Thomas Keneally author page

Thomas Keneally biography

Thomas Keneally is an Australian author and novelist, known for his works of historical fiction. He was born in Sydney, Australia, and attended St Patrick’s College, Strathfield, before studying at the University of Sydney. Keneally initially trained for the Catholic priesthood but left before ordination and later worked as a teacher and lecturer.

Keneally published his first novel, The Place at Whitton, in 1964. Over the following decades, he established a reputation for writing novels that explore historical and political themes, often focusing on the experiences of individuals during times of conflict. His works frequently draw on real events and figures, blending meticulous research with narrative storytelling.

Among his most notable books is Schindler’s Ark, published in 1982. The novel is based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved the lives of more than a thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust. Schindler’s Ark won the Booker Prize in 1982 and was later adapted into the film Schindler’s List.

Keneally has written numerous other novels, including Bring Larks and Heroes (1967), The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith (1972), and Gossip from the Forest (1975). His work also includes non-fiction, plays, and memoirs. Keneally has received several literary awards and honours throughout his career, and his books have been published internationally.

In 1982, Thomas Keneally was awarded the Booker Prize for Schindler’s Ark.