Munin, a former political prisoner, runs Blitar Magic Garage in Setiabudi, a makeshift settlement in central Jakarta. When whispers of redevelopment threaten Setiabudi’s fragile balance, Munin and his neighbours are forced to confront a dark web of corruption, greed and political manoeuvring. While they grapple with their pasts and futures, alliances are strained in their efforts to defend the kampung against the developers and the army. Will the vision of Suharto’s relentless progress overshadow the dreams of Soekarno’s little people? As Munin repairs cars belonging to Jakarta’s elite with magic, spirit warnings suggest to him that trouble is brewing. Could it be the land clearance or is it something more sinister? Blitar Magic Garage is a darkly compelling tale of corruption, greed and panelbeating in Suharto’s Indonesia.

‘Takes readers into the alleys and canals of Setiabudi, a fringe settlement
targeted by corrupt developers. Blitar Magic Garage will shine among this year’s novels like a beacon.’ Alison Broinowski, Australian Book Review

‘The kampung may be a vibrant place, but it is the characters who give it life.’ Christopher Bantick, Sunday Canberra Times

‘Donnelly’s translation of Javanese myth and superstition into magic realism is adept.’ Francesca Beddie, Canberra Times

‘Blitar Magic Garage is a powerful portrait of a modern Jakarta still influenced by ancient mythical beliefs.’ Robert Hefner, author and former Literary Editor, Canberra Times

Australian author of two novels, John Donnelly’s Indonesian adventure began as a 12-year old when he jumped into a fisherman’s outrigger canoe at dawn in Sanur. He studied Indonesian language and literature at university and lived and worked in Jakarta in the early 1990s. His immersion in the changing life in Jakarta at that time was the catalyst for Blitar Magic Garage. After working in Southeast Asia, the Pacific and beyond, John’s Indonesian journey continues. He now calls regional NSW home, where he is working on bringing more Indonesian tales to the world.