Australian author and playwright, renowned for his novels and plays that often explore themes of Australian identity, history, and culture, with a distinctive lyrical style.
Renowned for his versatility as a novelist, nonfiction, and short story writer, Robert Drewe has left an indelible mark on Australian literature. With a career spanning over four decades, Drewe's works have been translated into numerous languages and have won numerous awards, cementing his position as one of the country's most celebrated authors.
Born on January 9, 1943, in Melbourne, Victoria, Drewe moved to Perth with his family at the age of six. He was educated at Hale School and began his career in journalism as a cadet reporter at The West Australian. Three years later, he joined The Age and swiftly rose through the ranks, becoming the Sydney chief at the tender age of 21. Drewe's journalistic prowess earned him two Walkley Awards, and he later became the literary editor of The Australian.
In the 1970s, Drewe made the bold decision to shift his focus from journalism to fiction writing. His debut novel, The Savage Crows, was published in 1976, followed by A Cry in the Jungle Bar and The Bodysurfers. This marked the beginning of a remarkable literary journey, with Drewe's subsequent works garnering widespread critical acclaim.
Drewe's works have been successfully adapted into film and television productions. Our Sunshine was made into a 2003 film, retitled Ned Kelly, directed by Gregor Jordan and starring Heath Ledger, Orlando Bloom, and Naomi Watts. The Shark Net was adapted into an ABC-BBC produced international television miniseries and a BBC radio drama. The Bodysurfers also became a successful ABC and BBC production.
In recognition of his significant contributions to Australian literature, Drewe has been awarded a Leader Grant travel scholarship by the United States Government. His works have been translated into numerous languages, and he continues to be celebrated as one of Australia's most accomplished authors.
Born in 1912
A celebrated Australian writer, known for his vivid and poignant portrayals of the human condition, earning him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1973.
92 Years Old
An acclaimed writer of novels, poetry, and plays, known for exploring Australian identity and the human condition through lyrical prose and nuanced characters.
83 Years Old
Acclaimed author of imaginative and historically-inspired novels and short stories that often explore Australian identity and culture, winning numerous awards including the Booker Prize.
65 Years Old
Acclaimed writer of novels and plays that explore the Australian identity, known for vivid storytelling and poignant explorations of human relationships.
95 Years Old
Australian-American novelist, short story writer, and essayist celebrated for lyrical prose and nuanced explorations of human relationships, particularly in her National Book Award-winning novel "The Transit of Venus".
