Dive into a slice of literary bliss this weekend. Connect with the ancient song spirals of the Yolngu women of north-east Arnhem Land, get a unique take on human history via the mosquito, listen to a diverse assemblage of queer Australian voices, learn about the antipodean story of Bauhaus and a be swept up by an adventurous take on Greek mythology. Here are the best books to read this weekend.
The Mosquito, Growing Up Queer in Australia, Bauhaus Diaspora and Beyond, In the Shadow of Heroes and Song Spirals are among the best new book releases this weekend.
Song Spirals by Gay’wu Group of Women
Songlines are at the heart of the oldest living culture on the planet. This book sheds light on the cultural practices of the Yolngu, from a hitherto unexplored feminine perspective. More details at Allen & Unwin.
Bauhaus Diaspora and Beyond by Philip Goad, Ann Stephen, Andrew McNamara, Harriet Edquist and Isabel Wünsche
The German art school of Bauhaus spread its wings far beyond its home borders. This collection of essays explores the Bauhaus influence on art, design and architecture in Australia and New Zealand. Via Melbourne University Press.
In the Shadow of Heroes by Nicholas Bowling
Fantasy, history and mythology are combined with adventure in this new novel for young readers. This exciting quest sends the protagonist to the edges of the known world and beyond. For more, visit Chicken House.
Growing Up Queer in Australia edited by Benjamin Law
An intergenerational and multicultural mix of prominent Australian voices share their diverse experiences of growing up queer across the breadth of our country. Details at Black Inc.
The Mosquito: A Human History of Our Deadliest Predator by Timothy C. Winegard
This is the extraordinary story of how this tiny creature has shaped civilisation. Not only is it deadly, the mosquito’s influence stretches into politics, colonisation and economics. Via Text Publishing.
