SPEED READS

Pack these short and compelling books for a quick weekend away.

HEAT AND LIGHT BY ELLEN VAN NEERVEN This award-winner from Indigenous writer van Neerven explores familial bonds and an uncertain future in three parts. YOUR DUCK IS MY DUCK BY DEBORAH EISENBERG In six stories Eisenberg creates characters worthy of a novel each, as they deal with love, grief and tragedy.

KISS KISS BY ROALD DAHL The 11 stories contained here deal with devious dealings and the sinister side of human nature in typical Dahl style. THE OFFICE OF HISTORICAL CORRECTIONS BY DANIELLE EVANS

Through the moments and relationships in her characters’ lives, Evans explores the issues of race, culture and history in modern America.

GRAND UNION BY ZADIE SMITH The legacy of the past and the uncertainty of the future fill the stories of award-winning author Smith’s first short story collection. VAMPIRES IN THE LEMON GROVE BY

KAREN RUSSELL Dystopian tales of an awkward teen, US president reincarnated as a horse, and vampires trading blood for lemons are served up by this Pulitzer-shortlisted author.

FLORIDA BY LAUREN GROFF The landscape, climate and identity of the state of Florida star alongside the characters in this collection.

ARMS RACE BY NIC LOW New Zealander Low drills into the dark heart of our modern obsession with technology, power and image. THE SECRET LIVES OF COLOUR BY KASSIA ST CLAIR The compelling histories and fascinating back stories of colours. TO BE A MAN BY NICOLE KRAUSS An exploration of men and women and the tensions between them from the beginning.