One of the all - time best Australian novels is 'The Thorn Birds' by Colleen McCullough. It tells a complex and passionate story of love and sacrifice against the backdrop of the Australian outback.
Then there's 'The Harp in the South' by Ruth Park. This novel gives a detailed look at the working - class life in Sydney. It shows the hardships, the dreams, and the community spirit of the people living in the slums. Park's work is an important part of Australian literature as it sheds light on a different aspect of Australian society.
Well, 'Voss' by Patrick White is considered among the best. It's a complex exploration of the Australian landscape and the human psyche. The story of Johann Ulrich Voss, an explorer, is intertwined with themes of love, ambition, and the vastness of the Australian continent. Then there's 'My Brilliant Career' by Miles Franklin. This semi - autobiographical novel gives insights into the life of a young woman in rural Australia, her dreams and struggles. Also, 'The Harp in the South' by Ruth Park is a great Australian novel that shows the working - class life in Sydney's slums.
Another one could be 'Quicksand' by Steve Toltz. This novel is known for its complex characters and darkly humorous take on family, fate, and the Australian landscape.
Peter Corris' 'Cliff Hardy' series is also great. These novels feature the hard - boiled detective Cliff Hardy as he navigates the seedy underbelly of Sydney. The books are known for their realistic portrayal of Australian urban life and the detective's tenacious investigations.
Well, 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' by Joan Lindsay is considered among the best. It has an air of mystery and the Australian landscape plays a huge role in creating an eerie atmosphere. Then there's 'True History of the Kelly Gang' by Peter Carey. It gives a unique perspective on the infamous Ned Kelly, delving deep into his character and the Australian bushland setting.
Well, 'Don Quixote' by Miguel de Cervantes is often considered one of the all - time best novels. It's a humorous and poignant exploration of chivalry and delusion. Then there's 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte. This novel tells the story of a strong - willed woman's journey through love and self - discovery. 'Lord of the Flies' by William Golding is also highly regarded. It examines the dark side of human nature when left without the constraints of society.
One of the all - time best novels is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a classic that explores themes of love, marriage, and social class in 19th - century England. The relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is both complex and charming.
One of the well - known ones is 'The Thorn Birds' by Colleen McCullough. It beautifully weaves a story of love and sacrifice against the backdrop of the Australian outback. The complex relationships and the vivid description of the outback landscape make it a classic in this genre.
Many best Australian novels often feature the unique Australian landscape. For example, the vast outback, the coastlines, etc. They are used not just as a backdrop but also as a character in a way. They also tend to explore the Australian identity, which is a mix of the indigenous heritage and the colonial influence.
One more to mention is 'The Book of the Unnamed Midwife' by Meg Elison. It's a dystopian fantasy set in a world where most of the population has been wiped out by a plague. The midwife in the story is a strong and complex character, and the book offers a unique take on survival in a harsh and changed world.