Stranger Country

More about the book

In this captivating account, Chinese Australian journalist Monica Tan embarks on a six-month journey through the outback, seeking to understand her place in Australia. At 32, she realizes she barely knows her country of birth and decides to leave her dream job behind, setting off with just a sleeping bag and tent. Covering thirty thousand kilometers, Monica's travels begin in mid-2016, filled with uncertainty about her identity as a Chinese Australian in a land rich with Indigenous history and powerful myths. As she drives and camps through Australia’s stunning yet remote landscapes, Monica engages with a diverse array of people, including miners, artists, farmers, and community workers, some of whom are Aboriginal, some white, and some Asian. Through shared meals, beers, and conversations, she discovers a deeper connection to the land and its people. This journey becomes a celebration of adventure and a thoughtful quest for belonging, offering a unique portrait of Australia and the myriad meanings it holds for its inhabitants. Monica’s experiences challenge her perceptions and ultimately lead her to surprising insights about identity and community in a country shaped by its diverse cultures and histories.