The scar on the back of Sweeney's head is shaped like an S. He is obsessed with the beauty of bicycles, which he steals after painting his face in astonishing shapes and patterns.
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Sweeney and the Bicycles (Transit Lounge, $32.99, November 1) by Philip Salom is the story of a traumatised man and how he makes a new family from the most unlikely of friends.
The one act of love he experiences in childhood from his father is the gift of a bicycle but his father takes it away from him.
In adulthood, Sweeney becomes obsessed with stealing bikes - not to sell them but admire their beauty.
Asha Sen is the psychiatrist he begins to see for sessions. Then he meets sisters Rose and Heather, two look-alike women who'd rather be different.
Written with warmth and humour, this captivatingly original novel from the Miles Franklin shortlisted author Philip Salom opens us up to an intimate world of marvellous characters and unexpected developments.
Trauma is balanced by the joys and weirdness of everyday life. Friendship and family just may be found in the unlikeliest of places.
Philip Salom lives in North Melbourne, Australia. His highly acclaimed novels Waiting, The Returns and The Fifth Season have been listed for awards including the Miles Franklin Literary Award in 2017, 2020 and 2021.
His earlier novel Toccata and Rain was shortlisted for the ALS Gold Medal and the WA Premiers Prize for Fiction, and Playback won the WA Premiers Prize for Fiction. His poetry books have twice won: The Commonwealth Poetry Book Prize in London and the Western Australia Premiers Prize for Poetry.
In 2003 Philip was recognised with the Christopher Brennan Prize which is Australia's most prestigious lifetime award for poets - for 'poetry of sustained quality and distinction'.
Therese Murray
Wordsmith. Senior journalist. Editor. I have a proven track record in helping people and communities solve their problems. My career is all about telling stories.
Wordsmith. Senior journalist. Editor. I have a proven track record in helping people and communities solve their problems. My career is all about telling stories.
