UnAustralian of the Year: Words and Pictures by Bill Leak

A new collection of the art and observations of cartoonist and contrarian Bill Leak, this book conveys the contempt felt by the Australian public towards its politicians and political practice. Featuring editorial cartoons from the past five years, this compilation provides a satirical history of an extraordinary period in Australian politics, from the enthusiastic popular mandate enjoyed by Kevin Rudd’s Labor after the 2007 federal election to the brutal merry-go-round of party leaders, and culminating in the rancor and instability surrounding Julia Gillard’s minority government. With acerbic wit, the author also delves into a range of more personal topics, including his recent accident and recovery from brain damage, the blessings of manic depression for the creative artist, the art of editorial cartooning, and portrait painting and the contemporary art scene.