"A LoveReading Star Book, this clever, thoughtful and eloquently written novel is based on the life of Elizabeth Macarthur who left England for Australia in 1788."
Our August 2020 Book Club Recommendation.
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Glorious! A novel of such startling sincerity, clarity and eloquence it feels as though the narrator herself is stamped onto every page. A Room Made of Leaves is inspired by letters and documents on entrepreneur and pioneer John Macarthur and his wife Elizabeth. They left England in 1788 for New South Wales in Australia when he was posted as Lieutenant to the penal colony of Sydney Town. This is Kate Grenville’s first novel in a decade, she is the author of the 2006 Man Booker shortlisted novel The Secret River. Elizabeth narrates, headstrong and wilful she nonetheless finds she is folding herself smaller and smaller in order to not be observed. Each chapter may be short but they are full of suppressed emotion, candour, and are as compelling as can be. The chapter headings, if all joined together, would create a story in themselves. As each word, as each sentence and chapter flowers, the inner being of Elizabeth opened to allow me to see, and also feel her emotions. The cover is gorgeous and the understanding of the title when it came, made the beauty resonate all the more. Australia is obviously much loved, and I in turn loved reading between the lines of history. Unique and spirited, A Room Made of Leaves truly is a beautiful novel, it also deservedly joins our LoveReading Star Books.
Have a look at our Ambassador Book Buzz for A Room Made of Leaves.
| Primary Genre | Historical Fiction |
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A sweeping, moving novel which brings to life a period of history where women were seen as no more than adjacent to the men in their life.
At the heart of this book is one of the most toxic issues of our times- the seductive appeal of false stories. Beneath the surface of Elizabeth Macarthur’s life and the violent colonial world she navigated are secrets and lies with the dangerous power to shape reality.
A Room Made of Leaves is the internationally acclaimed author Kate Grenville’s first novel in almost a decade.... Read Full Review
A Room Made of Leaves is a beautifully told story that shines a light on someone who was previously left as a rather translucent figure by history.
A Room Made of Leaves is a beautifully told story that shines a light on someone who was previously left as a rather translucent figure by history. I was astounded by the beauty and detail of the book cover and the poignancy of each detail once you begin to read.
The way that Kate Grenville brings Elizabeth into fresh and vibrant life while conveying the events and emotions of the past is pure splendour. I luxuriated in every moment I had to sit and read this rich and warm tale.... Read Full Review
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