More than 280,000 individuals participated in the ABC’s Radio National poll to determine the Top 100 Books of the 21st Century, with Trent Dalton‘s Boy Swallows Universe claiming the top position. While the list features works from both Australian and international authors, it has drawn criticism for its lack of diversity, particularly regarding the representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers.
The poll revealed that four of the top ten titles and 26 from the top 100 were authored by Australians. According to the ABC, this reflects a strong preference among Australian readers for local authors. Yet, the narrow selection raises concerns about the broader literary landscape, especially given the growing body of First Nations literature that deserves recognition.
Notably, Bruce Pascoe‘s Dark Emu was the only Indigenous title to secure a spot in the top 50, ranking at 18. Other notable Indigenous authors, such as Alexis Wright and Melissa Lucashenko, had their works Carpentaria and Too Much Lip placed at numbers 82 and 81, respectively. The success of these authors signals a significant, yet underappreciated, contribution to Australian literature.
As the literary scene evolves, the recognition of First Nations writers becomes increasingly vital. Here are ten books from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors published within the last 25 years that merit inclusion in any discussion of important literature from this century.
Ten Essential First Nations Books
1. **Terra Nullius** by Claire G. Coleman (Hachette, 2017)
This thought-provoking novel often serves as a primary recommendation for readers seeking Indigenous literature. Its impactful twist reshapes the narrative, prompting readers to reconsider their perspectives.
2. **Heat and Light** by Ellen Van Neerven (UQP, 2014)
As a debut work, this collection elegantly intertwines realism with spirituality, exploring themes of connection to Country and futurism. Its re-release as a First Nations Classic in 2024 further underscores its significance.
3. **The Yield** by Tara June Winch (HarperCollins, 2019)
Awarded the 2020 Miles Franklin Award, this novel invites readers to engage with the Wiradjuri language. It masterfully connects language to culture and family, enriching the reader’s understanding of identity.
4. **Ghost Bird** by Lisa Fuller (UQP, 2019)
This young adult novel defies conventional genre categorization, weaving elements of myth and legend into a gripping narrative about a sister’s search for her missing twin. It resonates deeply with Aboriginal cultural narratives.
5. **That Deadman Dance** by Kim Scott (Picador, 2010)
This historical fiction won the Miles Franklin literary award, marking Scott as the first Aboriginal author to achieve this honor twice. The book reflects on the complexities of colonization through a nuanced lens of hope.
6. **The Cherry Picker’s Daughter: A Childhood Memoir** by Aunty Kerry Reed-Gilbert (Wild Dingo Press, 2019)
Released posthumously, this memoir offers a poignant glimpse into Reed-Gilbert’s life, illustrating resilience amidst tragedy. Her contributions to Indigenous writing continue to inspire future generations.
7. **Harvest Lingo** by Lionel Fogarty (Giramondo, 2022)
In this collection of poetry, Fogarty addresses themes of politics, history, and culture, challenging readers with his unique style that resonates more profoundly with Aboriginal audiences.
8. **Inside My Mother** by Ali Cobby Eckermann (Giramondo, 2015)
This autobiographical collection explores themes of grief and connection, showcasing Eckermann’s powerful voice. Her work invites readers into her most intimate experiences, blending raw emotion with beauty.
9. **Took the Children Away** by Archie Roach (Simon & Schuster, 2010)
This picture book, adapted from Roach’s song about his personal experiences as part of the Stolen Generations, serves as an educational tool for younger audiences, highlighting the impact of colonization.
10. **Ghost River** by Tony Birch (UQP, 2015)
This novel captures the struggles of youth against a backdrop of secrets and history. Birch’s storytelling reveals how difficult childhood experiences shape adult lives.
The landscape of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander literature is rich and varied. For those interested in exploring this important body of work, resources like AustLit’s BlackWords database are invaluable. Melanie Saward, an Aboriginal writer affiliated with the University of Queensland, emphasizes the significance of these voices in shaping a more inclusive literary narrative.
The ABC’s poll serves as a reminder that while Australian literature is vibrant, it must also embrace the diversity that reflects the cultural richness of the nation. The continued success and recognition of First Nations authors are crucial steps toward achieving this goal.
