The Getting of Wisdom

The Getting of Wisdom was first published in 1910 and has continued to sell well. Germaine Greer’s introduction, of course, makes this new handsome edition even more appealing to the reader.

Described by H. G. Wells as the best school story he knew, The Getting of Wisdom is the classic Australian novel of school days, a compelling and frank account of a young girl’s coming of age.

‘Sexual tension tightens every page’ writes Germaine Greer. ‘The enduring truth is that The Getting of Wisdom is Richardson’s only great book, precisely because the subject is, like the rest of us, ordinary, and therefore deeply important.’

In 2012, Text is sponsoring a Henry Handel Richardson writing competition for school students. The competition is open to students in Years 10 – 12 (or overseas equivalent), with prizes awarded to original pieces of writing in any genre, that show some link to Henry Handel Richardson and/or her work. Entries close on 31 August, 2012 and will be judged by Helen Garner. There is an adults writing prize too. For more details, visit the Henry Handel Richardson society webpage.

Praise for The Getting of Wisdom:

‘Truly a great book’

Canberra Times

‘I have been reading your Getting of Wisdom with enormous admiration…Your little rag of a girl is a most adorable little beast.’

H.G. Wells, letter to Henry Handel Richardson