'One of the most interesting and valuable writers working in Australia today.' - The Australian
Eleven stories. Each like a matchstick struck to illuminate the darkness. Evocations of place ranging from a Bangla jungle to the deep, blue Danube to a winter beach in Melbourne excite and seduce. But what truly draws the reader in are the unexpected landscapes of people's lives, explored with rare sensitivity, grace and a fearless truthfulness.
A lonely St Kilda chef invites a beautiful busker to use his spare room. A father sings a lullaby to comfort his young daughter who has woken from a nightmare. A taxi driver picks up an old-world gentleman who is reluctant to disclose his destination. A young immigrant boy growing up in the western suburbs of Melbourne daydreams of infinite possibility.
Death, loneliness, passion and belief: Patri takes on the big questions in life and writes about the small people of the world with stylistic verve and deep humanity.
This collection of stories reveals the author, best known for his award-winning novels, as a true master of the short story form.
'...a collection of eleven stories that confirm [A.S. Patric's]craftsmanship as a writer. Patri writes with a profound understanding of thedesperate, catastrophic way that we love.' - Readings Monthly, Book of theMonth
'A. S. Patric's TheButcherbird Stories will take you to places you've never thought of, muchless considered exploring. Patri is an intense writer, and this collectionwill delight and unsettle you, often at the same time. The settings, charactersand themes are both familiar and experimental, of the present and yet timeless.'- The Age
'Patric exposes the worrisome loose ends of daily life withunusual clarity. This collection should be an offbeat treat for fans of theshort story.' - Books+Publishing
'Patri's writing has been compared to the canon; the wit ofPeter Carey; the European modernism of Patrick White; the strangeness of FranzKafka. But beyond the literary comparisons, Patri's writing project connected through his short and longer fictions permits us entry into afilmic subconscious, reminiscent of the movies of Kaufman, Kubrick or Lynch.' - Kill YourDarlings
'Patric's writing looks back to Dostoyevsky and Kafka, tostories of individuals caught by their own capacity for murderous violence, orby the impersonal malevolence of power. And it looks forwards, with the darkarts of the present, towards the chaos to come.' - Australian BookReview
'The collection is expansive, full of life and death. This ishis third collection and represents a treat for lovers of the short stories. Ineach story, regardless of length or theme, his prose has the power to shock.' - Sydney MorningHerald
'A.S. Patri returns to the short form and, I have to say, it'sa deadset triumph. The ButcherbirdStories not only confirms but builds on Patri's reputation as one ofAustralia's finest writers. Each of the eleven stories is a wonder to read:beautifully crafted, edgy, captivating and fresh.' - Bait ForBookworms
'One of the most interesting and valuable writers working in Australia today.' - The Australian
Eleven stories. Each like a matchstick struck to illuminate the darkness. Evocations of place ranging from a Bangla jungle to the deep, blue Danube to a winter beach in Melbourne excite and seduce. But what truly draws the reader in are the unexpected landscapes of people's lives, explored with rare sensitivity, grace and a fearless truthfulness.
A lonely St Kilda chef invites a beautiful busker to use his spare room. A father sings a lullaby to comfort his young daughter who has woken from a nightmare. A taxi driver picks up an old-world gentleman who is reluctant to disclose his destination. A young immigrant boy growing up in the western suburbs of Melbourne daydreams of infinite possibility.
Death, loneliness, passion and belief: Patri takes on the big questions in life and writes about the small people of the world with stylistic verve and deep humanity.
This collection of stories reveals the author, best known for his award-winning novels, as a true master of the short story form.
'...a collection of eleven stories that confirm [A.S. Patric's]craftsmanship as a writer. Patri writes with a profound understanding of thedesperate, catastrophic way that we love.' - Readings Monthly, Book of theMonth
'A. S. Patric's TheButcherbird Stories will take you to places you've never thought of, muchless considered exploring. Patri is an intense writer, and this collectionwill delight and unsettle you, often at the same time. The settings, charactersand themes are both familiar and experimental, of the present and yet timeless.'- The Age
'Patric exposes the worrisome loose ends of daily life withunusual clarity. This collection should be an offbeat treat for fans of theshort story.' - Books+Publishing
'Patri's writing has been compared to the canon; the wit ofPeter Carey; the European modernism of Patrick White; the strangeness of FranzKafka. But beyond the literary comparisons, Patri's writing project connected through his short and longer fictions permits us entry into afilmic subconscious, reminiscent of the movies of Kaufman, Kubrick or Lynch.' - Kill YourDarlings
'Patric's writing looks back to Dostoyevsky and Kafka, tostories of individuals caught by their own capacity for murderous violence, orby the impersonal malevolence of power. And it looks forwards, with the darkarts of the present, towards the chaos to come.' - Australian BookReview
'The collection is expansive, full of life and death. This ishis third collection and represents a treat for lovers of the short stories. Ineach story, regardless of length or theme, his prose has the power to shock.' - Sydney MorningHerald
'A.S. Patri returns to the short form and, I have to say, it'sa deadset triumph. The ButcherbirdStories not only confirms but builds on Patri's reputation as one ofAustralia's finest writers. Each of the eleven stories is a wonder to read:beautifully crafted, edgy, captivating and fresh.' - Bait ForBookworms
Writers young and old know it's hard to create a story of one's own, here's a simple, elegant picture book that might help them find the key. Hint- It involves persistence. A mostly empty page Then...
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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