The Children's Bach

Set in early-1980s Melbourne, the story explores the lives of Dexter and Athena Fox, a couple navigating the challenges of family life, including their son's disability. Dexter's traditional views clash with the allure of a bohemian world introduced by an old friend, prompting Athena to seek freedom beyond her domestic role. As she immerses herself in this new lifestyle, the family's stability begins to unravel, raising questions about commitment and the price of liberation. The narrative is enriched by a subtle musicality, marking it as a significant work in Garner's oeuvre.