Richard Flanagan

Richard Flanagan is a highly acclaimed author, historian, and film director from Tasmania, Australia. Born in 1961, Flanagan has established himself as one of the most prominent figures in Australian literature. He was the president of the Tasmania University Union and a Rhodes Scholar, showcasing his academic prowess from a young age. Flanagan's works have consistently received significant recognition, with each of his novels attracting major praise and numerous awards.

Flanagan's first novel, Death of a River Guide, was published in 1994 and was shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Award. This was followed by The Sound of One Hand Clapping in 1997 and Gould's Book of Fish in 2001, both of which were also shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Award. His earlier non-fiction titles delve into topics such as the Gordon River, student issues, and the story of conman John Friedrich. Two of his novels, Death of a River Guide and Gould's Book of Fish, are set on the West Coast of Tasmania, where Flanagan spent his childhood in the township of Rosebery. The Sound of One Hand Clapping, on the other hand, is set in the Hydro settlements in the Central Highlands of Tasmania.

Flanagan's literary career has been marked by consistent success and acclaim. According to The Economist, he is considered by many to be the finest Australian novelist of his generation. In addition to his novels, Flanagan has also written and directed feature films. His work has earned him the prestigious Man Booker Prize in 2014, further solidifying his place as one of Australia's most talented and respected authors.