Winning Histories – Sydney Writers' Festival

Join the History Council of NSW alongside a panel of four leading historians, Dr. Margaret Cook, Dr. Shannyn Palmer, Nicole Cama and Associate Professor Jan Láníček, who will discuss the dual art of crafting award-winning histories and captivating narratives for diverse audiences.

This forum brings together esteemed historians, writers, and scholars to delve into the intricate balance between creating scholarly rigor and engaging storytelling. Our authors will explore the dynamics of writing histories that respond to questions and ideas with relevance to national or local interest, as well as seeking to tell stories that resonate with larger audiences.

We'll delve into the nuanced artistry required to bridge the gap between academic excellence and accessibility. Award-winning histories often exemplify meticulous research, innovative methodologies, and groundbreaking perspectives. They challenge conventions, redefine narratives, and contribute significantly to our understanding of the past. However, an equally important facet is crafting histories that captivate broader audiences without sacrificing accuracy or depth. These narratives weave compelling stories, utilizing evocative language and relatable contexts to ignite curiosity and empathy. Our esteemed panelists will share insights into their approaches, discussing the challenges of balancing scholarly integrity with storytelling prowess. They'll explore strategies for making complex historical contexts accessible without oversimplification and maintaining authenticity while appealing to diverse reader interests.

Join us for an enlightening exchange that explores the artistry behind histories that claim accolades within academia while also capturing the imagination and hearts of a broader public audience.

The History Council of NSW is supported by the NSW Government through a grant from Create NSW

Image credit: Woman writing letter – Condobolin, NSW photographed by Ron Maslin. SLNSW Collection https://collection.sl.nsw.gov.au/record/n883dBRn/Lg4vyLgDPpz8y#viewer