A humourous look at Australian politics through fiction. In the 23rd century, as Gaia’s Curse starts to lift, Canberra is divided. Leaders of local communities revel in grandiosity in a political landscape pervaded by lust, betrayal and power struggles. The nefarious Baron von Belco and his Coalition of the Largely Unwilling attempt to conquer North Canberra, resulting in the most embarrassing battle in military history. The Governor of Gungahlin just wants a quiet life, despite the machinations of his power-hungry Secretary. The demented Mud People of EPIC go on an epic journey to find the earthly paradise of Wagga Bay. The Weston Union attempts to secede from the domains of the Warlord of Woden. Meanwhile the temptress Jezebel, Begum of Jerra, conspires to overthrow dear old Queen Doris of Queanbeyan. The Peoples Soviet Republic of Tuggeranong tries to liberate the peasants held in feudal servitude to the aristocratic Count of Condor, who is under siege by chicken rustlers. South Canberra remains as confusing as its street layout. Yet Canberra is pervaded by the far-sighted legacy of a man long gone – a legacy and a prophecy. canberraesque book by Robert Phillips
In the 22nd century, Australia is so ravaged by climate change that it is no longer a nation. Nor does it have any states and territories. Canberra has been reduced to self-contained communities all of which have their own chief. Oh and the president of Australia still has illusions that he can exert influence in Canberra. He can’t, and the place is descending into battles as chiefs attempt to empire expand.
The book is a light-hearted comedy that is vaguely amusing. The characters are all idiots, so despite the battles, there is no actual violence. There is a great deal of conniving, but it is all a bit of a yawn. The author makes great use of Canberra as a setting, including geography, place names and works of art. So much so, that readers unfamiliar with the capital might find some of the jokes go over their head.
Overall, I found the book to be good fun and a light read. I think it would appeal to longtime residents of Canberra who are familiar with the layout and who can handle a joke or three about their city.