Book Launch: Spies and Sparrows

Readings Carlton, Woiwurrung Country, 309 Lygon St, Carlton, Victoria, 3053

Frank Bongiorno will launch Spies and Sparrows: ASIO and the Cold War by Phillip Deery.

This book explores the political landscape in the wake of the Second World War and the realisation that the Soviet Union had set up extensive espionage networks around the world. Australia responded by establishing its own spy-hunting agency: ASIO. The human cost of ASIO’s monitoring of domestic dissenters is difficult to measure. It is only through recovering the hidden histories of personal damage inflicted by ASIO on both lawful protesters and, in some cases, its own agents, that the extent can be revealed. Phillip Deery’s Spies and Sparrows: ASIO and the Cold War shines a powerful new light on the history of ASIO and raises important and enduring questions about the nature and impact of a state’s surveillance of its citizens.

This event is free to attend but bookings are essential.

Please book here.


With the global health crisis ongoing, we are committed to providing a safe environment for our staff and customers. Please visit

Cover image for Spies and Sparrows: ASIO and the Cold War

Spies and Sparrows: ASIO and the Cold War

Phillip Deery

In stock at 2 shops, ships in 3-4 daysIn stock at 2 shops