Over the next few weeks we’re participating in a work experience program with students from high schools across Melbourne. Here, Emily Gough tells us why she loves Australian books.

How would you describe your taste in books?

I don’t have a specific taste in books, but most of my favourites are Australian classics. I think Australian authors are usually far better writers than international authors. The Australian books I have read are very well written, almost poetic. They usually have relatable characters and I like the realism in them. I haven’t had the same connection with international books.

What are some of the Australian classics that are your favourites?

Some of the following aren’t exactly ‘classic’, but here is a short list of Australian novels that I love:

• Jasper Jones by Craig Silvey
• The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
• Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay
• Remember Me, Jimmy James by Steven Carroll
• The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan
• A Child’s Book of True Crime by Chloe Hooper
• The Book Thief and The Messenger by Markus Zusak
• On the Jellicoe Road, Saving Francesca and The Piper’s Son by Melina Marchetta

Do you and your friends share books with each other?

I have a completely different taste in books compared to my friends. They read young adult fantasies and romances, which I don’t enjoy.

If you could meet any author, which author would it be? Which book of theirs is your favourite?

I would love to meet Melina Marchetta who is one of the few young adult authors I read. For a favourite, I can’t choose between On the Jellicoe Road and Saving Francesca, because they are both so different. Saving Francesca has rare realism when it comes to teenage-coming-of age story, and On the Jellicoe Road is dark and intense.

What is a book you’d love to see made into a film? Who would play the lead role?

I’m so excited that most of my favourite books are already being adapted for films!

I can’t wait for the movie of Jasper Jones, although I’m a little cautious about the casting – as I always am when a favourite book of mine is being adapted. I also can’t wait for The Light Between Oceans, which will star my favourite actress, Alicia Vikander. I’m looking forward to it even though the three main cast members and the director aren’t Australian, and I wish they were. Also, On the Jellicoe Road is currently in pre-production and I heard that Marchetta is also working on the script for Saving Francesca.

I’d like to see The Messenger by Markus Zusak adapted into a film. (I thought The Book Thief was an alright movie, but the book was definitely better.)