Summer in Australia is made for slowing down with a good book. Whether you’re stretched out on the sand, lazing under a shady gum, or relaxing indoors with the fan on full blast, summer books by Aussie authors are the perfect fit.
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Dive into Summer Reads by Aussie Authors
Summer is the time to explore new worlds, meet unforgettable characters and savour stories that capture the essence of the season. Whether it’s the thrill of adventure, the warmth of friendship and family or the joy of living life under the sun.
Summer at Mount Hope by Rosalie Ham
Set against the dry heat and dusty charm of rural Australia, Summer at Mount Hope follows Phoeba Crupp, a spirited young woman living on her family’s small vineyard with her quarrelsome parents and romantic younger sister, Lilith.
While Lilith is preoccupied with finding a husband, Phoeba prefers friendship and freedom, especially the company of her neighbours, Henrietta and Hadley Pearson. But when social expectations and financial pressures close in, Phoeba is drawn into a world of men, money, and the shifting tides of change. As suffragettes, squatters, and pastoralists shake up their once-quiet community, Phoeba must find the courage to forge her own path.
Read Summer at Mount Hope by Rosalie Ham.
Sunshine, Lemons and Sea Salt by Donna Hay
Now for the perfect addition to your picnic, readathon, or summer dinner party. Celebrate summer the Aussie way with Donna Hay’s Sunshine, Lemons and Sea Salt, a sun-soaked collection of modern coastal recipes. Packed with vibrant, seasonal produce and effortless flavours, this book is perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to long, lazy afternoons with friends.
Pick out some great recipes from Sunshine, Lemons and Sea Salt by Donna Hay.
Human Torpedo by Tim Winton
Kick back with the sun on your face and meet Lockie Leonard, the ultimate surf-loving Aussie teen. In Human Torpedo, Lockie is navigating the waves of adolescence, falling hard for Vicki Streeton while juggling the chaos of family life, a tricky school, and the trials of being twelve-and-three-quarters.
This is a sunny, relatable ride through first crushes, family antics, and coming-of-age misadventures. Read Human Torpedo (Lockie Leonard, 1) by Tim Winton or check out the whole Lockie Leonard series.
Annette Kellerman, Australian Mermaid by Grantlee Kieza
Dive into the extraordinary life of Annette Kellerman, Australia’s pioneering swimmer, trailblazer, and silent film star. Born in 1886 and diagnosed with rickets as a child, Annette defied expectations, breaking records, outswimming boys, and wowing crowds with her daring feats.
From challenging endurance swims in the Thames and Boston Harbour to scandalising society with her one-piece swimsuit, she redefined women’s freedom in and out of the water. Her daring extended to Hollywood, where she became a silent film superstar and fearless performer, plunging into crocodile pools and leaping from biplanes. Beyond her fame, Annette was a visionary advocate for women’s fitness, independence, and health, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.
Check out Annette Kellerman, Australian Mermaid by Grantlee Kieza.
Explore More Aussie Authors this Summer
Summer is the time to celebrate the amazing stories from Australian authors. From sun-kissed adventures and coming of age tales to real life stories and coastal cookbooks, there’s a book here for every mood and moment. Grab a spot in the shade, pour yourself a cold drink and dive into the world of Aussie storytelling.
Explore more Aussie authors this summer on our site and discover your next favourite read. If you loved this guide, check out more Reading Books guide.