Annie Magdalene

From legendary Australian feminist writer Barbara Hanrahan, Annie Magdalene is a quietly moving, funny and perfectly formed novel of a beautifully ordinary life. With a new introduction from Farrin Foster.

Born at the turn of the century, Annie Magdalene grows up in a suburban cottage in Adelaide. She is devoted to her family but makes up her mind when she is sixteen that she doesn’t want a husband or children, instead prioritising friendship, work, independence and a sense of self.

In a style that is both simple and full of wonder, legendary Australian feminist artist and author Barbara Hanrahan creates a full portrait of life – its small pleasures, its beautiful flaws, and its inevitable intersections with death. 

First published in 1985, Annie Magdalene still feels entirely fresh, capturing sleepy war-era Australia as well as many universally enduring truths. With a new introduction from Farrin Foster, this is a moving, funny and perfectly formed novel of a beautifully ordinary life.

‘Quietly and gleefully challenging.’ – Farrin Foster

‘Hanrahan’s tour de force.’ – The Canberra Times

‘A small treasure.’ – Los Angeles Times