Earlier tonight the longlist for the 2016 Stella Prize was announced. It’s a brilliant list that leans heavily towards fiction, with 11 of the 12 longlisted titles fiction of some format (including novel, novella, and short story collection).
I’m somewhat embarrassed to say that prior to the announcement of the list I was only familiar with six of these titles, and had actually only read one. That will change, but before I get stuck into my new reading pile, I want to take a moment to appreciate the stunning cover designs gracing all 12 longlisted books. I know the award is for what comes after the cover, but the judges have done a wonderful job of also showcasing some of the best cover design for Australian books over the past 12 months.
Debra Adelaide’s The Women’s Pages is the only book on the longlist that I’ve read, and I’ve been in awe of the cover since I first saw it. The Other Side of the World by Stephanie Bishop has been burning a hole in my bookshelf for months waiting to be read, so I must make time to get to that soon.
I’m genuinely in love with all four of these covers. I’ll be making my way to A Guide to Berlin as soon as possible, and I’ll be tracking down a copy of Hope Farm if only to admire the exquisite cover. Okay, okay, I’ll read it as well.
When your best friend’s production company acquires the rights to one of the most talked about Australian fiction books of 2015, it’s definitely time to read the book, right? Damn right! I’m coming for you, The Natural Way of Things. I’ll also be getting a copy of Small Acts of Disappearance, which is the only non-fiction book on the list.
Have you read any books on the longlist? Are there any you think I absolutely need to read? I’d love to know!
