Bringing the Past to Life

Sydney Writers’ Festival Live and Local

Bringing the Past to Life

A favourite Festival event for historical fiction buffs returns with stories from near and far.

Robbie Arnott’s Dusk, set in the mountains of Tasmania, and Tasma Walton’s I Am Nannertgarrook, based on a true story from Tasma’s family, were both awarded the ARA Historical Novel Prize for their brilliant stories from Australian history. While Booker Prize–winning writer Yann Martel’s first book in a decade, Son of Nobody, features the discovery of a new perspective from the Trojan War.

Sink into these stories of the past with Robbie, Tasma and Yann, in conversation with ABC Radio National’s Kate Evans.

Tea and coffee will be provided.

Sydney Writers’ Festival – Live & Local 2026

Sydney Writers’ Festival is Australia’s largest celebration of books and ideas, bringing the world’s finest authors and esteemed thinkers together for insightful and exhilarating conversations and discussions.

Join us for Live & Local 2026, streamed live by Sydney Writers’ Festival and delivered locally to the Subiaco Library on Thursday 21, Friday 22, Saturday 23, and Sunday 24 May. Prepare to be invigorated and engaged by conversations, debates and discussions featuring some of the world’s finest writers and thinkers.

Additional information

Getting to the event:

Subiaco Library has limited parking bays available. For more information on getting around Subiaco visit the city’s website.

Access and inclusion:

Subiaco Library is wheelchair accessible for additional information please contact Subiaco Library on 9237 9300.

Ticket information:

You are not required to bring a ticket with you. In the case of a booked-out event, names may be checked at the door.

Further information:

For more events and programs at Subiaco Library visit the City of Subiaco events calendar, follow the Subiaco Library on Facebook or join the Cultural Services e-newsletter database by emailing library@subiaco.wa.gov.au