AustLit

'The Brendon James Life Foundation is Australia’s premier cryonic company, with its patient-storage facility situated in outback NSW. To boost sales, and increase its public awareness, it announces a nationwide competition, with the winner to receive a free cryonic suspension. A controversial condition of entry stipulates that all applicants have a terminal illness, with only a further six months’ life expectancy. Geoffrey Blakely, a retired Newcastle Council worker, is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. His family is aghast at his decision to enter the competition, desirous of a traditional family funeral. A determined father and husband soon realises that winning the competition is only half the battle in his quest for frozen immortality.' (Source: Publisher's blurb)

'The North Colony of ants lives in a part of The Great Victorian Desert of South Australia. The continuing success of the Colony has been underpinned by 100 million years of evolution and instinct.

A trial nuclear detonation causes their food supply to be contaminated by radioactive fallout. The gradual digestion of their tainted food has a remarkable effect on their small brains, such that they now develop intelligence and awareness.

'A Colony Council is formed to assist the citizens in an orderly transition from instinct to individual intelligence and decision making. One of the most pressing problems that the Council has to combat is the ants’ acquired fear of death.

'Follow their adventures as the leader of the North Colony Council is mysteriously approached by The Supreme One who reveals the purpose of their existence and the promise of an Afterlife for all citizens. The daily practice of Reverence is introduced into their lifestyle by a Council proclamation.

'But not all citizens are happy with the daily ritual of Reverence, and an aging war hero decides to make a stand. ' (Publisher's blurb)