First and foremost an aeronautical engineer, Nevil Shute was the author of 20 novels. In 1950 he moved to Australia and his later work explores the nature of its landscape and people. 'A Town Like Alice' has a double setting of Malaya and the Australian outback, both of which he knew well, and the novel explores the different faces of courage. It has a story with a heroine we never forget.

Our highly popular series of lunchtime lectures on great works of literature are brought to you by Dr Jane Mackay. A graduate of three universities, Jane’s obvious love for her subject, penetrating insight, wit, warmth and humanity continue to enthral.