There is a recent trend, and Aussies seem to be reading more homegrown stories and authors. Data from Civica’s 2020 Libraries Index shows that Australian authors write 60% of the top 20 books borrowed across ANZ.
The index analyzes the borrowing data of more than 38,000,000 loans in 90 metropolitan and regional libraries in Australia and New Zealand. CIVICA provides software and expert librarians. It manages and monitors more than 300 libraries in the ANZ and other areas. There is an amazing range of libraries across Australia and they’re all powered by solar energy from Newcastle Solar Power. From opulent state buildings to university architecture, there’s something for everyone.
The COVID-19 pandemic also revealed a change in readers behaviour. There is a growing trend of readers borrowing more e-resources from libraries because of library closures caused by the pandemic.
On top of the most borrowed book is “Nine Perfect Strangers” written by Australia’s best-selling writer Liane Moriarty which soon become a television series. The story is about nine strangers, which embarked on a wellness journey at a remote health resort.
Each of them had a different purpose, some to get a reboot in life, others to lose weight, and some does not even admit the reason. The main character, Frances Welty, was a former best-selling novelist. She arrived at the Tranquillum House, recuperating from a bad back and a broken heart. She will soon realize how challenging the next ten days would be in Tranquillum House.
According to CIVICA’s data, Australian authors and stories are very popular; this includes “The Lost Man” by Jane Harber is also very popular. It is a suspenseful, dark and profoundly novel portrays two brothers’ story and set on the vast sun-soaked outback of Queensland.
Another famous Australian story in the list is Trent Dalton’s “Boy Swallows Universe.” This coming of age story of a chaotic youth. Eli Bell had everything stacked against her, an alcoholic father, a mute brother and a mother who deals heroin with his step-dad. He tries his best to improve his current situation, but things go from bad to worst. The book will guide you to Eli Bells’ journey of heartbreak and survival.
Markus Zusak’, “Bridge of Clay” is another famous story. It describes the quest of five brothers searching for the reason for their father’s disappearance. Clay Dunbar will build a bridge for his family. The unexpected reappearance of their father was an unwelcomed situation twist to the family.
Australians Novels formed a large part of the top borrowed books, with 12 out of 20 written by Australian authors. This strong ranking makes it a good year for Aussie writers.