One of Australia’s favourite writers, Judy Nunn, tells us about her exciting new book Tiger Men and why she she crafts Australian stories for Australian readers:
‘My latest novel ‘Tiger Men’ is the story of a golden era in Tasmania’s history from the late 1800’s to the end of the First World War when ‘the Apple Isle’ became known as ‘the fruit bowl of Europe’. Tasmanian timber and ships and merino wool, too, were sought after commodities across the world. The title of the book refers to the men and women of industry who made and lost great fortunes during this time. It focuses on two generations of three particular families who live through the turbulence of Federation and World War 1.
A reviewer once wrote that my novels are ‘works of fiction cleverly woven into the tapestry of Australian history.’ My writer’s ego was so ‘pumped’ by the remark that I now bandy it all over the place, but upon analysis it’s true. I love my country and its short but colourful history and I enjoy placing my fictional characters in the midst of outrageous or momentous times. In doing so, I am continually confounded by the truth in the adage, ‘fact is stranger than fiction’. I consider myself a very lucky person. I love writing, I love the personal discovery in research and I love sharing my discoveries with readers through the trials and tribulations of the characters in my books.’
Judy Nunn’s career has been long, illustrious and multifaceted. After combining her internationally successful acting career with scriptwriting for television and radio, Judy decided in the 80s to turn her hand to prose. The result was two adventure novels for children, which remain extremely popular, not only in Australia but in Europe. Embarking on adult fiction in the early 90s, Judy’s three novels, The Glitter Game, Centre Stage and Araluen, set respectively in the worlds of television, theatre and film, became instant bestsellers. Her subsequent bestsellers, Kal, Beneath the Southern Cross, Territory, Pacific, Heritage, Floodtide and Maralinga confirm her position as one of Australia’s leading popular novelists. For more information about Judy visit: www.judynunn.com.au
Have just finished reading Tiger Men, what a great and thoroughly interesting book. Thank you for giving me 3 delightful days of reading during my holidays. I will be buying more of your books as Australian history is my passion and to read the way you write is wonderful, thank you, thank you…..
Thoroughly enjoyed ‘Tiger Men’, first fiction I’ve read in years and couldn’t put it down. I grew up in Hobart in the 40′s and 50′s and it brought a lot of the place back to me – great memories. I’d like to communicate privately with Judy on a couple of things in the book – can this be done? I’ll certainly be reading more of her books – the combination of real Australian history and fiction is excellent and so well written.