The Picador Book of Contemporary New Zealand Fiction

by Fergus Barrowman (Editor)

This diverse and imaginative anthology of New Zealand fiction, drawn from the last fifteen years, charts the changes and conflicts within New Zealand society as well as the development of a strong and complex literary heritage.
Half the writers emerged during the period the anthology covers; all are still active at its end. Starting with Janet Frame, C. K. Stead and Maurice Gee, the collection goes on to explore the fabular modes of Maori fiction, as demonstrated by Keri Hulme and Witi Ihimaera, and the growing strength of women writers, represented by Sue McCauley, Fiona Kidman and Barbara Anderson (who prompted Nick Hornby to write. 'It now seems only a matter of time before Wellington replaces New York as the literary capital of the world') and closes with the nascent voices of an exciting new wave of young writers, including Damien Wilkins and Emily Perkins.
This anthology is a timely and important look at contemporary New Zealand fiction, and a creative exploration of a living and vibrant literature which both reflects and challenges the changes of its society.

470 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1996