We’re eager to explore more

TIME and again, we encounter individuals or topics that spark our interest, prompting us to think, “I must delve into this when I find the opportunity.”

Recently, a number of new publications have emerged to support this quest for knowledge. From our school days, where learning to read was a cornerstone of education – assuming it hadn’t been addressed at home – the expectation to engage with the works of Dickens, Shakespeare and other literary figures was crucial for our cognitive development.

For some, this requirement was tedious, while for others, it was a catalyst for a lifelong passion for reading.

This varied attitude towards reading persists, with many of us eager to explore more.

This article considers several books that fuel this motivation.

For those with experience in rural or farming environments, the role of dogs is indispensable. They not only alert us to the arrival of unfamiliar vehicles but also play a significant part in our daily operations. Lisa Millar’s recent release “Muster Dogs”, based on an ABC TV series, explores the transition of dogs from ‘pups to pros’, detailing the stories of ten dogs that have made a significant impact. The book highlights the collaboration between expert breeders, trainers, and their canine pupils to demonstrate the remarkable abilities of these animals in improving livestock health, farm management, and environmental sustainability. Offering insights and tips from professionals, the book promises to immerse readers in the themes of loyalty, resilience, and the close bonds formed between humans and dogs.

Heather Cameron’s autobiography “Never Underestimate a Woman” narrates her life in outback NSW. As one of seven children in a family grappling with domestic violence, drought, and financial hardship, her story is one of resilience and determination. Leaving school at 16 to work in shearing sheds, and later contributing to the establishment of an earth-moving business, her journey encompasses the breadth of rural enterprise and the overcoming of significant challenges.

“Sunshine” by Kim Kelly is a heartfelt narrative set in 1921, in the aftermath of the Great War. It tells the story of hope and recovery through the lives of three ex-servicemen – an Aboriginal horseman, a farmer, and an engineer – who come together on a plot of farmland along the Darling River. The arrival of the engineer’s wife, a seasoned nurse, introduces a dynamic of healing and wisdom, offering a poignant exploration of friendship, healing, and the rediscovery of life’s purpose.

Geoff Smith’s “Australian Bush Poetry” is a celebration of rural life and storytelling, encapsulated in 227 pages. Raised in Dubbo until the age of 21, Smith’s poem “Dubbo” offers a detailed and affectionate portrayal of the city. His collection continues to explore the essence of country living, affirming poetry as a means of storytelling, entertainment, and the exchange of ideas.

Betty Stroud’s “Puffin’ Along With Betty” recounts her solo travels from Afghanistan to Venice and beyond, capturing a diverse range of experiences from Edinburgh to Moscow. Known to me for 60 years, Betty’s family had a business on Brisbane Street in Dubbo, adding a personal connection to her tales of adventure.

These books, each in their own way, contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the importance of reading, offering insights into diverse lives and experiences that enrich our understanding and appreciation of the world around us.

One of the most captivating accounts of Australian travel I’ve encountered is “Skirmish Hill” by Bill Stanford. Drawing from his experiences working on cattle stations across South Australia, Queensland, and north-western NSW, Stanford takes readers on a journey to the secluded Skirmish Hill, situated near the SA border in WA. This sacred Aboriginal site, which requires registered access, serves as the focal point of a broader narrative spanning 505 pages. The book extends well beyond this single expedition, weaving together family history, rural adventures, and interactions with Indigenous Peoples. Interestingly, the author lives in Dubbo, and this updated edition is enhanced with colour photographs.

“The Habit

Revolution” by

Dr Gin Cleo is a thought-provoking exploration into the psychology of habits. Dr Cleo, a prominent brain habit researcher, delves into why we often find ourselves trapped in cycles of unwanted behaviour and how exhaustion and diminished willpower exacerbate these patterns. Through insights from behavioural science, she illustrates how our brains operate and provides strategies for rewiring them to foster immediate and enduring life changes. The book highlights the numerous benefits of reading, from providing encouragement and knowledge to offering solace, comfort and inspiration.

In “The Orwell Tour”, Oliver Lewis guides readers through the life and legacy of George Orwell. Born in northern India in 1903, Orwell’s journey took him from Catalonia to Motihari, Marrakech, Paris, and finally to England, where he passed away in Oxfordshire in 1950. Notably, part of his career involved selling books in a Parisian bookstore. Orwell is celebrated for his influential works, such as “1984” and “Animal Farm”, which prompt profound reflections on the human condition.

Andrew Pettegree’s “The Book at War” examines the powerful role of literature in shaping history. Spanning from the American Civil War to the recent invasion of Ukraine, Pettegree demonstrates how books, writers and readers have been entwined with conflict, serving as both weapons of war and advocates for peace.

Highlighting the literary interests of figures such as Chairman Mao, a librarian, and Stalin, a published poet, the book underscores the transformative power of literature. It also recalls the dark chapters of book burnings in the 1900s and the establishment of libraries in the London Underground during the Blitz, emphasising books’ enduring impact.

“Confessions of a Bookseller” by Shaun Bythell offers a unique glimpse into the life of a Wigtown bookseller. Presented as a diary, it details the diverse interests of his customers and the personal touch he brings to helping them find their next read. Bythell’s narrative captures the charm and challenges of running a bookstore, from making reading recommendations to fulfilling unusual requests.

Richard Flanagan’s “Question 7” is a compelling narrative about the complexities of love and its consequences. Integrating elements of dream, history, place, and memory, Flanagan discusses how our identities are shaped by the stories of others. A Booker Prize winner for “The Narrow Road to the Deep North”, Flanagan continues to enchant readers with his storytelling prowess.

With nearly 45,000 titles available, our shelves offer a treasure trove for book lovers, each at a discount off the recommended retail price. We invite you to explore our collection and discover books that resonate with your interests - and...