Author Talk: Holden Sheppard

Award-winning Western Australian author Holden Sheppard returns to the world of his bestselling debut Invisible Boys with Yeah the Boys: a bold, propulsive new novel about male friendship, masculinity, modern gay life and the first gay male AFL player. Raw, brash and fiercely tender, Yeah the Boys is the story of three young men finding their way back to each other – and discovering their own complicated ways of becoming men. It arrives in response to overwhelming reader demand, with audiences repeatedly asking what became of Charlie, Zeke and Hammer in the years since Invisible Boys. This novel answers that question, and then some. Unapologetic and unforgettable, this is Holden at the height of his powers. To unpack the many talking points this novel has to offer, will be our very own library staff member Danni Hilliard. Danni is one of our most enthusiastic readers and reviewers of books and has previously interviewed Holden about his second novel The Brink. Copies will be available to purchase from MacLean’s Booksellers and Holden will be sticking around to chat and sign copies of his books. Ages: Adults 18+ years, 16-17 year olds can attend with parent/guardian. Cost: $10 Bookings essential If you have any access or inclusion needs, you will be able to advise us when booking. AUTHOR BIO Holden Sheppard is one of Australia’s most compelling contemporary voices. His debut novel Invisible Boys (2019) became an Australian bestseller and a modern gay classic, winning multiple accolades including the WA Premier’s Prize for an Emerging Writer and the Hungerford Award. In 2025, it was adapted into a ten-episode television series on Stan Australia. His subsequent novels, The Brink (2022) and King of Dirt (2025), further cemented his reputation, winning major awards and earning widespread critical acclaim.