AustLit

Doris Brett has worked as a clinical psychologist and resided in Melbourne with her husband and daughter. She studied English and Psychology at the University of New England and the University of Melbourne, and her writing often deals with dreams, memories, fairy tales and myths.

Brett's diagnosis with ovarian cancer and her subsequent treatment and recovery have formed the basis for her book of poems In the Constellation of the Crab (1996) and her memoir Eating the Underworld (2001). Her writing also draws upon her experiences of family life, particularly her difficult relationship with her sister, the author Lily Brett. A public dispute between the sisters over Lily's portrayal of their mother is the subject of letters in the Bulletin, and is also treated in Doris Brett's memoir.

Brett has also written books about bread-baking and psychology, and her work has been translated into several languages. In addition to the awards she has received, she was also shortlisted for the National Book Council Literary Award in 1996.