Reading recommended by robots
A small experiment inspired by an AI debacle
You may have read how the Chicago Sun-Times and other newspapers recently ran a summer reading list that included made-up books. If not, you can do so here.
The culprit was a freelance writer who not only used AI to compile the list, but didn’t fact check the output.
So, for fun, I thought I’d ask ChatGPT to compile a list of books and see what it came up with. Rather than a summer reading list (not least because we’re heading into winter here), I requested a top 10 of books by Brisbane authors.
Here are the results — including links to sources — which I believe are a little more reliable than the American experiment.
1. Edenglassie by Melissa Lucashenko
A dual-timeline novel intertwining the 1850s and present-day Brisbane, exploring the impact of colonization on Indigenous communities. The story delves into themes of resilience and cultural identity. (The Guardian)
Melissa Lucashenko is a Goorie author of Bundjalung and European heritage. Her works often focus on Aboriginal experiences in contemporary Australia. She has received multiple literary awards, including the Miles Franklin Award. (Wikipedia, Guardian)
2. Johnno by David Malouf
A semi-autobiographical novel set in post-war Brisbane, chronicling the friendship between the narrator and the rebellious Johnno. The book captures the city's transformation and the complexities of youth. (Walk Brisbane)
David Malouf is a renowned poet and novelist born in Brisbane. His literary contributions have earned him international acclaim, including the Neustadt International Prize for Literature. (Wikipedia)
3. Love Stories by Trent Dalton
A collection of real-life love stories gathered from Brisbane residents, offering a heartfelt exploration of love in its many forms. The book was adapted into a stage production for the Brisbane Festival. (The Courier-Mail, The Australian)
Trent Dalton is a journalist and author known for his deep storytelling and connection to Brisbane. His debut novel, Boy Swallows Universe, was a bestseller and critically acclaimed. (Walk Brisbane)
4. Zigzag Street by Nick Earls
A humorous novel following Richard Derrington, a young man navigating life and love in Brisbane's Red Hill suburb after a breakup. The story captures the quirks of Brisbane life in the 1990s. (Secret Brisbane)
Nick Earls is a Brisbane-based author whose works often depict the city's culture and lifestyle. He has written numerous novels for adults and young adults, receiving several literary awards. (Wikipedia)
5. He Died with a Felafel in His Hand by John Birmingham
A comedic memoir detailing the author's experiences living in various share houses across Australia, including Brisbane. The book offers a candid look at communal living and youth culture.
John Birmingham is an author and journalist who began his writing career in Brisbane. His works span genres, including memoir, fiction, and commentary.
6. To Become a Whale by Ben Hobson
Set in 1960s Queensland, the novel follows a young boy coping with the loss of his mother and a strained relationship with his father, set against the backdrop of the whaling industry.
Ben Hobson is a Brisbane-based author and teacher. His debut novel received critical acclaim, and he continues to write stories that explore complex family dynamics. (Ben Hobson)
7. The Ottoman Motel by Christopher Currie
A coming-of-age mystery about a boy whose parents disappear during a family trip, leading him to uncover secrets in a small Australian town.
Christopher Currie is a Brisbane author and bookseller. His writing often delves into themes of identity and belonging.
8. Triptych by Krissy Kneen
A novel exploring the lives of three interconnected characters, delving into themes of desire, identity, and the complexities of human relationships.
Krissy Kneen is a Brisbane-based writer known for her candid and explorative works. She has authored several novels and memoirs, often focusing on personal and intimate narratives.
9. Brown Skin Blue by Belinda Jeffrey
The story of a young boy of mixed heritage grappling with his identity and place in the world, set in a coastal Australian town.
Belinda Jeffrey is an author and educator from Brisbane. Her works often address themes of diversity, identity, and social issues. (Goodreads)
10. Gaysia: Adventures in the Queer East by Benjamin Law
A travel memoir exploring LGBTQ+ communities across Asia, blending personal anecdotes with cultural insights.
Benjamin Law is a Brisbane-born writer and journalist. He is known for his work on cultural and social topics, including his memoir The Family Law, which was adapted into a television series. (Goodreads)
For the record, while I acknowledge the usefulness of AI as a tool, I encourage everyone to read books (and blogs) by real humans.)