*Winner of the Nonfiction Award 2020 Adelaide Festival Awards for Literature*
*Winner of the 2019 NSW Premier's History Award: Australian History Prize*
*Winner of the 2019 Prime Minister's Australian History Prize*
*Winner of the 2019 CHASS Australia Book Prize*
*Australian Christian Book of the Year in 2018*
Koby Abberton emerges like a shark on to the sand at Maroubra Beach. Tattooed from shoulder to shoulder, his body bares letters like teeth: 'My brothers keeper'.
In this multi-award-winning history of the Bible in Australia, historian Meredith Lake gets under the skin of a text that's been wrestled with, preached and tattooed, and believed to be everything from a resented imposition to the very Word of God.
A must-read for non-believers and believers alike, The Bible in Australia, now with a new preface, explores how in the hands of Bible-bashers, immigrants, suffragists, evangelists, unionists, writers, artists and Indigenous Australians, the Good Book has played a defining and contested role in this country.
'From the opening words about Bra Boy tattoos,this book had me gripped. It breathes colour, poetry and life into our understanding of the Bible in Australia. A vital, much-needed addition to our understanding of faith in our country.' - Julia Baird
'A book of remarkable originality. Formidably researched yet carrying its scholarship with an enviable lightness of touch, this is a ground-breaking cultural and social history.' -Winner of the 2019 NSW Premier's History Award: Australian History Prize
'Vivid story-telling and impossible to put down' - Mark McKenna
'An endlessly fascinating book...Lake brings a generosity of both mind and spirit to this vast story.' - Michael McGirr,Sydney Morning Herald
*Winner of the Nonfiction Award 2020 Adelaide Festival Awards for Literature*
*Winner of the 2019 NSW Premier's History Award: Australian History Prize*
*Winner of the 2019 Prime Minister's Australian History Prize*
*Winner of the 2019 CHASS Australia Book Prize*
*Australian Christian Book of the Year in 2018*
Koby Abberton emerges like a shark on to the sand at Maroubra Beach. Tattooed from shoulder to shoulder, his body bares letters like teeth: 'My brothers keeper'.
In this multi-award-winning history of the Bible in Australia, historian Meredith Lake gets under the skin of a text that's been wrestled with, preached and tattooed, and believed to be everything from a resented imposition to the very Word of God.
A must-read for non-believers and believers alike, The Bible in Australia, now with a new preface, explores how in the hands of Bible-bashers, immigrants, suffragists, evangelists, unionists, writers, artists and Indigenous Australians, the Good Book has played a defining and contested role in this country.
'From the opening words about Bra Boy tattoos,this book had me gripped. It breathes colour, poetry and life into our understanding of the Bible in Australia. A vital, much-needed addition to our understanding of faith in our country.' - Julia Baird
'A book of remarkable originality. Formidably researched yet carrying its scholarship with an enviable lightness of touch, this is a ground-breaking cultural and social history.' -Winner of the 2019 NSW Premier's History Award: Australian History Prize
'Vivid story-telling and impossible to put down' - Mark McKenna
'An endlessly fascinating book...Lake brings a generosity of both mind and spirit to this vast story.' - Michael McGirr,Sydney Morning Herald
BookLoop is your trusted local Australian destination for books, games, toys, puzzles, tarot cards, stationery, and thoughtful gifts, offering a huge range of carefully curated products for curious minds of all ages. As a proudly Australian-owned bookstore, we are passionate about connecting our community with inspiring reads, creative play, and unique finds that bring joy, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. Whether you're shopping for bestselling fiction, children’s picture books, educational resources, or non-fiction titles that encourage mental health, mindfulness, and personal growth, our ever-expanding book collection has something for everyone—including titles from local Australian authors that celebrate homegrown talent and storytelling. But we’re more than just a bookstore—our diverse range includes engaging puzzles for solo or family fun, educational and screen-free toys designed to develop skills and creativity, and family-friendly board games that bring people together. If you're looking for something with a little extra meaning, our beautifully illustrated tarot cards and oracle decks are perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike, with options chosen for their artistry, symbolism, and accessibility. We also carry a range of gifts and stationery, from handcrafted journals and high-quality pens to bookmarks, greeting cards, candles, and calming tools, making it easy to find the perfect present for birthdays, celebrations, or simply because. Every product on our shelves is selected with care, quality, and purpose, making BookLoop a one-stop shop for thoughtful, meaningful shopping that supports creativity and wellbeing. We believe in the value of small business and community connection, which is why we’re committed to sourcing products that reflect our values and offering the kind of friendly, personalised service that big retailers can’t match. When you shop with us, you’re not only choosing beautifully curated items—you’re supporting a local Australian business that genuinely cares. We ship Australia-wide with a flat rate to keep things simple and affordable, and every order is carefully packed and quickly dispatched by our small, dedicated team. Our online shopping experience is safe, easy, and user-friendly, making it convenient to explore our wide range of books, gifts, and games from the comfort of home. We’ve seen a growing demand for titles and toys that support mental health, especially in children and teens, and we’re proud to stock a growing number of books on ADHD, emotional regulation, positive thinking, and self-esteem, as well as calming puzzles and sensory-friendly gifts that are both fun and supportive. Whether you're looking to inspire a young reader, encourage imaginative play, find your next favourite novel, or gift someone something truly special, BookLoop has you covered. Thank you for choosing to shop local and support a business that believes in the power of stories, creativity, and connection—explore our full collection today and experience the difference of thoughtful, heart-led retail with BookLoop.
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