In the latest issue of Australian Book Review, ANU Historian Frank Bongiorno takes centre stage as Critic of the Month.

Bongiorno's recent accolades, including the Canberra Critics Circle Award for Non-fiction, ACT Book of the Year, and the Henry Mayer Book Prize for his compelling work, "Dreamers and Schemers: A political history of Australia" attest to his profound contributions to the field.

In his interview, Bongiorno reflects on his journey as a critic, emphasising the importance of contextualising works within broader landscapes of culture, society, and politics. He draws inspiration from renowned critics such as A.J.P. Taylor and Sheila Fitzpatrick, underscoring the significance of depth, breadth, and eloquence in critique.

Bongiorno's insights extend to the editorial process, his selective approach to reviewing, and his stance on negative reviews, all underscored by his commitment to integrity and contribution to the public discourse. As a critic, Bongiorno embodies the responsibility of engaging with literature with sound judgment and creativity, elevating his role beyond mere summarisation to a nuanced and indispensable voice in the literary conversation.

Read the full interview here.