Cirrus@Austlit

What happens when a quirky Australian town faces the imminent arrival of a huge fiery comet? Do the residents embrace all possibilities or run like hell?

Cactus Bob, a grizzled pensioner in a red beanie, thought surviving a death-roll by a monster saltwater crocodile was tough. But now he faces an even more devastating challenge: strange messages are arriving via his clapped-out black-and-white TV, warning of a fiery comet hurtling toward his tiny cottage on the outskirts of Wellsprings.

Café Puccini, the social hub of the colourful community, is abuzz. Is the comet real or just another zany publicity stunt dreamt up by Ah Sow, the town’s crafty trader? Will Angelo, the café owner, reunite with the wife he had somehow 'misplaced' thirteen years earlier? How did a lucky Zulu millionaire and his mysteriously 'top-secret' Norwegian wife become tied to all the comet chaos, and why is a crusty old Scottish boat-builder crafting a unique monument to the stars?

As the comet draws closer, secrets unravel, alliances form, and tensions rise. Join Wellsprings’ oddball residents as they navigate love, cosmic calamities, and outrageous adventures.' (Publication summary)

'When Cindy Gambino dropped her three boys off at their dad’s on Father’s Day 2005 she had no idea she would never see them again. By day’s end, their bodies lay at the bottom of an icy dam, a tragedy that sparked one of the most controversial and prolonged murder cases in Australian history.

'Award-winning author and journalist Megan Norris followed the case for eight years, chronicling Cindy’s heartbreaking journey through a trial, retrial, two failed appeals, and a 2013 High Court ruling that blocked Victorian father Robert Farquharson’s final bid for freedom, putting him behind bars for at least the next thirty-three years.

'Through exclusive, intimate interviews with Cindy and her family, and a meticulous examination of the overwhelming evidence before the courts, Norris details how two juries concluded Farquharson was guilty of murdering his children. This book offers valuable and first-hand insight into a crime intended to last a lifetime.

'Told through Cindy’s eyes in the aftermath, ‘On Father’s Day’ is a mother’s legacy to the family she left behind when she passed away in 2022. Updated with an epilogue, her heartbreaking story shows that this is a crime that goes way beyond the grave.' (Publication summary)

'A gripping look at teaching in the volatile world of juvenile detention.

'Inside Juvie plunges readers into the eye-opening journey of Tommy, a former state schoolteacher now navigating the tumultuous world of juvenile detention. Transitioning from teaching adults in prisons to stepping into classrooms within youth incarceration facilities is a far cry from the predictability and safety of traditional education.

'Amidst the chaos, violence, and fleeting moments of connection, Tommy rides a gritty roller-coaster, encountering unexpected breakthroughs amidst the turmoil. The stories are both heartbreaking and compelling: a 12-year-old who has never known the security of three meals a day, a young detainee who waits in vain for a mother’s visit that never comes, and the frightening escalations of violence that trigger duress alarms, security guards and devastating consequences.

'With a candid blend of darkness, hope, and humour, Inside Juvie explores the intricacies of the youth justice system. It sheds light on the harsh realities, diverse backgrounds, and daunting challenges faced by incarcerated youth, as well as the teachers who strive to reach them. This book promises readers a compelling journey through the often overlooked and misunderstood realm of juvenile detention.

'Inside Juvie is a rare, first-hand perspective on the contentious world of youth detention.' (Publication summary)

'Trigger Warning is a story of success, triumph, trauma and overcoming. This is the story of a former Special Operations Engineer as he worked relentlessly to rekindle his life after the war. Having worked alongside Australia’s Special Forces, he discusses in great detail, the exploits that he was tasked to perform as an engineer during his multiple tours to Afghanistan, during some of the roughest years of the war. However, this tale is something more, as it is also a human story, of a son chasing his father’s approval, the challenges of growing up in a shadow, and one man’s unrelenting drive to make peace with the demons that followed him home.

'Nathan became a Special Operations Engineer and chose to perform one of the most revered job roles during the conflict in Afghanistan, search and clearance of Improvised Explosive Devices. Nathan found himself involved in countless traumatic situations throughout his tours, from when his vehicle struck an IED and exploded, to the fear that he felt having laid on top of a pressure plate with the main explosive charge being underneath 5 of his mates behind him. These hidden bombs were littered all over the battlespace and became so feared, that soldiers were known to refuse to get out of their vehicle until an engineer had checked the ground first. These tours would inevitably take a toll on Nathan, both physically and psychologically, but due to his inability to look inwards, and his negative association towards vulnerability, he was unable to see or accept its impact until it was too late.

Post-war, Nathan hit rock bottom, and believed that to leave this world was the only way out. Nathan’s climb out of the darkness was supported by a rather bizarre contraption, where he managed to find purpose through an old, beaten and battered off-road racing sidecar that his dad used to race back in the 80’s. Nathan ultimately made a profound recovery, and although forever scarred by his active service, no longer do his demons define him. Nathan now embraces vulnerability to its utmost and uses his experiences to help inspire others. Vulnerability was never a sign of weakness as Nathan had once believed, but is now the truest test of bravery imaginable, for it took more courage for Nathan to face himself and his demons than it ever did to stand firm on the battlefield.'  (Publication summary) 

'In the darkest shadows, the pursuit of truth is the only light.

'‘Brilliant … a captivating new voice in Australian crime fiction’

'In the scorching summer of 2004, a working-class Sydney suburb erupts in turmoil when Percy Fullwood, a respected local, is accused of a heinous crime by his own family. As the media frenzy ignites, Detective Bruce Spencer leads a high-profile raid, branding Percy guilty before trial.

'Enter Diane Spencer, Bruce's wealthy and determined sister, who refuses to accept the verdict. Teaming up with enigmatic lawyer Otto, Diane launches a daring quest for justice.

'While Percy languishes in prison, Diane and Otto risk everything to uncover the truth, delving deep into the labyrinth of corrupt officials and Sydney's dark underbelly.

'Against a backdrop of political intrigue and personal vendettas, the investigators navigate treacherous waters to unravel the conspiracy. As they dig deeper, Diane and Otto realise that the powerful forces at play will stop at nothing to protect their web of secrets.

'Will truth triumph against the odds, or will the Spencer team be consumed by the darkness they seek to defeat?'  (Publication summary)

'This fiercely funny memoir is set in Melbourne during the 1940s. The entrenched Protestant–Catholic divide of those times informs the narrative. Juxtaposed is the gulf between Melburnians and the thousands of Yanks stationed in their city following Pearl Harbor; the dizzying effect on the women had far-reaching consequences. Growing resentment and the increasing fear of a Japanese invasion add to the tension.

'Born in 1938, Peter relates that he was conceived twice. The conception resulting in his parents’ marriage occurs in the back of a ’36 Chevy. Five months after the wedding, his mother (who wasn’t above telling a little fib) experiences the first signs of pregnancy: it is then she knows that she doesn’t want to be a mother.

'As the war escalates Peter’s father joins the RAAF, leaving Peter with a mother who resents having a small child to care for. Neglected, cold and hungry, shame engulfs him when his mother entertains a stream of GIs.

'Blending the matter-of-fact voice of a child with the accomplished voice of a journalist, Peter’s Wars captures the precise detail of the period: a kitchen without heating or running water, black market grog, rationing … the combination of satire and realism highlighting human truths with stark acuity.

' When Peter turns ten, his rich Catholic grandmother decides his religious education should not be neglected any longer and enrols him at Xavier College. There, Peter learns about eternal damnation and hellfire. Terrified, he responds by trying to make up for ten years of religious ignorance by attending daily mass and amassing enough ‘good’ points to save his soul.

'Peter’s Wars is a memoir that begins and ends with the defining factors of every human life: time and place.' (Publication summary) 

'Get ready for chaos as Romeo Fortez, the cutest sloth EVER and the world's most fearless superhero, takes on another Weird-Warp mutant army!

'The city that never sleeps faces a monstrous threat from the twisted genius of Professor Ian Weird-Warp. From the depths of New York's sewers emerges a terrifying army of mutant hog-ators: half-razorback hog, half-alligator, wreaking havoc in the famed Museum of National History!

'Romeo and his team of crime-fighting friends must defend the innocent citizens of New York and safeguard the museum’s priceless treasures. As they battle the mutant menace, they need to unravel the sinister plans of Weird-Warp.

'Will Romeo harness his extraordinary superpowers to thwart the dastardly professor and save the day? Or will Weird-Warp march ever closer to his dream of world domination?

'Join Romeo Fortez on another adventure filled with action and excitement as he faces his greatest challenge yet.' (Publication summary)

Suicides, hangings, shootings, car accidents, drownings, cliff falls, electrocutions …
Detective Peter Seymour has seen every type of death imaginable in his time in the NSW Coroner’s Court and, after many years in law enforcement, the tragedies are beginning to take their toll.

Dealing with death day in day out becomes too much for Seymour and this seasoned veteran starts to grapple with overwhelming feelings of fear and doubt. He decides to return to the police force hoping the operational work might offer some reprieve. Fate would have it otherwise as he is thrust straight back into an intense murder investigation.

'One Friday night in the year 2000, Nick Hanes is heading home after a night out with his mates. Barely two-hundred and fifty metres from his home, he is set upon by two men. Bashed, beaten then murdered, Hanes dies after a senseless and random attack.

'Seymour is called to the St Mary’s crime scene. He examines the body and discovers that there are very few clues, no leads and no witnesses. As the case unravels it takes every bit of his experience, tenacity and determination to not only discover the identity of the perpetrators but to also deal with his own demons that are beginning to spiral out of control.

'Shattered Lives tells the true story of two men embarking on dangerous paths. One man finds himself the victim of a violent crime, the other searching for justice for the dead man’s family as he struggles with his own battle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, the result of a life spent giving his all for others. Both paths are intertwined, and there is no turning back.' (Publication summary)

'This book focuses on the last three months of Robert O’Hara Burke, William John Wills, and John King on Cooper’s Creek. The original expedition which set out in August 1860 was to explore the centre and northern reaches of the Australian continent. The expedition essentially concluded with the death of Burke and Wills on Coopers Creek from starvation and illness in late June and early July 1861.

'The tragedy was a sliding doors moment in history. Burke, Wills, and King arrived back at the famous ‘Dig Tree’ camp site, the same day that this manned outpost decided to pack up and return south towards Menindie. They missed each other by a matter of hours.

'Over the last few decades revisionist history has attempted to place Burke, Wills, and the sole survivor King, within the paradigm of ‘stupid, arrogant white fellas’ who ignored the wisdom and help of the Yandruwandha people who had successfully carved out a niche along and around Cooper’s Creek. The story as told by the participants through their diaries, letters, journals, and oral history from members of the Yandruwandha clan tells a completely different story. The three men appreciated that their very survival was dependent on the Yandruwandha and much time was spent trying to keep good relations with the local indigenous clan, with a few odd exceptions.

'Overall, relations between the two groups were good, and it was for this reason that King survived with the help of the Yandruwandha people – without them he too would have died. This book places the death of Burke and Wills, and the generosity and good will of the Yandruwandha clan in its proper historical context.' (Publication summary)

'One of the finest soldiers and most courageous leaders I have ever known. – Lt Doug McClean, D Coy, 39th Battalion

'If you have trekked Kokoda, then the campsite of Templeton's Crossing will be familiar. Discover the story of the man behind the name.

'Captain Sam Templeton was the first Australian officer to be captured by the Japanese in the Kokoda Campaign. After being interrogated by his captors he was executed on the battlefield.

'Prior to facing his enemy, Templeton had predicted his fate, telling one of his platoon commanders, that if 'he went into action, he wouldn’t come back'. Having resigned himself to his destiny, Templeton misled his captors on the numerical strength of the Australian forces waiting in Kokoda and Port Moresby.

Did the misinformation given by a militia officer slow the initial push by the Yokoyama Advance Force into the Owen Stanley Range, allowing the Australian Imperial Force to join the fight earlier? Did Templeton create doubt in the mind of the commander of the South Seas Force, influencing an operational change for the attack on Port Moresby?

'A quiet and often aloof character originally from Belfast, Captain Sam Templeton is mentioned in just about every book written about Kokoda. Prior to fighting in New Guinea, Templeton is reputed to have helped quash the Irish rebellion, served in submarines with the Royal Navy during the First World War and to have fought with the International Brigade during the Spanish Civil War.

'Kokoda Legend goes beyond the myth to discover the real contribution Captain Sam Templeton made to stopping the Japanese advance over the Owen Stanley Range in 1942.' (Publication summary)

'Embark on a gripping adventure with Mark 'Trigger' Tregellas in Backup is Three Hours Away, a true crime memoir chronicling nearly three decades of policing Victoria's remote coastal region. Trigger never knew what each shift would bring – tragedy, laughter, adventure, danger – sometimes all on the same day.

'Trigger's personal journey, fuelled by a thirst for adventure and special forces training, led him to the frontline of policing. He faced life-threatening situations and earned commendation for his exceptional and courageous service, recognition that came at a personal cost. Through Trigger’s career he sustained severe injuries, including a broken spine, a gunshot wound to the face and PTSD.

'Trigger delves into encounters with peril, unexpected twists, and heartbreaking moments, shedding light on the motivations that drive officers to willingly confront the unknown. Despite the physical and mental toll, his story is one of triumph, showcasing a resilient mindset honed through exhaustive training and the overcoming of life's challenges, including a brush with cancer.

'Backup is Three Hours Away is a genuine portrayal of policing, from the unpredictable and humorous moments, to heart-wrenching tragedy. Trigger's narrative transcends the typical law enforcement tale, revealing indomitable human spirit and resilience – a powerful and inspirational testament to the highs and lows of a career dedicated to service.' (Publication summary)

'Can you really change how you feel with only a thought? You sure can!
Learn how to turn a grey day into a Yay day.
Turn a frown into a smile.
And discover the power of a simple thank you.

'Exploding with joy and hope, Thank You will support children (and parents) through tough days and anxious times.

'‘Thank You’ is the perfect antidote for growing anxiety in young minds. Packed with practical "Thank You" empowers kids to discover their own superpower and find strength in their words and actions.' (Publication summary)

'She eyed him nervously, this man who could end her life without a second thought. She had been complacent, lulled into forgetting the immense power he wielded over her ...

'London, 1941, and in the battered capital of occupied Britain, Emilia Shaw works as a translator for ruthless SS General Oskar Voigt. But Emilia is also a resistance spy, desperate to avoid the scrutiny of Voigt’s security chief, Irish policeman Brendan O’Connor, and his brutal offsider, SS Colonel Hans Morser.

'Promised the crown, the Duke of Windsor returns to London, unleashing a wave of violence from the resistance. The Duke pressures the puppet government for his coronation, but finds himself at the mercy of Hitler, the supreme kingmaker.

'As the violence escalates, Emilia is hunted by both the SS and the resistance, caught in the crossfire as the country threatens to implode. Ultimately, its fate lies in the hands of one man — the most unlikely of them all.

'Power and Obsession is the vividly imagined tale of an occupied London, a dark labyrinth peopled by the sinister, the smug and the sadistic. Yet it is also a gripping tale of reckless audacity and the obsessive search for justice.' (Publication summary) 

'‘I was an easy target. You didn’t have to be a trained sniper to take the shot.’

'Easy Target is the inspirational story of a young man’s journey from being an easy target and victim of bullying to forging fortitude and resilience in order to battle the bullies and the black dog of depression.

'Adam tells his story with raw honesty which at times is heartbreaking and at other times, hilarious. Easy Target outlines the real-life steps Adam has taken in order to overcome his darkest days, change his mindset and transform his life.

'With contributing chapters by best-selling authors, this book is about change, hope, and belief for a brighter future. “' (Publication summary)

'Get ready for a feathered adventure with Romeo Fortez … the cutest sloth EVER … and the world’s most daring superhero!

'Romeo’s nemesis, the unhinged Professor Ian Weird-Warp, is at it again. Bent on revenge, he concocts a quirky catastrophe. Mixing chicken and goat genes, he spawns a gang of eccentric chick-oats and they’re on the loose in the Big Apple, destroying everything in their path all the while chanting, ‘Berk-berk-baa!’

'As the team faces off against Professor Weird-Warp’s sinister demands for Romeo’s surrender, they must hatch a brilliant plan to thwart the mad professor’s wicked schemes once and for all.

'Can this unlikely crew save the city from the clutches of the chick-oats?'(Publication summary)

'In the heart of Vanuatu's Tanna island, Hu Lee, the leader of an aid agency, meets a tragic end, fatally stabbed amidst a tsunami evacuation drill. With no witnesses, Sergeant George Long, visiting for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli, is thrust into the role of lead investigator. Ordered by his superiors in Vila, he delves into a perplexing case that draws the attention of the Vanuatu Government, police force, and Chinese Embassy.

As George and partner Jayline Oli dig deeper, a web of debts owed to Lee surfaces, revealing a growing list of potential motives and suspects. Their path to the truth is fraught with obstacles. Hindered by uncooperative local law enforcement, an unexpected visit from a Chinese Embassy official, and the unsettling possibility of family involvement, George and Jayline must traverse Vanuatu's rugged terrain – from the historic town of Lenakel to the summit of Mt Yasur, an active volcano.

'As the investigation unfolds, George's mixed heritage adds another layer of complexity, further entangling him in a case that becomes increasingly personal. While George's own life unravels and with stunning landscapes as a backdrop, the duo races against time to untangle a web of secrets and deception …'(Publication summary)

'A true and moving story of love, war, courage and indomitable spirit…

'One day the tall, gaunt father came to the house with the new wife and called the puzzled seven-year-old to him. She had never seen him before… ‘I am your father and you will call me Father, and this is your new mother and you will call her Mother,’ he said. Then he went away again, leaving little Bell with confusion in her mind and emptiness in her heart.

'In Mackie and Jack, the author travels with Mary ‘Bell’ Todd on a journey to remember a lonely childhood, a wartime marriage and what it took for her to succeed as a woman alone in a man’s world of livestock breeding in Australia. Empowered by inner strength and resilience, she confronted her challenges and overcame them.

'In 1942-1944, Mary’s husband, Squadron Leader Jack Todd faced challenges of another kind. Armed with bombs, depth charges and mines, the Catalinas of 11 and 20 Squadrons, Royal Australian Air Force, took the war directly to the Japanese by reaching out from Cairns in flights across the Pacific. From these squadrons alone, 187 men did not return.

'Jack Todd piloted the ill-fated mission of Catalina A24.34. Jack’s story is one of courage, leadership and valour in a war against an enemy that showed no mercy.

'An outstanding account of Australian war history and that of a woman who brushed aside those who stood in her way.'   (Publication summary)