Written by Eva Mitchell

Bringing literature to life for listeners amid the fast pace of modern living, Novel Thinking is the new podcast from UNSW’s Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture (ADA). It showcases the works of Australia’s most acclaimed authors who are also UNSW alumni and staff. 

Featuring New York Times bestseller Markus Zusak, former journalist Kerrie Davies, and award-winning writer Georgia Rose Phillips, the three-part mini-series dives into the creative process behind some of country’s most infamous and iconic literary figures. 

With six million Australians now tuning in to podcasts weekly, and surging while national readership rates are flattening, founding Dean of UNSW ADA, Professor Claire Annesley, said Novel Thinking provides that deep connection to literature many people crave. 

“The phenomenal podcast revolution we are experiencing is great for the retention of long-form information sharing, something that many believe is falling by the wayside. 

“We’re all busy people, multitasking and striving for work-life balance. What’s great about Novel Thinking is that it gives readers a way to enjoy the experience of delving into quality literature during the day-to-day, while advancing knowledge and enriching discussions.” 

From page to podcast: Australian authors share their stories like never before 

In the first episode, former journalist and UNSW Senior Lecturer Kerrie Davies discusses her latest release, Miles Franklin Undercover. Revealing the untold years of the Australian feminist and literary genius’s career in the early 1900s, Davies shares the inspiring process of bringing Franklin’s never-before-published manuscript to life. 

Next in the series, internationally acclaimed Dr Georgia Rose Phillips, who completed her PhD in creative writing at UNSW, speaks about her latest book, The Bearcat. Her powerful reimagining of the early life and family of Australia’s most notorious cult leader, Anne Hamilton-Byrne, Phillips explains the complexity of crafting the character narratives and the origins behind the novel’s striking name.  

Finally, bestselling author of global phenomenon The Book Thief and UNSW ADA alum, Markus Zusak sheds light on his memoir Three Wild Dogs (and the Truth), sharing insight into his creative process, personal stories, and the profound impact of animals on our lives.  

Each of the podcast episodes is hosted by a UNSW ADA academic to unpack the themes, ideas and inspiration behind the novel.  

A reflection of creativity, inclusion and collaboration 

Novel Thinking is an initiative driven by UNSW ADA’s vision and commitment of connecting inquisitive and creative minds to tackle real-world issues.  

Professor Claire Annesley said, “As a faculty, diversity is our strength. We are home to more than 75 different subject areas, and this diverse spectrum of knowledge is what supports our vision of seeking and solving problems to improve life on earth through our guiding principles of creativity, inclusion and collaboration.  

“Novel Thinking reflects our talented community of alumni and staff who are those principles personified. They are our true partners in knowledge creation, bringing new perspectives, challenging us to think differently and make positive changes.”  

Listen to UNSW ADA’s Novel Thinking podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Spreaker.