As we move into the first days of autumn, we have a wonderful mix of powerful new fiction, inspiring true stories and delightful children’ s books to keep you company.

We’ re excited to help you get your garden flourishing this season. With every purchase of Flower Power by Jac Semmler this month, you will receive a complimentary packet of seeds – but be quick, stock is limited. We also have a special offer for the Ultimate travel range this month. Throughout March, you can mix and match any three titles from the Ultimate travel series and pay only for two – the perfect excuse to start planning your next trip!

Our Fiction Book of the Month is A Far-flung Life by M. L. Stedman. This sweeping novel follows generations of the MacBride family, whose lives are shattered by a single event. This epic story of what follows explores themes of family, fate and the consequences of our choices. On page 3, the author talks about the questions that the book raises, the secrets we carry, and the importance of being comfortable with ambiguity.

For our Non-Fiction Book of the Month, we are featuring The Desert Swimmer by Brendan Cullen with Paul Mitchell. Managing a sheep station outside Broken Hill, Brendan Cullen seemed worlds away from the English Channel – until a single advertisement sparked a life-changing challenge. The Desert Swimmer reminds us that small steps can make a profound difference. See page 7 for insights into how this experience transformed the author, as well as his insights into the importance of committing to yourself.

Young readers( and their grown-ups) will be charmed by our Kids’ Book of the Month, Dog Stayed by Tammy Forster and illustrated by Margeaux Davis. When grumpy Mr Hindbottom finds a dog sitting on his porch, he unwittingly opens the door to an unlikely, heart-warming friendship with a lost dog who just might save him. Dog Stayed is a tender celebration of loyalty, love and second chances. On page 12, Forster tells us about how the book came about, the emotional heart of the story, and how Davis’ illustrations add depth and meaning.

This month’ s First Nations feature is Bush Tukka Guide for Kids by Samantha Martin. Adapted from her bestselling Bush Tukka Guide,‘ Bush Tukka Woman’ Samantha Martin shares the knowledge passed down from her mother and Aboriginal Elders in an accessible, engaging way for young readers. For every copy sold during March, Collins Booksellers will donate $ 1 to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

Adult fiction fans have plenty to enjoy this March. Kathy Lette’ s The Sisterhood Rules is a laugh-out-loud novel about twin sisters whose lifelong‘ sisterhood rules’ are blown apart after a shocking betrayal. From the award-winning author of Butter, Asako Yuzuki’ s Hooked is a darkly compelling story of food, loneliness and dangerous obsession. In Vigil, George Saunders introduces Jill‘ Doll’ Blaine, tasked with guiding an unrepentant oil tycoon into the afterlife as a chorus of visitors arrive demanding a reckoning.

Non-fiction readers will be moved and inspired by a range of powerful new titles. Bring Back Yesterday by Bob Carr is a deeply personal grief memoir from one of Australia’ s most respected public figures. For readers interested in leadership, Leading from the Dreaming by Dr Paul Callaghan and Dr Paul Gordon draws on Indigenous knowledge systems and the‘ 8 Rs of Leadership’ to show how an adaptable, curious approach can transform both personal and professional life. Food lovers will relish Home Food by Elizabeth Hewson: comforting meals for real, tired, hungry lives. See page 10 for a special recipe feature.

For young independent readers, we are excited to introduce Your Next Read, a brand-new chapter book series from the creators of Your Kid’ s Next Read, Australia’ s largest online children’ s book community.

Remember to collect a reading guide from your local Collins Booksellers store each month and, as always, speak to your local bookseller for even more recommendations. Every store is independently owned and operated by passionate people who love books and their communities, so you are sure to discover something special every time you visit.

Happy reading! Laura from Head Office

Visit your local store or find us online at collinsbooks. com. au

Collins Booksellers do not price books above the publishers’ recommended retail price( RRP). Stock subject to availability. While every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy of price and availability, these may be subject to change without notice. Major credit cards accepted. Prices valid until 31 March 2026. The views expressed by interviewees in our Q & As are the personal views of the interviewee only and should not be taken to reflect the views of Collins Booksellers, its franchisees or any of their respective staff.

2 Monthly Reading Guide- March 2026