Described by Ali Smith as ‘one of the finest writers alive’ Michelle de Kretser is among Australia’s most acclaimed authors, celebrated for her genre-defying, socially astute fiction. A multiple winner of Australia’s top literary awards, her work is renowned for its sharp intelligence and wit.

Her latest novel, Theory & Practice, blurs the boundaries of fiction, essay and memoir. Set in 1986, it follows a young woman researching Virginia Woolf who becomes entangled with Kit, a student in a ‘deconstructed relationship’. Exploring desire, jealousy and truth, it probes the gap between ideals and lived experience, tangling fiction and non-fiction.

Kate Duignan joins Michelle de Kretser to discuss a celebrated writing career and her triumphant new work.

Verb's official Festival Bookseller, Unity Books will be on-site bookselling, and Michelle de Kretser will be book signing after the event.

This event is part of the 2026 Verb Readers & Writers Festival. Please see verbwellington.nz for more information.

Festival Passes are a great way to save money and enjoy the full festival experience: just $80 for a 4-event pass. They are available until midday Thursday 24 September.

Many thanks to our generous funders, sponsors and members of Verb Community in supporting Verb Readers & Writers Festival 2026.

Contact the host of Michelle de Kretser: Theory & Practice