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Stories Behind the Story with Better Reading
Cheryl Akle discusses the world with her favourite authors.
Latest episode
Stories Behind The Story: Ann Mossop on the 2026 Sydney Writers’ Festival
34:53|Cheryl talks to Ann Mossop, Artistic Director of the 2026 Sydney Writers’ Festival, for a special episode of Stories Behind the Story. Together, they explore this year’s festival theme, highlight standout events, and discuss the exciting lineup of attending authors. The 2026 Sydney Writers’ Festival runs from 17–24 May, with tickets now available via the official festival website.
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Stories Behind The Story: Mali Cornish on Life, Law & Her New Novel
25:49|Cheryl talks to Mali Cornish about her relationship with her own mother, her career in law, and how becoming a parent reshaped her perspective on life. They also explore the inspiration behind her new book, The Missing Mother, which is out now.
Stories Behind The Story: Kate Mildenhall & Kate Forsyth on the Complexities of Writing
23:30|Kate Mildenhall (The Hummingbird Effect, The Mother Fault) and Kate Forsyth (Psykhe, Dragonclaw) have a laugh and talk about the complexities of writing. Learn more about the two authors, Forsyth's impressive and long writing career, Mildenhall's new kids book, and as always, the publishing industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors.
Stories Behind The Story: Rosalie Ham on Ageing, Connection and Look After Your Feet
37:11|Rosalie Ham talks to Cheryl about the beauty of ageing, the impact of her novel The Dressmaker, and her earlier career in aged care. She also reflects on the importance of staying mobile and how social connection supports overall wellbeing. Her new book, Look After Your Feet, is out now.
Stories Behind The Story: Mohammed Massoud Morsi on Journalism and Belonging
34:31|Mohammed Massoud Morsi talks to Cheryl about belonging, his career in journalism and the ways propaganda can shape worldviews. He reflects on the power of tradition and culture, as well as the personal losses that have influenced his life and writing. His book, The Hair of the Pigeon, is out now.
Stories Behind The Story: Linda Martin on Her Journey from Editor to Author
30:07|Linda Martin talks to Cheryl about her career in publishing, editing techniques she's uncovered over the years, and her transition from editor to author. She also highlights the value of writing competitions and celebrates the richness of the Australian writing and reading community. Her book, A Tale of Two Publishing Houses, is out now.
Stories Behind The Story: Durkhanai Ayubi on Displacement, Food and Hope
33:24|Durkhanai Ayubi talks to Cheryl about displacement, the beauty of food and its power to bring communities together. She also reflects on hope, resilience, and her family’s restaurant, sharing how these experiences have shaped her writing. Her book, She Who Tastes, Knows, is out now.