Jared Kavanagh edits a collection of short stories set in different Australias.
What if what we call Australia had become largely Dutch? Could Australia have led intervention in unexpected African conflicts? What adventures might Napoleon Bonaparte have had as he sought to colonise it before the British? Could a space programme launched Woomera have reached the Moon? How might the Emu War have gone differently?
It’s time to turn Down Under upside-down.
Alternate Australias
Published by SeaLion Press
Stories
Key themes and stories
Dutch influence: One story explores what Australia would be like if it became predominantly Dutch.
French colonization: Another story posits a scenario where Napoleon Bonaparte attempts to colonize the continent before the British (by Andrew J Harvey).
Space program: An alternate timeline features a successful Australian-led space program reaching the Moon from Woomera.
Global role: A story called “The Savannah War Dispute” presents an alternate conflict in East Africa with Australian intervention.
Historical divergences: Each story is followed by an explanation of the historical point of divergence and the author’s inspiration.
Critical reception
Overall: Critics have praised the anthology for its imaginative scenarios and engaging storytelling. Some reviews suggest that while the quality can vary, it is still a worthwhile read, according to Amazon.com.au users.
Recommendation:Warped Factor recommends the book, suggesting readers “give this little book a look post-haste”.
Variety: The collection is noted for offering a variety of stories in a setting that is not frequently seen in the genre.
