Toby Creswell – författare

The History of Australia in 100 Objects is a fresh, accessible take on Australian history. It explores both well- and little-known stories through the objects of the time and the people who made and owned them.Some stories are of pivotal moments in Australia’s past, including the Rum Rebellion, World War I, Federation and the birth of the Native Title Act. And yet sometimes these big events are most powerfully told through a small object belonging to someone long forgotten: a gold locket, a boomerang, a cup and saucer from the Country Women’s Association. Former Rolling Stone editor Toby Creswell takes each object as a starting point to tell the stories that make up our national history, exploring and celebrating key technological, social, political, artistic and sporting moments. From Ned Kelly''s armour to Henry Lawson''s pen and Julia Gillard''s glasses, Creswell’s objects are sometimes iconic, sometimes unexpected and quirky; but the mix creates a compelling, multi-layered story.''Through these often simple yet emotionally charged items, Toby Creswell makes history thrillingly immediate.'' The Sydney Morning Herald

Michael Hutchence was a superstar, an internationally respected musician and a great bloke. There will never be another one to replace him. Born into an eccentric and difficult marriage, Hutchence grew up in different countries before settling into suburban Sydney. He made friends with Andrew Farriss who provided a surrogate family. Andrew''s musicality and Michael''s charisma was from the start till the end, the basis of INXS.For five years INXS were single-minded in their pursuit of being the biggest band in the world. When that was achieved Michael felt the need to move away from a strictly pop life and he pushed himself into more challenging areas. This brought him into conflict with the band.There was also the complication of being a sex god. Michael led a very hedonistic life, and while promiscuous, Michael had a very real fear of separation and a great fear of causing hurt.Shine Like It Does is the story of Michael Hutchence, the artist, the person who took his work seriously and wanted to make great music.