Six books the PM should read over the holidays (and you might like them too)
It’s been an extraordinary year in politics – and no doubt many politicians are well and truly ready for a summer holiday. To help our leaders make the most of their time off, Grattan Institute has curated a list of this year’s must-reads – a curiosity-piquing platter of novels, think-pieces, memoirs and manifestos.
These books have three things in common: they’re thoroughly readable, they have something worth saying, and they’ll stick with you. We think they deserve a place on the bookshelf in Kirribilli House, as well in as your own office or beach-bag.
Here’s our Top Six for 2018, in no particular order:
Factfulness: Ten reasons we’re wrong about the world – and why things are better than you think – Hans Rosling
The People vs Democracy: Why our freedom is in danger & how to save it – Yascha Mounk
Rusted Off: Why country Australia is fed up – Gabrielle Chan
No Friend but the Mountains: Writing from Manus Prison – Behrouz Boochani
Women & Power: A Manifesto – Mary Beard
Flames – Robbie Arnott
Register to attend the launch of this year’s list on Tuesday, 4 December to hear how we chose the books, and what messages the government might take away from them. Melbourne-based journalist Madeleine Morris will join Grattan Institute CEO John Daley in Melbourne to discuss how this year’s titles illuminate some of Australia’s most important debates.
This year we are proud to publish our list in partnership with Readings – an Australian independent retailer. The books can be purchased at Readings’ table which will be set up at the event, at any of Readings seven shops in Melbourne, or via Readings online.