New Fiction (Press, 20 June 1959)

On 20 June 1959, several notable books were reviewed, offering a glimpse into diverse narratives and character portrayals. The first book is "Collins" by John P. Marquand, a novel that focuses on Thomas Arrow, a New York playwright who, despite his material success, struggles to find true happiness. Marquand presents Arrow as a kind and compassionate character, whose troubles stem from his selflessness. The pacing of the story is leisurely until reaching a powerful climax that solidifies Arrow’s journey to self-awareness and manhood. Next is "Mademoiselle B." by Nancy Pearson, a sensitive tale set in a French girls' school, depicting a significant friendship between an eighteen-year-old student and a mysterious staff member. The story takes a turn when secrets of Mademoiselle B.'s past reveal the complexities of her emotions, leading to a tragic rejection by the girl, who grapples with an unexpected homosexual undertone in their bond. "Sammy Anderson, Commercial Traveller" by H. D. Williamson features a commercial traveller in Sydney, presenting not just Sammy's story but those of his fellow travellers as well. Williamson portrays rural New South Wales' way of life with perceptive and vivid storytelling, showcasing a rich array of human experiences seldom highlighted in literature. In "The World of Henry Orient," debut author Nora Johnson adeptly captures the inner lives of young girls at a New York school. The friendship between talented musician Valerie and sincere classmate Marian evolves amidst personal challenges, including Valerie's unstable family life and the complexities of adolescent relationships, culminating in a poignant exploration of youth. "Goldfinger" by Ian Fleming brings back James Bond in another adventure, this time facing Auric Goldfinger, a character with a pathological obsession with gold. The novel's mix of cynicism and thrilling escapism captivates, although some critics feel it stretches credibility too far during its climactic raid on Fort Knox, raising concerns about the believability of the plot. Leslie Blight’s "The Stone Pigeon" presents a raw narrative set in rural Worcestershire, where family dynamics and the repercussions of war are explored through the lens of old Meredith’s damaging legacy. The story delves into themes of mental illness and the nuances of rural life, enriched by its detailed character portrayals. In "The Hellbuster," Frank Bruno offers a glimpse into early New Zealand's violent past, characterised by coarse storytelling that eschews introspection. Bruno’s narrative unfolds in 1843, presenting a gritty tale of survival and moral complexities as characters navigate a rough colonial environment, showcasing both violent actions and the harshness of early settler life. Finally, Ronald Fraser’s "Jupiter in The Chair" attempts to merge science fiction with comedy, exploring an interplanetary conference at Abbotsfield. Despite its ambitious premise, the narrative is critiqued for being confusing and hard to follow for new readers unfamiliar with Fraser’s earlier works, struggling to blend whimsy with complex themes. Overall, these works reflect diverse human experiences and the authors’ unique narrative styles, each contributing to a rich tapestry of storytelling in the literary world of 1959.

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