Cirrus@Austlit

'Australian publishers are reluctant to publish collections of short stories, but there appears to be a continuing demand for anthologies. Despite the presence of work by canonical authors such as Helen Garner, Peter Carey, David Malouf and Tim Winton, Secret Lives is not typical of the “best Australian stories” anthology. A few of those included have not yet published a book, though they have been successful in some of the many short-story competitions held in Australia every year. Others, such as Peter Corris and Terry Dowling, are leading writers of crime and science fiction. Barry Oakley seems to have aimed his book at those who don’t usually read much fiction, with each story prefaced by a short introduction. Further editorial guidance is provided by grouping…'  (Introduction)