The Turning is a short story collection written by Tim Winton. The book was published in 2004. It has received critical acclaim for its examination of various themes related to Australian life and culture.
It consists of seventeen interconnected stories all set in the fictional coastal town of Angelus, Western Australia. The stories delve into the lives of different characters and often revolve around themes such as love, loss, family relationships, and the complexities of human nature. For instance, Vic Lang's struggle with his troubled family and his encounter with a mysterious hitchhiker. Moreover, the challenges faced by characters like Raelene and her daughter in their small coastal community. The short stories include "Big World," "Sand," "Commission," "Damaged Goods," "Abbreviation," "Reunion," "Boner McPharlin's Moll," "Immunity," "Aquifer," "The Turning," "Cockleshell," "Small Mercies," "Long, Clear View," "Fog," "On Her Knees," "Family," and "Defender."
Winton's writing style is known for its vivid descriptions of the Australian landscape and its ability to capture the nuances of everyday life. The book was highly praised by critics for its powerful storytelling and the way it examines the emotional depths of its characters. The Turning won several literary awards including the 2005 Christina Stead Prize for Fiction and the 2005 Queensland Literary Awards for Fiction.
