Stories Behind the Story with Better Reading

Dr. Emma Beckett talks to Cheryl about her passion for food-themed fashion, and the challenges of breaking away from the restrictive narratives that diet culture often imposes, particularly on women. Her latest book, You are More Than What You Eat, is out now.

Tim Winton talks to Cheryl about his evolving worldview and the importance of community, highlighting how his work speaks to the complexities of life and the enduring hope for a better future. Tim Winton discusses the themes of survival, moral courage, and humanity in his latest novel, set in a dystopian future impacted by climate change. His latest novel, Juice, is out now. 

Michael Connelly talks to Cheryl Akle about his writing journey, from witnessing a crime to becoming a crime novelist, mentors, and the importance of place in novels. His latest novel, The Waiting, will be out in October 2024.  

Hasib Hourani talks to Cheryl about the displacement and dispossession of the Palestinian people, as well as the broader context of global politics, media, and the ongoing conflict in Palestine. His latest work, rock flight, is out now.

Caroline Overington sits down with Cheryl Akle, the founder of Better Reading, to celebrate its 10th birthday! They reflect on the journey of building a vibrant community of readers and writers, the challenges faced along the way, and the innovative ways Better Reading has fostered a love for books in Australia. Cheryl shares her insights into the evolution of the publishing landscape, the impact of technology on reading habits, and her passion for connecting authors with their audiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Better Reading, this episode offers a heartfelt look at a decade of literary celebration and what the future holds.

Josh Bornstein talks to Cheryl about corporate power, free speech, and the urgent need for a unified progressive agenda to tackle the various social and political crises confronting society today. His latest work, Working For The Brand, is out now.

Genevieve Gannon talks to Cheryl about the evolving landscape of journalism and literature, the influence of the pandemic on her writing, and the importance of community-based journalism. Her latest novel, Inheritance, is out now. 

Harriet Constable talks to Cheryl about her unconventional path to writing, her immersive research process in Venice, and the significant historical themes she explores in her work. Her latest novel,The Instrumentalist, is out now.