Parra Pods

What makes a book a classic? The fact that it is beloved? That it has stood the test of time? That it is of a quality that makes it stand out? Like fairytales and folk tales before them, children’s classics are usually a mix of all of these things. Join Nisa and Antonia as they talk about some established and modern classics for children:      Chronicles of Narnia: the lion, the witch and the wardrobe by C. S. Lewis. (Originally published) Geoffrey Bles, 1950. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. (Originally published) Reynal & Hitchcock, 1943 Are you there God? It’s me, Margaret by Judy Blume. (Originally published) Bradbury Press, 1970 Hitler’s daughter by Jackie French. HarperCollins Publishers, 1999

Spanning the last years of primary and all the way up to early adulthood, young adult fiction has an appeal that knows few bounds. Back by popular demand, this is the third in our series of YA book chats. Join Nisa and Antonia as they discuss the following titles:   Listen Layla by Yassmin Abdel-Magied. Penguin Books, 2021   Catching Teller Crow by Ambelin Kwaymullina and Ezekiel Kwaymullina. Allen & Unwin, 2018   Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas. Walker Books, 2021   The Selection by Kiera Cass. Harper Collins, 2012

Thrillers and crime fiction are genres of writing that fascinate the reader through the depiction of danger, of darkness, of suspense and anxiety that surrounds the criminal or crime-related events described in the story.   Join Nisa and Bryony as they discuss some books that fall neatly and not-so-neatly within the overlapping boundaries of these genres:   The Herd by Andrea Bartz, Ballantine Books, 2020   Keeper by Jessica More, Penguin, 2020   Your House Will Pay by Step Cha, Faber & Faber, 2019   The Animals of Lockwood Manor, Mantle, 2020

Fantasy Fiction Sitting under the umbrella of ‘speculative’ fiction, Fantasy Fiction pulls the reader into a universe made up of complex relationships, of magical beings, of fascinating creatures and of supernatural elements that are often based on or influenced by existing myths and mythology. Join Nisa and Rachel as they discussed two novels and two novellas in the genre:   The Bone Shard Daughter by Andrea Stewart. Orbit, 2020 The Unspoken Name by A. K. Larkwood. Tor, 2020 The Empress of Salt and Fortune by Nghi Vo. Tor, 2020 Order of the Pure Moon Reflected by Water by Zen Cho. Tor, 2020

YA books can be about love, loss, transitions, first experiences, school, future aspirations… anything experienced by young people. What makes YA literature unique is that the perspective is a teenage one. Back with more YA in 2021, join Nisa and Antonia for the first set of books they’d like to highlight:   On the Come Up by Angie Thomas. Walker Books, 2019 A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. Electric Monkey, 2019 Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo. Hot Key Books, 2020 Welcome to the New World: Waking Up in Trump’s America by Jake Halpern and (illustrated by) Michael Sloan. Bloomsbury Publishing, 2020.   Craving some more YA chat? Checkout our other YA podcast here!

One of the greats of espionage fiction – John le Carre – passed away at the end of 2020. Join Nisa and Sandra as they take a quick tour through some of his books and focus on two titles in particular:     Our Kind of Traitor - John le Carre. Viking, 2010   The Night Manager - John le Carre. Hodder and Stoughton, 1993

One of the most popular fiction genres, mysteries take the reader on a journey that involves trying to solve a puzzle, finding clues, engaging in logical deduction, considering (and discarding) red herrings… the who, why and how of a crime that must be solved, an event that must be explained.   Join Nisa and Crystal as they discuss a mix of classics and new books in the genre: Death in the East - Abir Mukherjee. Penguin Random House, 2019 The Thursday Murder Club - Richard Osman. Viking Press, 2020 Murder on the Orient Express - Agatha Christie. Collins Crime Club, 1934 and Murder on the Orient Express - Agatha Christie and François Rivière. Harper, 2007 A Study in Scarlet - Arthur Conan Doyle. Beeton’s Christmas Annual Magazine, 1887

Horror Fiction seeks to thrill, to terrorise, to tap into the dark side of humanity. Sitting under the umbrella of ‘speculative’ fiction, Horror Fiction combines and contrasts the known with the unknown to induce a feeling of dread in the reader. Join Nisa and Rachel as they discuss a mix of classics and new books in the genre: Bird Box / Josh Malerman. Harper Voyager, 2014 and Malorie: a Bird box novel / Josh Malerman. Orion Fiction, 2020   The Southern Book Club's guide to slaying vampires / Grady Hendrix. Quirk Books, 2020   Carrie / Stephen King. New English Library, 1974   Frankenstein / Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley. Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor & Jones, 1818

Yan’s Recommended Reads! Are you wondering what to read next? Well, maybe this episode will give you some ideas. Happy Listening! Books mentioned in this podcast include: Death in Daylesford, a new Phryne Fisher mystery by Kerry Greenwood Earthly Delights Series by Kerry Greenwood What is life? Understanding Biology in Five Steps by Paul Nurse Phosphorescence: On Qwe, Wonder and Things That Sustain You When the World Goes Dark by Julia Baird Neuroscience of Mindfulness: the Astonishing Science Behind How Everyday Hobbies Help You Relax by Stan Rodski -  The eAudiobook  & eBook editions of Neuroscience of Mindfulness is available to download from our BorrowBox Library

A tricky genre to define, Scifi or ‘Science Fiction’ is more than just space ships and aliens. Scifi is a genre that looks at the world that was and imagines a world that can be. Sitting within the family of what is considered to be ‘speculative’ fiction, Scifi entertains, thrills and makes us consider some important questions about ourselves, our world and the universe(s) beyond us.   Join Nisa and Rachel as they discuss these books:  The Hidden Girl and other stories by Ken Liu. Head of Zeus, 2020 Bone silence by Alastair Reynolds. Hatchette, 2020 The War of the Worlds by H. G. Wells. (originally published by) William Heinemann, 1898

In this episode of Parra Pods Yan shares her love of translated literature with listeners. Yan is City of Parramatta Libraries resident expert on translated literature and always manages to surprise us with the diverse range of books she gets through! Below are just a few of the authors & titles Yan talks about in this podcast. Happy Listening!   ‘Shadow of the Wind’, ‘The Angels Game’, ‘The Prisoner of Heaven’ & ‘The Labyrinth of Sprits’ by Carlos Ruiz Zafon One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez Along the Trenches: a Journey Through Eastern Europe to Isfahan by Navid Kermani ‘The Name of the Rose’, ‘Foucault’s Pendulum’ & ‘On the Shoulders of Giants’ by Umberto Eco ‘Sapiens’, ‘Home Deus’ & ‘21 lessons for 21st Century’ by Yuval Noah Harari ‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’ & Farewell Waltz by Milan Kundera ‘Norwegian Wood’ & Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami ‘Red Sorghum’, ‘The Garlic Ballads’ & ‘Sandalwood Death’ by Mo Yan ‘Boyhood’, ‘Youth’, ‘Summertime’, ‘Disgrace’, ‘Life & times of Michael K’ by J M Coetzee Jo Nesbo, Stieg Larsson, Karan Fossum, Arnaldur Indridason, Hakan Nesser, Leila Slimani, Andrea Camilleri

24 August 2020   COVID-19 Updates - Mutations & Lower Fatality 主題:冠狀病毒的突變和較低的死亡率   City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language.   In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community.  This episode is about “COVID-19 Safety Guidelines”.   Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health PathologyDirector Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Domestic violence is not limited to hitting or bodily harm, it also includes verbal and psychological abuse, physical control, and sexual assault.  Bullying and attempting to control a partner are also different types of domestic violence that the police do not tolerate in dealing with. Domestic violence includes physical, verbal or psychological harm from one family member to another, and also includes ill-treatment of the elderly and children.   لا يقتصر العنف الأسري على  الضرب أو الأذية الجسدية فهو يشمل أيضاً الاعتداء اللفظي والنفسي والتحكم المادي والاعتداء الجنسي. ممارسات التنمر ومحاولة السيطرة على الشريك تعتبر أيضاً أنواعاً مختلفة من العنف الأسري الذي لا تتساهل الشرطة في التعامل معه. يشمل العنف الأسري أذية أحد أفراد العائلة لفرد آخر جسدياً أو لفظياً او نفسياً ويشمل ايضاً سوء معاملة كبار السن والأطفال. Additional information:   There is no excuse for pardon, you are not the reason. The helpline for victims of domestic violence provides 24-hour counseling, and the workers in this service refer victims to emergency services such as housing and material support. This number is 1800 656 463 There are other services available for victims of domestic violence around the clock, including the phone service 1800respect or 1800 737 732. For translation services, you can call 131450 For men who are victims of domestic violence, you can call Men’s Line Australia on 1300789978.   لا يوجد أي مبرر للعف أنت لست السبب. يقدم خط مساعدة ضحايا العنف الاسري الأستشارة على مدار 24 ساعة ويقوم العاملون في هذه الخدمة بتحويل الضحايا للخدمات الطارئة كالسكن والدعم المادي. هذا الرقم هو 1800656463 هناك خدمات أخرى متوفرة لضحايا العنف الأسري على مدار الساعة منها خدمة الهاتف 1800respect أو 1800737732. لخدمات الترجمة بامكانكم الاتصال على الرقم 131450 أمّا للرجال الذين يقعون ضحية العنف الأسري فبامكانكم الاتصال بخدمة Men’s Line Australia على الرقم 1300789978   Speaker - Heba Kassoua Multicultural community Liaison officer, Cumberland Police Area Command

17 August 2020   COVID-19 Updates - Problems & Facemasks - Cantonese 主題:冠狀病毒的新問題及配戴口罩的重要   Mystery coronavirus outbreak was linked to a cold storage facility in Auckland, masks beneficial to combat community transmission and no evidence that immunity of coronavirus from people who have recovered from covid-19. 內容：奧克蘭的冷藏設施與冠狀病毒的神秘爆發; 口罩有益於對抗社區傳播 及 沒有證據表明冠狀病毒對從covid-19中康復的人具有絕對的免疫力。   City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language.   In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community.  This episode is about “COVID-19 Safety Guidelines”.   Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health PathologyDirector Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Celebrating Science Week 2020 City of Parramatta Libraries will be celebrating National Science Week by providing a diverse range of digital content, catering to all ages and interests that people can experience from home online. The Library has teamed up with scientists, Western Sydney University, an Australian novelist and our library staff. For further information regarding our Science Week program go to cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/national-science-week In this podcast one of our Library's 'science enthusiasts' Yan, talks about our programs and some of the interesting science related books she has been reading. Titles discussed in this podcast includes: The telomere effect : a revolutionary approach to living younger, healthier, longer by Elizabeth Blackburn Lifespan : the revolutionary science of why we age - and why we don't have to by David A. Sinclair A woman looking at men looking at women : essays on art, sex, and the mind by Siri Hustvedt

10 August 2020   Understanding Covid-19 Medical Information for People with Chronic Diseases  有關閱讀新冠狀病毒的醫學信息 和 對慢性病患者的建議   City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language.   In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community.  This episode is about “COVID-19 Safety Guidelines”.   Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health PathologyDirector Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Health Awareness Talk   Egg-based Dietary Health - 2 Egg-based recipes & Herbs 鸡蛋食疗 (普通话)   Egg-based dietary for health. Learn about egg-based recipes & herbs.   Presented by Dr Rose S Chen 陈曙仪中医师 Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Health Awareness Talk   Egg-based Dietary Health - 2 Egg-based recipes & Herbs 雞蛋食療 (廣東話)   Egg-based dietary for health. Learn about egg-based recipes & herbs.   Presented by Dr Rose S Chen 陳曙儀中醫師   Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Health Awareness Talk   Egg-based Dietary Health - 1 Egg Types & Labels 鸡蛋为主的健康饮食 (普通话) 了解鸡蛋类型和标签 (普通话)   Egg-based dietary for health. Learn about egg types and labels.   Presented by Dr Rose S Chen 陈曙仪中医师   Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Health Awareness Talk   Egg-based Dietary Health - 1 Egg Types & Labels 了解雞蛋類型和標籤 (廣東話)   Egg-based dietary for health. Learn about egg types and labels.   Presented by Dr Rose S Chen 陳曙儀中醫師   Chinese Medicine Practitioner

COVID-19 Safety Guidelines 有關澳洲政府對維多利亞州新冠病毒感染最新的安全指引及措施，以及探討印度貧民窟為何對新冠病毒的死亡率較低。   3 August 2020   The latest safety guidelines and measures of the Australian Government against the COVID-19 inflection in Victoria, and exploring why India’s slums have a lower mortality rate from the COVID-19.   City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language.   In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community.  This episode is about “COVID-19 Safety Guidelines”.   Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health PathologyDirector Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Health Awareness Talk   Cough Symptoms, Dietary Treatment and Prevention 咳嗽症狀，類型，飲食治療和預防 (普通話)     City of Parramatta Libraries in partnership with the Australian Chinese Medical Association is please to present a series of digital talks, to promote a better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. Presented by Dr Rose S Chen 陳曙儀中醫師   Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Health Awareness Talk   Cough Symptoms, Dietary Treatment and Prevention 咳嗽症狀，類型，飲食治療和預防 (廣東話)   City of Parramatta Libraries in partnership with the Australian Chinese Medical Association is please to present a series of digital talks, to promote a better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. Presented by Dr Rose S Chen 陳曙儀中醫師 Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Winter Home Fire Safety 2   Mandarin   Safe use of electronic appliances including, portable outdoor gas heaters, smoke alarms, microwaves, ovens, power boards and especially halogen down lights.    Presented by Fiona Zhou 周燕芳   Multicultural Community Liaison Officer 多元文化社區聯絡員 NSW Police Force

Winter Home Safety 2    冬季家居防火安全 2 - 電器安全使用包括: 戶外燃氣加熱器、微波爐、烤箱、電源板、尤其是鹵素筒燈。(廣東話)   Cantonese  廣東話   Safe use of electronic appliances including, portable outdoor gas heaters, smoke alarms, microwaves, ovens, power boards and especially halogen down lights.    Presented by Corinda Lee 李小蘭     Multicultural Community Liaison Officer 多元文化社區聯絡員 NSW Police Force

COVID 19 The Second Wave 有關澳洲第二波新冠病毒的傳播   27 July 2020   City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language.   In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community.  This episode is about “COVID The Second Wave”.   Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health PathologyDirector Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Winter Fire Safety in the Home 1 - Kitchen Safety 家居防火安全  - 注意安全使用廚房炊具 (普通話)   In partnership with NSW Police   Community Alert – According to statistics, a large amount of fires start in the kitchen! Mostly caused by people not paying attention while cooking and using appliances. It is important for people to be mindful about fire safety particularly during winter.   根據火災報告的統計，超過50％的事故始於廚房, 由於人們不注意炊具的使用的, 以致火災發生。尤其在冬季, 注意家居防火安全尤為重要。   Speaker: Fiona Zhou  周燕芳 Multicultural Community Liaison Officer  多元文化社區聯絡主任

Winter Fire Safety in the Home 1 - Kitchen Safety 家居防火安全  - 注意安全使用廚房炊具 (廣東話)   In partnership with NSW Police   Community Alert – According to statistics, a large amount of fires start in the kitchen! Mostly caused by people not paying attention while cooking and using appliances. It is important for people to be mindful about fire safety particularly during winter.   根據火災報告的統計，超過50％的事故始於廚房, 由於人們不注意炊具的使用的, 以致火災發生。尤其在冬季, 注意家居防火安全尤為重要。   Clorinda Lee    李小蘭  Multicultural Community Liaison Officer  多元文化社區聯絡員

COVID-19 Community Transmission 新冠病毒病社區傳播的意識   Diabetes Awareness (National Diabetes Week  2020) 有關糖尿病（2020年全國糖尿病週)   20 July 2020   City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language. In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. This episode is about “Post Covid-19 Lockdown health awareness”. Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health PathologyDirector Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Understanding the Progress of Pathological Research, COVID-19 認識新冠病毒病理硏究的進展 Update for week beginning 13 July 2020 City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language. In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. This episode is about “Post Covid-19 Lockdown health awareness”. Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health Pathology Director Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Cognitive Situation of Corona Virus Mutation 認知新冠病毒變種的情況 City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language. In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. This episode is about “Post Covid-19 Lockdown health awareness”. Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health Pathology Director Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

The good and bad news, post COVID-19. City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language. In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. This episode is about “Post Covid-19 Lockdown health awareness”. Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health Pathology Director Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Fraudsters have targeted many international students demanding money! Clorinda Lee from NSW Police Force is warning the Chinese community to be wary of these scams extorting money. For more information about scam, please visit www.police.nsw.gov.au and www.scamwatch.gov.au    针对中国社区尤其是国际学生的骗局的社区警报。2020年3月至2020年4月，TransferWise识别出的诈骗账户，涉及27名受害者，欺诈的金額超过64万元。大多数受害者是中国留学生。 要瞭解以上更多資訊 , 請參考 新南威尔士州警察綱站和詐騙綱站www.police.nsw.gov.au 和 www.scamwatch.gov.au Speaker: Clorinda Lee    李小蘭 Multicultural Community Liaison Officer  多元文化社区联络员

Community Alert! Fraudsters have targeted many international students demanding money.  Corinda Lee from NSW Police is warning the Chinese community to be wary of these scams extorting money. More information about scam, please visit www.police.nsw.gov.au and www.scamwatch.gov.au    針對中國社區尤其是國際學生的騙局的社區警報。2020年3月至2020年4月，TransferWise識別出的詐騙騙局，涉及27名受害者，欺詐的金額超過64百萬。大多數受害者是中國留學生。要了解更多更多資訊，請參考 新南威爾士州警察綱站和詐騙綱站www.police.nsw.gov.au 和 www.scamwatch.gov.au Speaker: Clorinda Lee    李小蘭 Multicultural Community Liaison Officer  多元文化社區聯絡員。

City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language. In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. This episode is about “Post Covid-19 Lockdown health awareness”. Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health Pathology Director Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language. In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. This episode will talk about “Post Covid-19 Lockdown health awareness”. Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health Pathology Director Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

City of Parramatta Libraries Health Awareness Talks in Cantonese Language. In partnership with Australian Chinese Medical Association. Health talks to promote better understanding and awareness of common health issues and related services in the Chinese Australian community. This episode will talk about “Post Covid-19 Lockdown health awareness”. Presented by Dr Stephen Li.  Chemical Pathologist | Clinical Lipidologist | Chartered Manager Director Core Pathology & Clinical Chemistry, Pathology West, NSW Health Pathology Director Westmead Hospital Lipid Clinic Chair, Community Health, ACMA Honorary President and Foundation Fellow, ACMA

Support by Australian Taxation Office  澳大利亞稅務局 (ATO)   Speaker: Ada  Ly  Community Culture Education & Assistance Individuals and Intermediaries Australian Taxation Office   Topic: Overview about “Jobkeeper payment, COVID-19 early release of super and Cash flow boost” from ATO in Cantonese and Mandarin 有關由澳大利亞稅務局發放的 “保工津貼、提前領取退休金 及 加強現金流” 概要 ( 廣東話 及 普通话)   More information about “JobKeeper payment, COVID-19 early release of super and Cash flow boost” please visit www.ato.gov.au/COVID-19 You can phone us between 8am and 8pm Monday-Friday and 10am-4pm (AEST) Saturday: 1800 806 218 for “JobKeeper payment and COVID-19 early release of super 保工津貼及提前領取退休金” 13 28 66 for “Cash flow boost  ” If your English does not speak very well, please first call 13 14 50 interpreter service and ask them to assist your call. 要瞭解以上更多資訊 , 請參考 澳大利亞稅務局綱站www.ato.gov.au/COVID-19 。 或星期一至五8am and 8pm, 星期六10am-4pm 致電澳大利亞稅務局查詢。更何致電13 14 50 要求傳譯。

Support by Australian Taxation Office  澳大利亞稅務局 (ATO)   Speaker: Ada  Ly  Community Culture Education & Assistance Individuals and Intermediaries Australian Taxation Office   Topic: Overview about “Jobkeeper payment, COVID-19 early release of super and Cash flow boost” from ATO in Cantonese and Mandarin 有關由澳大利亞稅務局發放的 “保工津貼、提前領取退休金 及 加強現金流” 概要 ( 廣東話 及 普通话)   More information about “JobKeeper payment, COVID-19 early release of super and Cash flow boost” please visit www.ato.gov.au/COVID-19 You can phone us between 8am and 8pm Monday-Friday and 10am-4pm (AEST) Saturday: 1800 806 218 for “JobKeeper payment and COVID-19 early release of super 保工津貼及提前領取退休金” 13 28 66 for “Cash flow boost  ” If your English does not speak very well, please first call 13 14 50 interpreter service and ask them to assist your call. 要瞭解以上更多資訊 , 請參考 澳大利亞稅務局綱站www.ato.gov.au/COVID-19 。 或星期一至五8am and 8pm, 星期六10am-4pm 致電澳大利亞稅務局查詢。更何致電13 14 50 要求傳譯。

Fiction that can be read in one sitting, short stories are a great way book lovers can explore a wide range of narrative content. In this episode, Nisa and Sandra explore short stories that span genres such as sci-fi and crime, original languages such as Japanese and Chinese and settings as diverse as the fictional city of Maardam and the outer reaches of the galaxy. Books discussed include: Grand Union / Zadie Smith. Hamish Hamilton, Oct 2019 Picnic in the storm / Yukiko Motoya (translated by Asa Yoneda), Oct 2018 Intrigo / Håkan Nesser. Pan Macmillan, Oct 2019 Broken stars / Ken Liu (edited and translated). Head of Zeus, Feb 2019.

The business of making people laugh dates back far into antiquity. Kitty Flanagan excelled at it on The Project, David Mitchell does a fine job through his comic rants, Celeste Barber gives joy to many on Instagram and David Ayoade has kept it going through the IT Crowd and beyond. Join Katherine, Nisa and Sandra for an upbeat chat about books recently written by all four. Books Discussed: Dishonestly is the second best policy: and other rules to live by / David Mitchell. Guardian Faber Publishing, Nov 2019. Ayoade on top / Richard Ayoade by Richard Ayoade. Faber & Faber, October 2019.  Challenge accepted: 253 steps to becoming an anti-it girl by Celeste Barber. Harper Collins, September 2018. Kitty Flanagan’s 488 rules for life: the thankless art of being correct by Kitty Flanagan. Allen & Unwin, October 2019.

Historical Fiction as a genre is fascinating for the window it provides to the past, to characters and events both real and imagined, to lives in a time so different to our own. Nisa & Antonia discuss two books set around four hundred years apart.   The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel (eAudioBook, eBook, print edition). The Pearl Thief by Fiona McIntosh (eAudioBook, eBook, print edition).

Find ways to relax, to meditate, to pursue balance, to consider gratitude, to engage in kindness, to strive for positivity.... all of these are important considerations for those interested in creating a sense of wellbeing for themselves and those around them. Join Nisa & Antonia as they talk about some books that explore this and more! The books discussed in this episode of Parra Pods include: In Search of Happiness: following mindful paths to fulfillment by Mike Annesley. Worth Press, October 2018. Smart Girls Screw Up Too: the no-nonsense guide to creating the life you want by Bella Zanesco. John Wiley & Son, January 2018.  Unwind Your Mind: the life changing power of ASMR by Emma WhispersRed. Ebury Publishing, September 2019.

Named after a giant in the Australian literary landscape, The Stella Prize celebrates both fiction and non-fiction writing by Australian female writers. Join Nisa and Sandra as they celebrate the prize’s eighth year. Books discussed include: The weekend / Charlotte Wood. Allen & Unwin, Oct 2019 Here until August: stories / Josephine Rowe. Black Inc, Sep 2019 See what you made me do / Jess Hill. Black Inc, Jun 2019 There was still love / Favel Parrett  Also mentioned:  The yield / Tara June Winch. Penguin, July 2019 Diving into glass: a memoir / Caro Llewellyn. Penguin, Mar 2019

Episode 32: From all the lands on earth Belonging, respect and inclusiveness are core messages of Harmony Week - a time that highlights multicultural Australia, celebrating the fact that while there are so many of us with vastly different stories, there is so much more that brings us together. Join Katherine, Nisa and Antonia as they discuss books they have recently read: Brave not perfect / Reshma Saujani. Harper Collins, Feb 2019 New kings of the world: dispatches from Bollywood, Dizi and K-pop / Fatima Bhutto. Columbia Global Reports, Oct 2019 Born a crime / Trevor Noah. Spiegel & Grau, Nov 2016 Arab of the future: a childhood in the Middle East: 1984-1992 / Riad Sattouf. Metropolitan Books, Nov 2019

Bias and inequality are concepts that generate a great deal of debate. While they may often be popularly associated with one gender having power over another or one colour of skin being afforded more privileges, there is now an emerging body of literature on some of the more complex arguments to come out of the struggle e.g. what happens when race and gender collide, who gets to decide the ‘appropriate’ way to fight bias and how to break the pattern of inequality that is generational. This International Women’s Day Katherine, Nisa and Antonia look at some books from perspectives that haven’t always been heard. Books discussed include: A woman is no man / Etaf Rum. Harper Collins, Mar 2019 The seven necessary sins for women and girls / Mona Eltahawy. Hardie Grant, Oct 2019 White tears, brown scars / Ruby Hamad. Melbourne University Press, Sep 2019

Episode 30 - What is a Romance Novel? Stories of love - romantic love - have been entertaining people for thousands of years. Shared through the written medium, stories within the romance genre have been one of the biggest publishing phenomena of the last century. Join Katherine and Nisa as they discuss this vast and unwieldy category of books, home to a variety of sub-genres ranging from paranormal romance, fantasy romance and historical romance to contemporary romance,  (possibly) chick lit, erotic romance and religious/Christian romance novels.  Books discussed include:   Pride and Prejudice / Jane Austen. T. Egerton, 1813   Love in the time of cholera / Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Alfred A Knopf, 1988 [originally publisher in Spanish in 1985]   Pride, prejudice and other flavours / Sonali Dev. Harper Collins, May 2019   Outlander / Diana Gabaldon. Delacorte Books, 1991.

Episode 29 - Chatting with Rachel Givney We have a special new episode of Parra Pods for you to listen to: 'Chatting with Rachel Givney'. Rachel is the debut author of Jane in Love, a modern day romance featuring a time travelling Jane Austen. The story poses the question - if Jane Austen had to choose between the heart and the pen, what would she do? We were lucky enough to receive an advance copy and engaged in good natured fights over who got to read it and record the podcast. End result; Katherine & Suzanne won and were lucky enough to enjoy a morning chat with Rachel!   We hope you enjoy the podcast and make sure you reserve your copy of 'Jane in Love'.   If you are interested in reading an extract of 'Jane in Love' then check out this post by Better Reading.   https://www.betterreading.com.au/review/extract/jane-austen-in-modern-england-read-an-extract-from-rachel-givneys-jane-in-love/?fbclid=IwAR2xlp_RJzOCf4f2_KUtmLiG76tMJud282XLNIhtAiKNFNLwPV6OLdNY7Xs

Episode 28: Non-fiction Australian Reads for Summer This summer has been a particularly challenging one for the Australian landscape and with Australia Day upon us, there are a number of great books that demonstrate just how vast this land is, how diverse and rich is its history. Join Katherine and Nisa for the third and final episode of the ‘Summer’ series of podcasts. Books mentioned in this episode include: Buckley’s chance: the incredible true story of William Buckley and how he conquered a new world / Garry Linnell. Penguin Random House, October 2019. Dark Emu: Aboriginal Australia and the birth of agriculture / Bruce Pascoe. Magabala Books, June 2018 [earlier published as Dark Emu:  Black Seeds: Agriculture or accident in 2014] Young Dark Emu: a truer history / Bruce Pascoe. Magabala Books, June 2019 Tracks / Robyn Davidson. Bloomsbury, November 2019. Macquarie Atlas of Indigenous Australia / Bill Arthur and Frances Morphy. ANU, ABS and Macquarie Dictionary, August 2019.

Episode 27 - Fiction Reads for Summer Join Katherine and Nisa for the second of our ‘Summer’ episodes. It has been a great year for fiction lovers, but here are a few of the  titles that resonated with Katherine and Nisa. 'Damascus' by Christos Tsiolkas an historical novel, but with a take on St Paul of the early Christian Church like no other. Visceral, transformative, brutal & beautiful. To change the pace totally, we review Sally Rooney’s debut novel,  'Conversations with Friends' and her second novel, and twitter sensation, 'Normal People'. She brings her signature style, spare prose and insightful psychological acuity to  the exploration of the lives and loves of that  most intriguing of generations, the millennials. Finally Ian Mc Ewan’s 'Machines like Me'?, this is speculative fiction of the top order,  its themes range from artificial intelligence, what constitutes consciousness and the formal demands of the haiku poem. Darkly humorous, its most compelling theme is “moral choice” Fiction titles discussed include: Damascus by Christos Tsiolkas, Allen & Unwin 2019. Machines Like Me by Ian McEwan, Jonathan Cape/Vintage Publishing 2019. Normal People by Sally Rooney, Faber and Faber 2018. Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney, Faber and Faber 2017.

With multiple streaming services and digital downloads more ubiquitous than ever, discovering new television series, movies and documentaries has never been easier. Beamafilm - City of Parramatta Libraries - Members - Stream 100's of great movies for free! Join Katherine and Nisa for the first of our ‘Summer’ episodes. DVDs discussed include:   Booksmart / directed by Olivia Wilde [movie]    Succession / Created by Jessie Armstrong [TV series]   Ophelia / directed by Claire McCarthy [movie]   The ABC Murders / directed by Alex Gabassi. [short TV series]   Ordeal by Innocence / directed by Sandra Goldbacher [short TV series]   The Australian Dream / directed by Daniel Gordman. [documentary]   Clinton Affair / produced by Alex Gibney [documentary]

In 2018, two publications shared the Putlitzer Prize for Public Service: The New York Times, for reporting led by Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, and The New Yorker, for reporting by Ronan Farrow. In episode 24, Katherine and Nisa chat about the books based on their respective reports. They are: She Said: Breaking the Sexual Harassment Story That Helped Ignite a Movement / Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey. Bloomsbury, September 2019. Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators / Ronan Farrow. Fleet (Little Brown), October 2019.

Episode 24 - Identity Mass human migration in modern history has made identity such an interesting and complex thing, at least we think so! In this episode join Katherine and Nisa as they discuss two Australian books that focus on 'Identity', with a sideways dip into the ‘On’ series of books published by Melbourne University Press. Some of the books discussed include: On Identity by Stan Grant, Melbourne University Press, May 2019. Arab, Australian, Other: Stories on Race and Identity - Randa Abdel-Fattah and Sarah Saleh (eds), Picador, May 2019. On Freedom by Tory Shepherd, Melbourne University Press, June 2019. On Artists by Ashleigh Wilson, Melbourne University Press, May 2019.

In this Episode 23, Katherine and Nisa discuss two biographies set on opposite sides of the globe. One, an actress of global fame, with nearly four decades of work behind her; another, a social media star who dabbled in acting and was the talk of her country for over four years. Both were pioneers and paid a heavy price for fame.   Some of the books discussed in this episode include: Inside Out: a memoir by Demi Moore, Harper Collins, September 2019. A Woman Like Her: the short life of Qandeel Baloch by Sanam Maher, Bloomsbury, July 2019.

In Episode 22 of Parra Pods, Katherine & Nisa discuss some of the great books that had made it on to the 2019 shortlist for the Booker Prize. Join them as they discuss the books they liked, the books they loved and some they had mixed feelings about…   Books discussed in this episode include: An Orchestra of Minorities by Obioma Chigozie Girl, Woman, Other by Evaristo Bernardine Quichotte by Salman Rushdie 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak Ducks, newburyport by Lucy Ellmann The Testaments by Margaret Atwood

In Episode 21 of Parra Pods, regular hosts Katherine & Nisa continue their chat with Mohan Dhall our go to person for practical study advice! Students don’t panic! Mohan Dhall Educator and CEO of the Australian Tutoring Association, tells you where to find the best HSC resources for all your subjects and how to study effectively. HAPPY LISTENING! Katherine & Nisa

Episode 20 of Parra Pods HSC Hacks. HSC is coming up fast! Students and parents check out these tips and tricks to not just survive, but actually flourish during the HSC season. All this delivered by the ultimate HSC guru Mohan Dhall, Text book author, CEO of Tutoring Australia and Leader of Potentia Tutoring. To check out some of the amazing resources City of Parramatta Libraries has for HSC Students, click HERE. We also have some helpful programs planned in October to support our hardworking students PROGRAMS.   HAPPY LISTENING! Katherine & Nisa

In this episode of Parra Pods Katherine & Nisa discuss books about the relationship between humans and technology in this IT-saturated world. Join them while they talk about the future of AI, the impact of social media, the relationship between our private selves and our digital avatars and eroding trust in traditional institutions.   Some of the books discussed in this podcast include:   Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence by Max Tegmark. Penguin Random House, 2017.   Net loss: the inner life in the digital age by Sebastian Smee. Quarterly Essay No. 72, 2018   Who can you trust? How technology brought us together and why it might drive us apart by Rachel Botsman. Public Affairs, 2017

First awarded in 1957, this year marks the 62nd year of the Miles Franklin Literary Award.   Join Katherine & Nisa as they discuss books that have made it on to the 2019 shortlist. The books span genres such as magic realism, autobiography, mystery and dystopia. Some themes found in the novels include: family, the environment, art, masculinity, relationships, race and racism – all against a range of Australian backdrops.   Some of the books discussed in Episode 18 of Parra Pods include:   The Lebs / Michael Mohammed Ahmad. Hatchette, 2018   A stolen season / Rodney Hall. Picador, 2018   The death of Noah Glass / Gail Jones. Text Publishing, 2018   Too much lip / Melissa Lucashenko. University of Queensland Press, 2018   Other books in the Shortlist include:   A sand archive / Gregory Day. Picador, 2018   Dyschronia / Jennifer Mills. Picador, 2018     Do you feel like exploring some of the AMAZING past winners of the Miles Franklin Award? Or maybe you would like to learn more about the history of the award, check out the Miles Franklin Award website.   Happy Listening!   Katherine & Nisa

In this episode of Parra Pods Katherine & Nisa discuss some of the amazing Young Adult fiction they have read over the last couple of weeks. Reading Youth Adult fiction in all its  diversity is great way to understand the issues facing the up and coming generation.  The books that we review in this episode discuss diverse themes  such as “Black lives matter”, growing up Muslim in Australia, body issues and being young and LGBTQ identified. What these wonderful books have in common is that they are all thought provoking, funny at times, often inspiring and always entertaining. I urge you to grab a YA book now and enjoy!   Some of the books discussed in this podcast include:   The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, 2017.   How (Not) to Ask a Boy to the Prom by S.J. Goslee, 2019.   You Must Be Layla by Yassmin Abel-Magied, 2019.   There's Something About Sweetie by Sandhya Menon, 2019.   Looking for some more recommendations why not check out our blog post on YA picks of 2020 & some old favourites!

Episode 16 - Ageing Well - the pleasures and the pitfalls  Is there even such a thing as ageing well? Apparently so, and the books that we discuss in this podcast make that abundantly clear. While these books are entertaining and light-hearted they also make some salient points about this stage of life’s journey.   Some of the books discussed in this podcast include:   The single ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village by Joanna Nell   Fridays with my folks by Amal Awad   Women of a certain age edited by Jodie Moffat, Maria Scoda, and Susan Laura Sullivan

In this episode of Parra Pods Katherine & Nisa asked themselves why do some memoirs resonate so much with people? Michelle Obam's 'Becoming was City of Parramatta Libraries most borrowed non-fiction title so far in 2019. Her spouse Barak Obama was the President of the United States for eight years, yet it is she who has garnered both popular and critical acclaim for this "tell it like it is" memoir. Sally Fields is a Hollywood legend and, an Oscar recipient, here is her memoir about growing up in a dysfunctional family, overcoming the limitations of  her early career playing the “Flying Nun” & “Gidget”.  Finally forging a career that has afforded her longevity as an actress, but more importantly finding peace with the dark secret that cast a shadow over her life.   Some of the books discussed in this podcast include: Becoming by Michelle Obama. London, Viking, 2018 In Pieces by Sally Fields London, Simon & Schuster, 2018

Parra Pods - Episode 13 Uplit On this episode of Parra Pods Katerine, Nisa & Yi discuss 'Uplifting Literature'.   You might be asking yourself what is 'Up Lit' well it is described as books with an emphasis on empathy, books that are uplifting and life-affirming. In this episode of Parra Pods we review four titles that fit this popular newish genre. If you are tired of reading grim True Crime and Scandi Noir, try some of these titles on for size. Some of the books mentioned in this Podcast include: Your Second Life Begins When You Realize You Only Have One - Raphaelle Giordano Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine - Gail Honeyman The Happiness Project or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean my Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun - Gretchen Rubin My Squirrel Days - Ellie Kemper

Join Katherine & Nisa as they discuss some of the amazing writers appearing at this years Sydney Writers' Festival - Today we discuss four books all of which are the works of vibrant and diverse young voices. These works explore issues such as “black lives matter”, the experience of an elite athlete and addiction, the transgender experience set within re-imagined historical fiction, and the unique perspective of a member of a famous and tragic political family.   Some of the books mentioned in this Podcast include: Godspeed: A Memoir by Casey Legler Friday Black by Nana Kwame Adjei- Brenyah Confessions of the Fox by Jordy Rosenberg The Runaways by Fatima Bhutto

Katherine, Nisa & Yi discuss some recent releases all about 'Women'.  We wanted to mark International Women’s Day: More Powerful Together (2019’s motto) in this Podcast by reviewing three women focused titles. What follows was a robust female focused discussion that sheds light on the current state of women’s lives in the world today and the progress we still need to make to achieve equality .   Some of the books mentioned in this Podcast include: Germaine: the Life of Germaine Greer by Elizabeth Kleinhenz, 2018 Betraying Big Brother: Feminist Awakening in China by Leta Hong Fincher, 2018 The Women's Atlas  by Joni Seager, 2018

Katherine, Nisa & Yi discuss, why coffee so popular today and was it always so?  “Coffee Lovers of the World Unite” we say… This Podcast discusses three recent books that explain the origin of coffee cultivation, the history and idea’s that abound about coffee, where to find the best cup of coffee in the world and why we love it! Some of the books mentioned in this podcast include: The Monk of Mokhta by Dave Eggers The Devil’s Cup by Stewart Lee Allen World Coffee Tour – Lonely Planet Publication

Episode 9 Australia Today Katherine & Nisa review three recent books about Australia. A memoir/social commentary and short stories that seek to define us as a Nation. An irreverent look at our strengths and foibles. “The Land Before Avocado” by Richard Glover;  Australia Day by Melanie Cheng; My Country: Stories, Essays & Speeches Some of the books mentioned in this podcast include: The Land Before Avocado - Richard Glover Australia Day - Melanie Cheng My Country Stories, essays & speeches - David Marr

Episode 8  Journalism Katherine, Nisa and Yi discuss “Journalists who have made a difference”, including Peter Greste, Mike Carlton and Seymour Hersh: three men of integrity, with different perspectives on reporting the news.  On Air by Mike Carlton, The First Casualty by Peter Grester and Reporter by Seymour Hersh   Some of the books mentioned in this podcast include: On Air - Mike Carlton The First Casualty: A Memoir From the Front Lines of the Global War on Journalism - Peter Greste Reporter - Seymour M. Hersh

Parenting: Baby Sleep: how to encourage good sleeping habit in your baby and child:Dr Nicole Weeks, Practical Research Parenting – Becoming a parent is a wonderful feeling but many parents struggle to find a routine that works for them and their baby/child. You can find more of Nicole’s research on child sleep at www.practicalresearchparenting.com, and access those free resources by checking on Free Downloads & Resources.   Books mentioned in this podcast: “Becoming Mum” by Koa Whittingham; “The sensible sleep solution: a guide to your baby’s first year” by Sarah Blunden; “Dream Baby Guide” by Sheyne Rowley   Host: Katherine Guest: Dr Nicole Weeks

Liz Wheeler and Poppi are our guests: Liz, has a degenerative eye condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa that is slowly taking her sight. Always a reader, this condition took away her high profile career, and changed her relationship with books & stories.  Luckily, Vision Australia helped Liz discover Audio books and Guide Dogs sourced Poppi, her guide dog and she has fallen in love with both. Liz in now studying for a Counselling degree. This is the story of Liz’s rediscovery of the joys of reading and acquiring knowledge. Host: Katherine Guests: Liz Wheeler & Poppi the Guide Dog.

Travel: Your journey starts here!   This Podcast explores the notions of the Philosophy of travel, we explore the sacred traditions of India, find self-realization on the Pacific Crest Trail, and contemplate embarking on Epic Hikes of the World, and finally take a look at a landmark travel guide to indigenous Australia.  The books discussed are: “The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton,   “Wild: from lost to found on the Pacific Crest Trail”, by Cheryl Strayed:” Nine Lives: In search of the sacred in Modern India”, by William Dalrample:  “Epic Hikes of the World” a Lonely Planet Guide: “Welcome to Country: A travel guide to Indigenous Australia” by Marcia Langton.

Your regular Parra Pods host, Katherine. Talks to Parramatta's 2015 Young Citizen of the Year Meihua Gong about the books that made her. Titles mentioned in the Pod Cast include: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder by Ariana Huffington The Museum of Words: A Memoir of Language, Writing, and Mortality by Georgia Blain Without You There is No Us : My Secret Life Teaching the Sons of North Korea's Elite by Suki Kim

Grace De Morgan author of 'Everything Happens for a Riesling: Your Not So Fancy-Pants Guide to Wine, visited City of Parramatta Library for our first wine & cheeze author talk.

“Resilience” – “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” this old saying speaks to the quality of resilience. Dr Nicole Weeks, a research psychologist at Macquarie University is our guest today. Nicole is working with Resilience Research and training systems, founded by Dr Monique Crane at Macquarie, you can find out more about this at occupationalresilience.com.au - The material presented in this Podcast is for general information only.  Any opinions expressed in the Podcast are those of the guest speaker and do not necessarily represent the views of City of Parramatta Council.  City of Parramatta Council is not responsible for any injury, loss or damage which you may directly or indirectly suffer in connection with the Podcast.

Memoirs and difficult father daughter relationships.