David Malouf, Australian poet, novelist, short story writer, playwright and librettist, died on 22 April 2026, aged 92. His first novel, "Johnno", a semi-autobiographical tale of a young man growing up in Brisbane during the Second World War, made him instantly famous.
I had read it decades ago, and was delighted to find this audiobook - beautifully read by Shane Porteous - on YouTube. With Padma having gone to a neighbour's place, I was blissfully alone and settled down to what promised to be an eight-part two-hour aural delight. Alas, Hippy Cryptid didn't upload parts 3 to 8. Hippy Cryptid, you've spoilt my day!
Just as I was to continue with the real book from where the audiobook had left off, "there was movement at the station", for the truck from Industrial Replacements had arrived, depositing my brandnew 'Husky' on the lawn - click here. Now I need that audiobook more than ever, as there's nothing nicer than sitting on a ride-one with the earphones on, listening to someone reading a book to me. Come on, Hippy Cryptid!
