE
CHARLOTTE REE

 

 

Prudish Nation: Paul Dalgarno

In “Prudish Nation,” author Paul Dalgarno explores Australia’s hidden prudishness beneath its laid-back facade. Through interviews with authors and thinkers, Dalgarno uncovers the country’s history of censorship and its impact on unconventional relationships. He questions the progress of tolerance, the future outlook, and the influence of LGBTQIA+ terms. The book also tackles transitioning, queerness, and the perspectives of therapists and psychologists. “Prudish Nation” is a compelling, witty, and thought-provoking journey, illuminating the intricacies of Australia’s national character. Through its entertaining anecdotes, insightful analysis, and humorous musings, this book acts as a bedside lamp, shining a brighter light on our true selves and the ever-evolving nature of our society.

 

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PRUDISH NATION

PRUDISH NATION 
PAUL DALGARNO

 

 

Eagles: Dark Desert Highway: Mike Wall

Dive into the captivating story of ‘the American Beatles’ – The Eagles, the best-selling band in American history. From their soaring success to their dark descents, their journey blurred the lines between Hollywood highs and subterranean LA lows.

The Eagles embodied the American dream, achieving global fame and living lavish lives that seemed almost supernatural. But beneath the surface, their story took a nightmarish turn. Betrayal, arrogance, and discarded relationships littered their path as they navigated the music scene of 1970s LA, a time when sex, drugs, and music reigned supreme.

Now, esteemed music biographer Mick Wall offers an unrivaled insight into the band’s meteoric rise and the hedonistic days that defined the 70s music scene. The Eagles outsold even legendary acts like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of American music.

Get ready for an electrifying journey as Wall reveals the untold secrets and captures the essence of The Eagles, a story that has shaped musical history.

 

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Eagles - Dark Desert Highway: How America s Dream Band Turned into a Nightmare

EAGLES: DARK DESERT HIGHWAY
MICK WALL

 

 

The Signatory: Stuart Black

Stuart Black’s latest novel, The Signatory, is a gripping thriller that exposes the high-stakes world of corporate crime. Following the sale of his start-up business, protagonist Sam Pride finds himself on the run with his wife after his CFO is taken hostage and murdered by a ruthless criminal demanding a mysterious document. Black weaves a complex and intricate plot that takes readers from Sydney to Chicago and back again, following the trail of millions of missing dollars and a web of calculated corruption. Drawing from his experience as the CEO of multiple ad agencies, Black illuminates the sinister ways in which power and greed can corrupt the corporate world. The Signatory is a pulse-pounding page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

 

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STUART BLACK

THE SIGNATORY 
STUART BLACK

 

 

Honey, Baby, Mine: Laura Dern & Diane Ladd

Laura Dern and Diane Ladd’s ‘Honey, Baby, Mine’ is a soul-stirring masterpiece of unfiltered mother-daughter wisdom. With unabashed authenticity and honesty, Dern and Ladd engage in a no-holds-barred dialogue that captivates readers, delving into topics such as love, sex, marriage, divorce, art, ambition, and legacy. As Diane faces a life-threatening illness, Laura becomes her unwavering companion, and their conversations break down societal norms and familial barriers. Raw, vulnerable, and deeply personal, their candid exchanges, poignant reflections, and cherished mementos adorn the pages of this powerful book. A celebration of unfiltered communication and the beauty of leaving nothing unsaid, ‘Honey, Baby, Mine’ is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her daughter.

 

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honey baby mine laura dern book

HONEY, BABY, MINE 
LAURA DERN & DIANE LADD

 

 

Gigorou: Sasha Kutabah Sarago

In Gigorou, Sasha Kutabah Sarago boldly delves into the intricate web of beauty, femininity and identity. Through her experiences as a beauty assistant, model and magazine editor, she exposes the beauty industry’s narrow standards and how they’re informed by the patriarchal, sexist, racist and ageist structures that pervade our society. Sasha offers a refreshing perspective, one that’s grounded in Aboriginal culture and the wisdom of her matriarchs. She invites us to examine our conditioning and to reclaim our power and sovereignty. Sasha’s unique background as a Wadjanbarra Yidinji, Jirrbal and African-American woman adds depth and nuance to this important conversation. Gigorou is an essential read for anyone interested in exploring the multifaceted nature of beauty.

 

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GIGAROU

GIGOROU 
SASHA KUTABAH SARAGO

 

 

Crying in H Mart: Michelle Zauner

Freshly released in paperback, Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast band fame wrote this powerfully honest and captivating memoir in 2021 as a way to reconnect with her heritage, which she lost sight of growing up as one of the few Asian American kids at her school in Eugene, Oregon.  In this beautiful story of family, food, grief, and perseverance, Zauner shares what it took to regain a sense of herself, and her identity, whilst navigating through the pain of her mother’s diagnosis of terminal cancer and eventual passing.

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crying in h mart

CRYING IN H MART 
MICHELLE ZAUNER

 

 

Touring and Mental Health: The Music Industry Guide – Tamsin Embleton

Looking to survive the physical and psychological tolls of touring? Look no further than Touring and Mental Health, the comprehensive manual for musicians and industry professionals. Authored by top health and performance experts, this timely guide covers everything from addiction to crisis management to post-tour recovery. And with personal insights from musical heavyweights like Nile Rodgers, Katie Melua, and Will Young, Touring and Mental Health is a must-read for anyone hitting the road. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge research or practical strategies, this book has got you covered. So pick it up, pass it around the tour bus, and stay healthy on the road.

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Touring and Mental Health: The Music Industry Manual

TOURING AND MENTAL HEALTH: THE MUSIC INDUSTRY MANUAL 
TAMSIN EMBLETON

 

 

The Art of the Straight Line – Lou Reed

In The Art of the Straight Line, edited by his wife Laurie Anderson, Lou Reed’s worlds of Tai Chi, music, and meditation converge in a compelling and expansive collection. Reed, a multifaceted artist who co-founded the legendary rock band the Velvet Underground and collaborated with icons such as Andy Warhol and Metallica, also had a passion for martial arts. He studied Tai Chi under the tutelage of Chen Tai Chi pioneer Master Ren GuangYi, and this book gathers a wealth of his writings on the practice. Alongside essays, observations, and conversations with fellow artists and Tai Chi practitioners, Reed’s unpublished musings illuminate the technique, practice, and purpose of martial arts, as well as the broader themes of meditation and existence.

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lou reed the art of the straight line

THE ART OF THE STRAIGHT LINE
LOU REED

 

Leon Russell – Bill Janovitz

Leon Russell was a legendary musician who influenced countless artists, including Elton John, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Elton John, Willie Nelson, Tom Petty, and the world of music as a whole. His career was a roadmap of music history, intersecting with rock royalty like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. He struggled with substance abuse, depression, and stage fright, but still founded Shelter Records and filled stadiums on solo tours. Acclaimed author Bill Janovitz of Buffalo Tom fame shines the spotlight on this important music maker of the twentieth century with this definitive biography of the legendary musician, composer, and performer.

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Leon russell

LEON RUSSELL
BILL JANOVITZ

 

Hannah McElhinney – Rainbow History Class

Rainbow History Class illuminates the once-forgotten LGBTQ+ stories that have long been obscured by the dominant culture. Hannah McElhinney, the writer and creator behind this indispensable compendium of queer and trans history, seeks not only to educate but to inspire and to build bridges. In these pages, readers will find a treasure trove of secret codes and gender-bending icons, as well as the remarkable stories of those who have fought for LGBTQ+ rights throughout history. Rainbow History Class serves as a powerful celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and a compelling invitation for those who have newly joined its ranks. McElhinney’s work is a vital reminder that we must never forget the past if we hope to create a more just and equitable future.

 

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RAINBOW HISTORY CLASS

HANNAH MCELHINNEY
RAINBOW HISTORY CLASS

 

Martin Popoff – Pink Floyd and The Dark side of the Moon: 50 Years

Get ready to dive deep into Pink Floyd’s iconic album on its 50th anniversary. In this slipcased edition, veteran rock critic Martin Popoff explores every aspect of The Dark Side of the Moon, from its recording sessions and personnel to each track’s themes and instrumentation. Along the way, Popoff examines the band’s trajectory and impact, delving into everything from their unique writing techniques to their unforgettable album art. With stunning photos and rare memorabilia, Pink Floyd and The Dark Side of the Moon is the ultimate tribute to one of the greatest albums of all time.

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dark dise of the moon book 50 years

MARTIN POPOFF
PINK FLOYD and THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON: 50 YEARS

 

Jessica Johns – Bad Cree

A young Cree woman embarks on a perilous journey to confront the legacy of violence that haunts her family and community. Through vivid dreams and waking nightmares, Mackenzie must unravel the mystery of her sister’s death and confront the possibility that the answer has been inside her all along. But at what cost? Only a “Bad Cree” would put her family in harm’s way, but Mackenzie is determined to unlock the secrets of her past.

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bad cree

JESSICA JOHNS
BAD CREE

 

Alice Farham – Passing the Baton: Conducting in the 21st Century

Written by leading conductor Alice Farnham, the book delves into the ways in which factors such as gender, culture, and socio-economic status shape a conductor’s language, career, confidence, and even their physical presence. With a focus on female conductors, the book offers insight into the realities of the profession and the qualities necessary for success, while also serving as a thoughtful reflection on leadership. This is not a technical guide to conducting, but rather a captivating exploration of the art and its role in today’s world for music lovers and professionals alike.

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in good hands

ALICE FARNHAM
THE MAKING OF A MODERN CONDUCTOR

 

Rick Rubin – The Creative Act

Rick Rubin an American record producer, is considered one of the most successful and influential producers of all time. With his debut book, The Creative Act, Rubin illuminates the path of the artist as a journey that anyone can embark on, distilling the wisdom he has gained from his lifetime of work into a captivating reading experience that brings the power to create moments – and lifetimes – of exhilaration and transcendence closer to everyone.

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rick rubin

RICK RUBIN
THE CREATIVE ACT

 

Ronald Brownstein – Rock Me On The Water

Rock Me On The Water – 1974 – The Year Los Angeles Transformed Movies, Music, Television and Politics (now in paperback) is a standout snapshot of cultural history from Atlantic Senior Editor Ronald Brownstein – “one of America’s best political journalists” ( The Economist) tells the story of LA’s creative peak. Through film, music, and television studios around Sunset Boulevard, Brownstein shines a clear and electrifying light on the explosion of popular culture through the lens of a younger generation intent on change.

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Rock Me On The Water

RONALD BROWNSTEIN
ROCK ME ON THE WATER

 

Deepti Kapoor – Age of Vice

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age of vice

DEEPTI KAPOOR
AGE OF VICE

 

Nick Hornby – Dickens & Prince

From the bestselling author of Just Like You, High Fidelity, and Fever Pitch, a warm, and engaging short book about art, creativity, and the unlikely similarities between Victorian novelist Charles Dickens and the iconic pop star Prince. Hornby is first and foremost a fan, in many ways, this reads like a love letter, albeit, a factual one, that examines the artist’s seemingly endless professional productivity. Humorous and haunting, Hornby shines a light on the creative process, and how it takes a combination of discipline, and soul to produce great art.

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Dickens and Prince Nick Hornby

NICK HORNBY
DICKENS & PRINCE

 

Kate Scott – Compulsion

Compulsion captures the wild, hedonistic spirit of the 2000s electroclash scene and the philosophical questions that arose from it. The book, set in 2004, follows 24-year-old nihilist Lucy as she navigates the interplay between her obsession with drugs, sex, music, and books, and the turmoil caused by her pursuit of oblivion. Drawing from the author’s personal experiences in the music industry, Compulsion is about the complex journey of embracing one’s obsessions. It follows Lucy’s work as an editor for a struggling music mag, her relationships with musicians on the rise (Interpol, The Presets, Tiga) and childhood idols (Wire, The Strangers, The Bronski Beat), and the reality of dealing with a stalker.

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compulsion kate scott

KATE SCOTT
COMPULSION

 

Nats What I Reckon – Life: What Nat To Do

Musician, YouTuber, comedian, and author, Nat, best known for Nat’s What I Reckon, counts Dave Grohl, Carl Cox, and Yael Stone among his many fans. Sharing his hard-earned wisdom, Nat discusses gaps in the education system, the power of talking, and the importance of having good friends, and good partners that have your back. With humour, compassion, and a great deal of Nats What I Reckon flavour that we have come to know him for, Nat has written a great all-inclusive read, regardless of age, and gender,  Life: Nat What To Do is a book for everyone.

 

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LIFE: NAT WHAT TO DO

NATS WHAT I RECKON
LIFE: NAT WHAT TO DO