Recognition for Imagination in an Age of Crisis

Jason Goroncy and Rod Pattenden are delighted and honoured that their edited book, Imagination in an Age of Crisis: Soundings from the Arts and Theology, has been shortlisted for the 2023 Australian Christian Book of the Year Award. One of ten shortlisted volumes chosen from over 100 published works, this recognition attests to the importance of this innovative collection of essays and reflections by artists, poets, and academics.

The book brings together a creative conversation about the role of the imagination through the work of creatives and academics as they reflect on the many ways in which the arts and theology provide resources for negotiating change and generating hope during a time of rapid cultural change and an uncertain future. It includes significant Australian perspectives that are set within a wide international context and conversation.

The book has received widespread recognition by a number of reviewers. For example, Angela McCarthy, Adjunct Senior Lecturer at the University of Notre Dame, writes:

This collection of writings ranges in depth and focus to bring a richness of cultural awareness and imaginative power that indeed brings hope and value to our culture through the interactions and power of artists.

And Catherine Lambert describes the book as:

A montage of evocative poetry, poignant artworks, insightful essays and personal reflections. Each piece is an invitation to look more deeply, linger a little longer and savour each offering. This is not a book to devour, but invites a more reflective contemplative reading. … Through the generous sharing of the contributors, the reader is invited to engage both their head and their heart in responding to this age of crisis. … [A]n invaluable gift to the conversation between arts and theology.

This year’s Australian Christian Book of the Year will be announced in a ceremony in Melbourne on 31 August.

A video introduction and review of the book, plus details on how to obtain a 40% discount via the publisher’s website, is available here. Copies of the book are also available from wherever decent books are sold.