Read My Shorts : A Collection of Short Fiction.

Image: The new collection of short fiction from Australian author and story teller - Pete Mitchell (Source: Pete Mitchell)

Pete Mitchell author, Australian short stories, short fiction collection, book launch, Bunbury, independent author

 A New Collection of Short Fiction

I’m thrilled to announce the release of my latest book, Read My Shorts: A Collection of Short Fiction.

Spanning themes of love and loss, contentment and discontent, resilience and regret, these stories explore the human experience in all its contradictions. From quiet suburban dramas to surreal twists of fate, Read My Shorts offers glimpses into lives caught at moments of change, revelation, or absurdity.

Each story stands alone, yet together they form a mosaic of voices and moods—by turns reflective, unsettling, and tender.

I invite you to dip in anywhere, linger and let the the words take hold, and perhaps recognise something of your own life in the stories.

Image: The stunning, yet whimsical cover of 'Read My Shorts' (Source: Pete Mitchell)

Early Five-Star Praise for 'Read MY Shorts'

"Just what I needed! ...Read My Shorts was a perfect choice. This collection of well-written short stories immediately captured my attention." M

"Pages of humour, whimsy, sadness, and moments that make you take a step back and really think. There is something for everyone in this collection, and I can't wait to read more of Pete's work." Jeimer

"Pete Mitchell’s ‘Read My Shorts’ is an intriguing collection of delightful fiction stories brought to bear, that you won’t want to put down. Deep and meaningful perspectives of real life—love, humour, sorrow, health and kindness." Cindy

"‘Read My Shorts’ is a collection of varied and thought-provoking stories. A book that you will not want to put down until you turn the last page." David

"Love your humour and your concise language. I enjoyed this book a lot!" L

Following 'Darwin's Wake'

Read My Shorts follows on from the success of my first book, Darwin’s Wake (released 2022), a story that found many readers across Australia and beyond.

This new collection continues my exploration of life’s ironies, tragedies, and quiet joys — in shorter, sharper form.

Official Book Launch

The official launch of Read My Shorts will take place at the Independent Author Book Fair in Bunbury on Sunday, 30 November 2025.

The fair is part of Art in the Garden 2025, held at the Stirling Street Arts Centre, a heritage venue alive with creativity. Expect live music, fashion shows, food vans, and more than 30 artisan stalls, alongside 31 independent authors spanning many genres.

You’ll find me at Stall 8 in Studio 4, where signed copies of Read My Shorts will be available throughout the day. Look out for a few Book Fair-only specials.

A Personal Note

Publishing this collection has been both exhilarating and humbling. Each story began as a spark. A brief observation, a phrase overheard, or a quiet “what if?” that refused to go away. An insight into the origin of many of the short pieces is provided via a series of Author Notes.

I hope you’ll find something that speaks to you in these pages. Thank you for reading, supporting, and sharing my writing journey.

Pete Mitchell

petemitchell.com.au