Author Event: Jim Ewing - "Riverboy"

The Portland Library will host author Jim Ewing for an evening conversation about his latest novel Riverboy on Thursday, 7 August, from 6pm to 7.30pm.

Published in June, Riverboy is an evocative coming-of-age story set in 1950s and 60s rural Australia, much of it taking place in Victoria's Western District. This “novelistic memoir” follows an unnamed boy's journey from childhood to mid-teens, exploring his relationships with his immigrant parents and his place within a conservative provincial community of the era.

Ewing, who now lives between Portland and Port Fairy, brings a wealth of life experience to his writing. After leaving school at 15, he worked as a proofreader and cadet journalist at the Warrnambool Standard before pursuing professional football across Australia and Papua New Guinea. His varied career has since included roles as a psychiatric nurse, stockman, merchant seaman, fisherman, diver, and actor, appearing in television productions including Prisoner and Neighbours.

Ewing has published numerous short stories and three novels, with several of his plays having been produced for stage and radio. His work has appeared in publications ranging from Penthouse to Meanjin.

Riverboy focuses particularly on the protagonist's relationship with his British ex-serviceman father, whose background contrasts sharply with the "dinkum blue-collar Anzac dads" of his schoolmates. The novel examines themes of identity, belonging, and family understanding against the backdrop of Victoria's coastal and rural landscapes.

The evening will provide an opportunity for attendees to hear Ewing discuss his writing process, his connection to the Western District, and the experiences that have shaped both his life and his literary work.

This free event is open to all community members.

You may also like the following events from Glenelg Libraries:

• Next Thursday, 17th July, 08:00 am, Libraries After Dark - The Lady & The Unicorn in Portland

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