Australian author of two novels, John Donnelly’s Indonesian adventure began as a 12-year old when he jumped into a fisherman’s outrigger canoe at dawn in Sanur. He studied Indonesian language and literature at university and lived and worked in Jakarta in the early 1990s. His immersion in the changing life in Jakarta at that time was the catalyst for Blitar Magic Garage. After working in Southeast Asia, the Pacific and beyond, John’s Indonesian journey continues. He now calls regional NSW home, where he is working on bringing more Indonesian tales to the world.

‘Takes readers into the alleys and canals of Setiabudi, a fringe settlement targeted by corrupt developers. Blitar Magic Garage will shine among this year’s novels like a beacon.’ Alison Broinowski, Australian Book Review‘The kampung may be a vibrant place, but it is the characters who give it life.’ Christopher Bantick, Sunday Canberra Times‘Donnelly’s translation of Javanese myth and superstition into magic realism is adept.’ Francesca Beddie, Canberra Times ‘Blitar Magic Garage is a powerful portrait of a modern Jakarta still influenced by ancient mythical beliefs.’ Robert Hefner, author and former Literary Editor, Canberra Times