The Cupboard Under the Stairs

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The Cupboard Under the Stairs is a novel by Australian author George Turner. It won the Miles Franklin Award in 1962, sharing the prize with The Well Dressed Explorer by Thea Astley. It is the second book in Turner’s Treelake series.

Publication details:
- First published in 1962 in Australia by Cassell
- Hardback, 214 pages
- Preceded by: A Stranger and Afraid
- Followed by: A Waste of Shame

Story
The book follows Harry White as he tries to rebuild his life after six years in a mental hospital.

Reception
- The Canberra Times praised it as an absorbing, sometimes frightening story with mature writing and thoughtful insight into the human condition.
- Lisa Hill, writing on ANZLitLovers, notes Jimmy’s strong support for Harry and the idea that a person should be allowed a fresh start despite prejudice against mental illness. She also points out the social and financial help Jimmy provides and places the book in the context of the era’s attitudes.

Dedication
“To Betty and Lindsay Bloomfield for one reason and another.”

Author’s note
Kilkalla is not based on any real part of the Department of Mental Hygiene. Turner uses general statements about the work there and emphasizes that it is experimental.