Discover 'Australian Story: Kevin Rudd and the Lucky Country', a deep dive into the complexities of modern Australia through the lens of Kevin Rudd’s leadership, presented in Quarterly Essay 36. This engaging trade paperback, published by Black Inc in 2009, offers insightful commentary on Australia’s societal challenges and political landscape. With 144 pages of thought-provoking content, Mungo MacCallum explores how Rudd’s narrative reshapes the traditional concept of the Lucky Country amidst shifting public sentiment and economic paradigms.

MacCallum skillfully unravels the myths surrounding Australia, confronting the fading ideals that once defined the nation—endless opportunities, the working man’s paradise, and the notion of Australia as a prosperous new Britannia. In tumultuous times marked by economic instability and ideological shifts, Rudd’s approach invites readers to rethink the essence of national identity.

This edition also features Robert Manne's influential Quarterly Essay Lecture, 'Is Neo-Liberalism Finished?', adding another layer of depth to the discourse surrounding Australian politics. 'Australian Story' serves not just as an analysis of Rudd’s government but as a reflection on Australia’s enduring traditions and their relevance in a rapidly changing world. A must-read for anyone interested in Australian politics, culture, and history, this insightful book is essential for both scholars and general readers eager to engage with the nation’s evolving narrative.