Terra Nullius

by Claire G Coleman
Terra Nullius cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 3613
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9780733638329
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2017-08-29
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Terra Nullius is a groundbreaking debut novel that artfully combines elements of literary, historical, and speculative fiction. Claire G. Coleman crafts a powerful allegory that challenges the traditional narrative of Australian colonization, offering a fresh and unsettling perspective on the country's history. The story follows Jacky, a Native of the Colony, as he flees from the oppressive Settlers, who seek to enforce reeducation and control. This richly imagined world is both familiar and alien, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths about power, resistance, and the legacy of colonization. Highly acclaimed and shortlisted for numerous awards, Terra Nullius is a striking exploration of Indigenous survival and the enduring impact of historical trauma. Coleman's unique voice and skillful storytelling make this novel a compelling and unforgettable read, perfect for fans of dystopian and speculative fiction.

Reviews
Whispering Gums · 2018-04-05
thoughtful 3.50

They appreciated the book's unique perspective on white Australian readers and the use of epigraphs, but found some aspects challenging.

The reviewer found the book's strength in its ability to position white Australian readers in a thought-provoking way. The use of epigraphs was particularly liked, adding depth to the narrative. However, they also struggled with certain elements, indicating that the book presents complex themes that may not be easily digestible for all readers. Overall, the reviewer acknowledges the book's powerful impact and the way it handles difficult subjects.

Quick quotes

    The strength of the book for me was the way in which it positioned me as a white Australian reader.

    I liked the epigraphs for this.

    I struggled ...

The Gospel Coalition Australia · 2018-03-29
inspiring 4.00

They found the book harrowing yet surprisingly hopeful, with a generous spirit despite its heavy subject matter.

The reviewer was struck by the book's ability to tackle harrowing subject matter with a surprisingly generous and hopeful spirit. They appreciated that not all characters were depicted as one-dimensional villains, adding nuance to the narrative. The book's exploration of heavy themes is balanced by moments of hope, making it a compelling read. The reviewer admires how the book handles its difficult subjects with a sense of generosity and optimism.

Quick quotes

    In fact, for a story made up of such harrowing subject matter, the book has a surprisingly generous and hopeful spirit.

    Not all the settlers are ...

    The book's exploration of heavy themes is balanced by moments of hope.

Books Are My Favourite and Best · 2018-02-16
balanced 3.00

They found the book well-written and thought-provoking, though speculative fiction is not their usual preference.

The reviewer acknowledged that speculative fiction is not typically their genre of choice, but they appreciated the book's well-written and thought-provoking nature. They recognized the book's strengths in its exploration of complex themes and its ability to engage readers who might not typically enjoy speculative fiction. The reviewer's rating reflects a balanced view, acknowledging both the book's merits and their personal preferences.

Quick quotes

    A tricky one to rate – speculative fiction is simply not my thing however I appreciate that Terra Nullius is well-written and thought- ...

    The book's strengths in its exploration of complex themes.

    The reviewer's rating reflects a balanced view, acknowledging both the book's merits and their personal preferences.

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