In The Thinning, acclaimed Australian author Inga Simpson crafts a compelling narrative that intertwines environmental urgency with psychological suspense. Set against the backdrop of a near-future Australia grappling with ecological collapse, the novel follows Fin, a young woman raised by her astrophotographer mother, Dianella, and her astronomer father. Their lives, once centered around the observatory and the stars, have been upended by environmental degradation, forcing them to live off the grid with a group of outliers.

As biodiversity dwindles and extinctions become commonplace, Fin and her community remain on constant alert, prepared to flee at a moment's notice. The arrival of Terry, an 'Incomplete'—a member of a new breed of evolved humans met with widespread distrust—introduces unforeseen challenges. Despite initial reservations, Fin and Terry embark on a perilous journey, driven by a shared mission to restore the natural world and, by extension, humanity itself.

Simpson's narrative is enriched by her profound appreciation for nature, evident in her vivid depictions of the Australian landscape and its celestial wonders. The novel delves into themes of resilience, adaptation, and the intricate bond between humans and the environment. The Thinning serves as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope, urging readers to reflect on the current trajectory of our world.

Key Features:

• Author: Inga Simpson, celebrated for works like Willowman and The Last Woman in the World.
• Genre: Environmental thriller with elements of psychological suspense.
• Setting: A dystopian Australia facing severe ecological challenges.
• Themes: Environmental conservation, human resilience, and the quest for redemption.
• Critical Acclaim: Praised for its evocative prose and timely message.

Author Biography:

Inga Simpson is an esteemed Australian novelist and nature writer, renowned for her evocative storytelling and deep connection to the natural world. Born and raised in central west New South Wales, Simpson's early life was steeped in the Australian landscape, fostering a lifelong appreciation for its unique flora and fauna.

Educational and Professional Background:

• Academic Pursuits: Simpson holds a PhD in creative writing and a second PhD in English literature, with her latter research focusing on the history of Australian nature writing.
• Professional Experience: Before dedicating herself to fiction, she worked as a professional writer and researcher within the government sector, including roles with the Commonwealth Ombudsman.

Literary Contributions:

• Debut Novel: Mr Wigg (2013) marked Simpson's entry into the literary scene, earning critical acclaim and establishing her as a distinctive voice in Australian literature.
• Subsequent Works:
  • Nest (2014): Longlisted for the Miles Franklin Literary Award and the Stella Prize.
  • Where the Trees Were (2016): Explores themes of memory and environmental conservation.
  • Understory: A Life with Trees (2017): A memoir reflecting on her personal relationship with nature.
  • The Last Woman in the World (2021): A dystopian narrative examining human survival and connection.
  • Willowman (2022): Delves into the art of cricket bat-making and the sport's cultural significance.

Accolades and Recognition:

• Awards: Simpson's works have been shortlisted and longlisted for numerous prestigious awards, including the Miles Franklin Literary Award and the Stella Prize.
• Critical Praise: Her writing is celebrated for its lyrical prose, intricate character development, and profound environmental themes.

Personal Life and Inspirations:

• Connection to Nature: Residing on the far south coast of New South Wales, Simpson draws inspiration from her surroundings, often incorporating elements of the Australian landscape into her narratives.
• Advocacy: Through her writing, she emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation and the intricate bond between humans and nature.

Inga Simpson's literary journey reflects a harmonious blend of personal experience, academic insight, and a profound respect for the natural world, solidifying her status as a pivotal figure in contemporary Australian literature.