Author Description

Prize-winning and highly commended stories from the Brotherhood of St Laurence Hope Prize, judged by the Honourable Quentin Bryce AD CVO, Cate Blanchett and Kate Grenville. Foreword by the Honourable Quentin Bryce AD CVO. 'Filled with determination and human spirit about people who overcome the odds with courage and strength.' - the Honourable Quentin Bryce AD CVO 'Powerful perspectives on the world at large from unique and authentic voices.' - Cate Blanchett 'Stories enrich both the storyteller and the story-reader, bringing new understanding and new perspectives to both.' - Kate Grenville An elegant fable about Nella Sands, a woman who builds a bridge over life's hardships with her wit and intuition, to bring healing to a broken town, a lonesome drifter and her own waylaid hopes. Biddy, an Aboriginal girl, paints the indignities of growing up poor and marginalised, but also the richness of heritage, home and hope. A woman suffers her husband's insults and paranoia, until she makes the brave decision to rescue herself and her sons, and break the cycle of violence. These are a few of the powerful storylines that, woven together, showcase a vision of resilience, strength and grace in the face of the seemingly impossible. The Hope Prize encourages writing that transcends stereotypes of our 'poor', our invisible citizens, and these ten short stories continue in its effort to reflect bravery and dignity under duress. They are a celebration of hope and the enduring power of community. Royalties from the sale of this book will be donated to the Brotherhood of St Laurence.