Henry Lawson’s first book was published by his mother on the printing press she used for her Dawn women’s magazine. That book was published three days before Christmas in 1894. Henry seems never to have been pleased by the book—neither the contents nor the presentation. He was certainly not pleased by his mother and their dealings over the book. As such, Henry happily switched publishers to Angus & Robertson when that opportunity arose. This change led to the development of a strong friendship with George Robertson that lasted throughout the remainder of Henry’s life. Angus & Robertson published the first two of their Henry Lawson books in 1896. In February they released a collection of Henry’s poems and then in August they published a collection of prose works.

Lawson books referred to in the episode:

Short Stories in Prose and Verse(December 1894). Sydney: Louisa Lawson.

In the Days When the World Was Wide and Other Verses (February 1896). Sydney: Angus & Robertson.

While the Billy Boils(August 1896). Sydney: Angus & Robertson.