When Mulanyin meets the beautiful Nita in Edenglassie, their saltwater people still outnumber the British. As colonial unrest peaks, Mulanyin dreams of taking his bride home to Yugambeh Country, but his plans for independence collide with white justice.
Two centuries later, fiery activist Winona meets Dr Johnny. Together they care for obstinate centenarian Grannie Eddie, and sparks fly, but not always in the right direction. What nobody knows is how far the legacies of the past will reach into their modern lives.
In this brilliant epic, Melissa Lucashenko torches Queensland’s colonial myths, while reimagining an Australian future.
Buy a copy of Edenglassie here.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
From the first chapter, I was gripped and delighted and dismayed. Melissa Lucashenko’s intelligence, keen sense of observation and love of language shine through this intensely timely and important narrative, as they did through her Miles Franklin-winning Too Much Lip. Her way of combining love for Country and people, rage at injustices past and present, with hope and compassion for the future make the telling of hard stories engaging and uplifting as well as challenging. I laughed out loud at sentences like “‘I don’t remember saying you can call me Aunty’, Eddie snapped. Somebody ran a cultural awareness seminar somewhere and she magically acquired a million white nephews.” Jen, TAS, 5 Stars
Confronting, eye-opening, but also a beautifully written story providing an insight into a history that is mostly hidden from us today. Profoundly moving, but also vibrant and compelling, this is a unique story about history and how the past directly affects the future. Alanna, QLD, 5 Stars
Edenglassie is an important new work of fiction by Melissa Lucashenko. In two parallel stories, one set in 1855 and the other in 2024, we follow the journey of an Aboriginal family. Through their stories we learn the power of culture, history and forgiveness through reconciliation. Not to be missed. Shannan, NSW, 5 Stars
Told through the story of Mulanyin and Nita, this book addresses the issues of culture clashes of the Indigenous population in the 1800s. The author links their struggles with their relatives in 2024 and the reader feels drawn into the issues that make for a great book that I am sure will be one of the best reads for 2023. Cheryl, VIC, 5 Stars
This is a story that should make us think of how things could have been done better. Surely with YES/No vote coming this is apt. But it is also a story of dispossession, a love story, a story of history we may not be familiar with, a chance to broaden our perspective. Edenglassie is beautifully crafted by Miles Franklin Award-winning author, Melissa Lucashenko. A must-read for every thinking Aussie. Mara, NSW, 5 Stars
I don’t have words for just how enjoyable this book was. I knew from Lucashenko’s reputation that I was in for some possibly confronting race-relations commentary. What I wasn’t ready for was the joyous militancy of Winona, one of my all-time favourite wise-(and foul!-)mouthed activists. The laugh-out-loud banter between Winona and Dr Johnny is delightful and I could almost hear Winona’s opinion on the current Voice to Parliament debate. Both the 1850s and 2024 storylines are peopled with believable characters of various cultural backgrounds (Indigenous, Scottish, Irish, Chinese, Maori) and when the narratives finally converge, the storytelling is simply lyrical, even, perhaps, mystical. The book contains some beautiful descriptions of Indigenous cultural practices and instances of powerful spiritual connection between people, animals and country. There is also a liberal sprinkling of First Language words from different groups. Lucashenko admits to having taken some liberties with history, but if even some of the atrocities in this book are based on fact, this country has some very shameful incidents in our colonial past indeed. I will most definitely buy and vociferously recommend this extraordinary novel for my school library. Heidi, VIC, 5 Stars
As someone who grew up in Brisbane I was drawn into the places and history. The familiarity of the land while at the same time being so far removed from the city I know. The story goes back and forward. It is a must-read for anyone wanting to know more about where they live and the felt experiences of Indigenous cultures. Tina, QLD, 5 Stars
I found this novel to be greatly enjoyable and saddening, and it gave me a whole new love and respect for the First People of this beautiful land. Certainly encouraged me to speak with the local people and get their view on the pending The Voice 23 vote and how that will benefit or disadvantage them which will help me decide how I vote. Sheree, NSW, 5 Stars
A powerful and evocative novel that skillfully examines identity, family, and the Australian landscape. Lucashenko’s writing paints vivid images of the lush and rugged terrain of the Northern Rivers. The story follows the lives of several characters, including Kerry, who navigates the challenges of her Indigenous heritage in a predominantly white community. What makes Edenglassie memorable is its unflinching portrayal of the deep-rooted racial tensions and social issues faced by the Indigenous population. Lucashenko’s storytelling is both heartbreaking and hopeful, as she weaves together a tapestry of interconnected lives. The characters are authentic and multi-dimensional, making it easy to connect with their struggles and triumphs. Overall, Edenglassie is a unique and evocatively written work that immerses readers in a richly detailed world while shedding light on the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities. Clare, NSW, 4 Stars
Wow, a beautifully written saga through the generations, pulling at the heartstrings long after the final page. Deanne, VIC, 4 Stars
I have lived in Brisbane all my life. Reading the descriptions of how it looked back in the 1850s was so interesting. I didn’t mind that the story would jump from one timeline to the next. It doesn’t happen too often to confuse the reader. I loved the modern-day characters, especially Granny Eddie, Winona and Dr Johnny. I did feel there was a bit too much foul language for my liking, but it did suit the characters, I guess. The characters from the past, Mulanyin and Nita, became very dear to me. I was ashamed of the way they and their families were treated by the early settlers. I’m glad there were people like the Petries around who tried to make a difference. One thing I would have liked to see is a Glossary explaining the Indigenous words. Yes, I was able to work most of these out, eventually, or the story explained it as you got further in but a glossary would have made it easier. Maree, QLD, 4 Stars
The current hyper-focus on what it is to be First Nations, have an independent say and own your culture is addressed in this wonderful piece of historical fiction by Melissa Lucashenko. How wonderful to have historical fiction written from an Aboriginal perspective and in recognisable Australian locations. This novel contains many strong characters with wonderful ideas, thoughts and lives being impacted through the generations from the colonisation of Australia. Jumping between timelines is a popular current feature in many novels and this one jumps between the 1840s – 1850s and current day. Melissa Lucashenko has chosen not to alternate chapters, but to move between timelines when required to build the narratives. Edenglassie lets the reader know that to be remembered, stories must be told. To understand law, culture, right and wrong depends upon your perspective. These are important stories and open a window of cultural understanding for modern Australians. This was an important and special story that has been written beautifully and thoughtfully. Definitely a good read. Lisa, QLD, 4 Stars
Edenglassie is a thought-provoking novel that explores two timelines, that of the colonization of Brisbane area in 1855 and of 2024 Brisbane, and how the past affects the present. I really found the story of Mulanyin set in 1855 interesting, it explained how these Indigenous people lost their land, their people and the cruelty and injustice that happen. I appreciated the strong characters in the story and the use of story to help explain the importance of culture, connection to land and the importance of indigenous law. In current times, Grannie Eddie finds herself in hospital telling her story to a journalist for the Bicentenary week for 2024, whilst her activist granddaughter Winona and Dr Johny have other ideas of what to do for this week. With use of great conversational language and storytelling, the past meets the future. The importance of story-telling, culture and following the traditional law comes up again. The two timelines are easy to follow, I felt like it really offered that climax at the end. I found this novel had so much covered in it, that it was hard to take it all in on a single reading. It feels to me like it is a book that would provide even more insight on a second read. Overall, it was a great thought-provoking book, and I would recommend it to others to read. Fran, VIC, 4 Stars
This was a very powerful story. Not an easy read – a bit like reading a Russian novel with all the Aboriginal words and names and place names. It gave an insight into their culture and law and why they believe what they do. I think it should be at least put into all school libraries if not on the curriculum. Would spark a lot of conversation about Australian heritage. Shifting from mid mid-1800s to present-day was challenging but important in drawing a line between now and then. Loved Eddie Blanket and the ghost of Saltwater Toby. It also showed there are good and bad in all races and the lack of understanding everyone had about each other. No one’s fault, but things were done in ignorance, that would never be done now. We have to accept history and learn from it. Recompense does not heal or change anything. Education for all will go a long way towards healing. It was a book that certainly made me think – I am richer for the experience. Joy, VIC, 4 Stars
Edenglassie gives a wonderful insight into the early days of the Moreton Bay settlement by the English and cleverly shows how the past affects the present. The past chapters were heavygoing because I know how First Nations peoples were treated in Australia. I still enjoyed them, but they were difficult reading. The present chapters were written with Lucashenko’s fabulous use of modern First Nations relationships with each other, white people and the land. Grannie Eddie is the outspoken granny that we all want, and Winona is the attitude we all feel at times. Well worth reading. Kate, VIC, 4 Stars
Such a topical book with the Voice to Parliament referendum currently being debated. We hear the stories of Grannie Eddie, Mulanyin, Winona and Nita, set generations apart. The history of the First Nations people needs to be told and this book does it beautifully. Well written and worth reading. Nicole, VIC, 4 Stars
Based in Brisbane (previously known as Edenglassie), this story highlights the horrible injustices that were brought upon the traditional owners of the land by the British, and shows how those actions still impact people today. Following both stories generations apart was heartbreaking and sobering. This is the first Indigenous-based story I’ve read and it will not be the last. Sarah, QLD, 4 Stars
This read had me feeling a lot of emotion. Set in Edenglassie, an early “settlement” in Brisbane. Two stories told, generations apart, collide with a frank, sometimes brutal, yet extremely thought-provoking tale. The reader is immersed in the stories of Grannie Eddie, Winona, Mulanyin, and Nita. I found the connection to land that the First Nations people have is beautiful and this book helps the reader to understand and feel what the First Nations people have lived through and how their connection is still so valid and beautiful. My heart wept, and I found myself angered at the treatment they endured. This book is extremely relevant and timely, and it is a book that I have put into my favourite pile for the year. Ali, TAS, 4 Stars
The more I read about historical events and the injustice to Indigenous Australians the more I want to shout from the rooftops that it isn’t right. Do people not see the error of their ways? Would they like the same things done to them? A very timely book – especially with what is going on at the moment with The Voice and Indigenous affairs. A great read, and I look forward to reading more books by this author. Annette, NSW, 4 Stars
What a surprisingly great read. This is not my average read but I found it eye-opening and heartwarming. This book follows two parallel stories of Indigenous people in Brisbane, Australia, and while the book moves quite constantly between the two, it was very easy to follow and keep track. The ending was gorgeous and brought it all together perfectly. This book was a bit of a slow burn, with the beginning a little slow as it set the scene, but I urge people to persevere. For me, it was a wonderful look into our Australian culture, and although a work of fiction, this reflects so much of our history that I sadly have very little knowledge of. I also appreciated the use of authentic language, adding to the great writing style and learning for me. Tamara, VIC, 4 Stars
I found this a really interesting, thought-provoking book. It is told in two timelines, one 170 years ago, and the other current day. It is only at the very end that they are tied together. The plight of the First Nations people is stark, particularly in the early timeline when settlement was new. This is definitely a timely novel, and well worth a read. Karen, VIC, 4 Stars
Edenglassie takes us on two journeys, one set in the Brisbane area of 1855, the other set in current times. I particularly enjoyed the historical period which gave an honest, brutal and thought-provoking story. We know this was unfortunately lived by many Indigenous peoples around the world. The author really took you back and you could imagine and feel the harsh realities of that time. You feel the fear, outrage, anger, desperation and injustice. Moving forward in time also reinforces the generational effects of history. Just one word to say: YES. Caroline, NSW, 4 Stars
Edenglassie was like reading two books in one. There is the story of First Peoples, Mulanyin and Nita, from a time long ago, dreaming of their lives together whilst battling with living within a white justice system. Then there is the story of Winona and Johnny, living in the present, caring for the ever-fiery Granny Eddie, bumbling through their own type of relationship, with Johnny endlessly trying to win Winona over. The sharp tongue and wit of Granny Eddie brings laughter as she analyses and interprets the world around her. A great representation of past and present, penning stories of displacement, resilience, hope and of course love. An interesting take on what has come before and what could be. Suzie, WA, 3 Stars
Definitely not a book I would normally pick up but thoroughly enjoyed reading this book for a change up in my reading. Claire, VIC, 3 Stars
Edenglassie is a complex novel moving between two periods of time linking generations of an Indigenous family. Slow at times but still incredibly moving. Early colonial days recreate the harsh conditions and constant misunderstanding between the two races. The modern era shows the activism of the young wanting to claim back the injustices done. At times complicated and hard to follow with constant use of Indigenous terms (a glossary at the back would have been helpful) which jarred the narrative at times. Kathy, NSW, 3 Stars
The constant changing from one time period to another was off-putting. I found myself being taken out of the story time and again. Mary, QLD, 2 Stars
Leave a Reply