Christchurch
Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand's South Island, has a rich and vibrant literary history. The city has been home to many famous writers, including Nobel Prize winner Katherine Mansfield and poet Denis Glover. The city's literary scene is also thriving, with numerous bookstores, libraries, and literary festivals throughout the year.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Christchurch is the Christchurch City Library, which was designed by renowned architect Sir Miles Warren and opened in 1982. The library is not only a hub for reading and learning, but also a symbol of the city's commitment to literature and culture.
In addition to its physical landmarks, Christchurch is also home to a number of literary events and festivals, including the Christchurch Writers' Festival, which brings together local and international authors for a celebration of writing and literature.
We went to Scorpio Books in Christchurch to source their recommendations for this incredible, end of the world destination.
The Garden Party
by Katherine MansfieldThis collection of short stories, published in 1922, is set in Christchurch and explores themes of identity, class, and gender. The title story follows a young woman named Laura as she prepares for a garden party at her family's home, and grapples with the social expectations placed upon her.
The Bone People
by Keri HulmeThis novel, published in 1985, tells the story of a young boy named Simon who goes missing in the mountains of the South Island. The book explores themes of identity, family, and the relationship between humans and the natural world.
The Vintner’s Luck
By Elizabeth KnoxThis novel, published in 1998, is set in the vineyards of Marlborough, on the South Island. It follows the story of a young winemaker named Sobran Jodeau as he navigates the complexities of love, family, and the wine industry.
The Luminaries
by Eleanor CattonPublished in 2013, this novel is set in the gold rush town of Hokitika, on the West Coast of the South Island. It follows the story of a group of men who are connected by a series of mysterious events, and explores themes of greed, power, and the search for meaning.