The Making of Julia Gillard

Australians saw many versions of Julia Gillard during her political career. Witty sparring opponent to Tony Abbott. Loyal deputy to and night-time assassin of Kevin Rudd. Hanging-on-by-her-fingernails leader of the land.

But what really happened behind the scenes? And why?

Drawing on interviews with Julia Gillard's friends and foes – and with Gillard herself – award-winning biographer Jacqueline Kent gives us a complete account of Gillard's entire political career. She describes her Adelaide childhood, her time as a fiery student activist, her battles to get into Parliament, her policy decisions and their consequences. Kent depicts Gillard's dramatic ascent to becoming Australia's first female prime minister, and her tumultuous time in office.

The Making of Julia Gillard is an insightful and immensely readable account of this remarkable woman and her leadership – and its abrupt ending.

'Jam-packed with anecdotes and titbits about this fascinating [woman].' Sydney Morning Herald

'Clear-sighted . . . [Kent] gives us a portrait of a woman of remarkable composure and resilience, gifted with an extraordinary ability to get things done in the face of overwhelming odds . . . Kent doesn't shy away from Gillard's weaknesses . . . but keeps them in perspective.' Saturday Age

'An inspirational figure . . . Her story . . . is one of determination, self-belief, resilience and hard work.' Weekend Australian