Aliens & Savages

By Janeen Webb and Andrew Enstice

A new edition of the groundbreaking survey of racism and xenophobia in Australian popular writings before the advent of social media—the only publication of its kind.

An “unashamedly impassioned analysis of ‘our collective cultural amnesia’.” — The Age

Aliens & Savages shows how indigenous Australians and the non-European ‘other’ have been depicted in fiction and non-fiction, personal narratives and official reports, diaries and media misinformation.

The book depicts the unguarded voices of colonists, squatters and politicians, and the close relationship between the popular press and the prejudices of its readers.

First published at the end of the twentieth century, this new edition is timely. Until recently, overt prejudice and racism seemed in full retreat. But now they are reasserting themselves in social media and in political rhetoric, particularly with the rise of neo-nazi and anti-immigration voices.

It is more important than ever that we understand and question the voices which have shaped our society. To quote Anthony Albanese, “A country that does not acknowledge the full truth of its history is burdened by its unspoken weight.”

“A book that anyone interested in Australian history and literature will want to read.”

– The Canberra Times.

Aliens & Savages is available globally: rrp $29.99 (Australia), US$25 (USA), £20 (UK) and €20 (Europe).