Readings Newsletter
Become a Readings Member to make your shopping experience even easier.
Sign in or sign up for free!
You’re not far away from qualifying for FREE standard shipping within Australia
You’ve qualified for FREE standard shipping within Australia
The cart is loading…

This title is printed to order. This book may have been self-published. If so, we cannot guarantee the quality of the content. In the main most books will have gone through the editing process however some may not. We therefore suggest that you be aware of this before ordering this book. If in doubt check either the author or publisher’s details as we are unable to accept any returns unless they are faulty. Please contact us if you have any questions.
The real thing and other tales is a collection of short stories that examine the complexities of identity, perception, and the contrast between appearance and reality. The narratives of the real thing and other tales explore how individuals navigate social expectations and artistic interpretation, particularly through the lens of class, ambition, and personal reinvention. The opening story introduces an artist visited by a once-privileged couple seeking work as models, challenging his notions of authenticity and representation. Their dignified presence contrasts with their inability to embody the artistic qualities required for his work, highlighting the tension between genuine experience and the illusion necessary for creative expression. Throughout the collection, characters confront moments of self-discovery and the shifting nature of truth, often revealing unexpected contradictions between who they are and how they are perceived. With a nuanced exploration of human psychology and social roles, the book offers a sophisticated meditation on the intersection of reality and art.
$9.00 standard shipping within Australia
FREE standard shipping within Australia for orders over $100.00
Express & International shipping calculated at checkout
Stock availability can be subject to change without notice. We recommend calling the shop or contacting our online team to check availability of low stock items. Please see our Shopping Online page for more details.
This title is printed to order. This book may have been self-published. If so, we cannot guarantee the quality of the content. In the main most books will have gone through the editing process however some may not. We therefore suggest that you be aware of this before ordering this book. If in doubt check either the author or publisher’s details as we are unable to accept any returns unless they are faulty. Please contact us if you have any questions.
The real thing and other tales is a collection of short stories that examine the complexities of identity, perception, and the contrast between appearance and reality. The narratives of the real thing and other tales explore how individuals navigate social expectations and artistic interpretation, particularly through the lens of class, ambition, and personal reinvention. The opening story introduces an artist visited by a once-privileged couple seeking work as models, challenging his notions of authenticity and representation. Their dignified presence contrasts with their inability to embody the artistic qualities required for his work, highlighting the tension between genuine experience and the illusion necessary for creative expression. Throughout the collection, characters confront moments of self-discovery and the shifting nature of truth, often revealing unexpected contradictions between who they are and how they are perceived. With a nuanced exploration of human psychology and social roles, the book offers a sophisticated meditation on the intersection of reality and art.