A Brief Chat with Author Garry Disher

Garry Disher has written over 40 books across many genres, including the Wyatt series and the Challis & Destry novels.  We caught up with him at the recent Leading Edge conference. 

What was the last book you read and what are you currently reading?
I have been catching up on Peter Temple's back list, and last week read An Iron Rose. Currently I'm reading a Joyce Carol Oates short story collection, Give Me Your Heart.

Which book from your bookshelf at home is your most treasured and why?
Richard Ford's short story collection, Rock Springs, which I read on spec before I knew anything about Ford and the other 'dirty realists' (Raymond Carver, Tobias Wolff, Bobbie Ann Mason, etc). I later met Ford and Carver. Their books taught me how to write.


Which fictional character do you most identify with?
Jim, in Kingsley Amis's Lucky Jim, a hapless young academic who triumphs over the pompous fools he's obliged to work and live with. A dated book now, but still very funny.
 

What are you working on next?
A crime novel told from the viewpoints of a child and a derided small-town policeman.

Thanks to Garry for taking the time to answer our questions!

Wyatt by Garry Disher, available now at Shearer's Bookshop