The Night Listener by Armistead Maupin

Grab your copy of Armistead Maupin’s gripping psychological novel and join us for an engaging afternoon of literary discussion at The Shakespeare Hotel in Surry Hills. This compact yet profoundly layered story follows a radio storyteller whose connection with a gravely ill teenager named Pete begins to unravel, revealing unsettling questions about truth, memory, and the nature of human connection.

Perfect for fans of introspective fiction and those who appreciate a well-crafted mystery with emotional depth — the book draws inspiration from real-life literary hoaxes and has been lauded for its accessible prose and poignant exploration of isolation and trust. Bonus: it’s got a solid film adaptation starring Robin Williams if you want to binge both.

Books are available from your usual haunts like Amazon or eBay (expect around $30), or you can score a free PDF by reaching out to Dale at dalemills@cantab.net. If you’re library-inclined, Trove suggests about five local copies are available via inter-library loan — City of Sydney charges $3.50 for this service.

We meet upstairs in a semi-private room — cozy, conducive to conversation, and just right for a small group of around ten readers. Look for the sign or ask at the bar if you’re unsure where to go.