The Cupboard Under the Stairs
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature |
| Founder | George Turner |
| Products | Book |
The Cupboard Under the Stairs is a novel by Australian writer George Turner that received the prestigious Miles Franklin Award. It was jointly honored alongside The Well Dressed Explorer by Thea Astley. This book represents the second installment in Turner's "Treelake" series.
Synopsis
The narrative centers on Harry White, who endeavors to reconstruct his life following a six-year period spent in a psychiatric institution.
Critical reception
In a review published by The Canberra Times, Turner's third novel was described as "absorbing and often frightening," with commendations for its technical sophistication and deep psychological understanding, coupled with a sensitive portrayal of human experiences.
Lisa Hill from ANZLitLovers Litblog highlighted the novel's potent social commentary, particularly focusing on the character Jimmy, whose steadfast loyalty to Harry comes at personal sacrifice. Hill remarked that Turner’s depiction confronts the 1960s societal stigmas surrounding mental illness, promoting the entitlement to renewal without fear or misunderstanding.
Notes
The book carries a dedication: "To Betty and Lindsay Bloomfield for one reason and another."
Turner clarifies: "Kilkalla is not based on any specific branch of the Department of Mental Hygiene. To prevent confusion, only broad statements about the experimental nature of the work conducted there have been included."