Author Bill Bryson’s witty signature style is prevalent throughout his Australian travelogue, “In a Sunburned Country.” Although the publication date was 20 years ago, so much of his story traveling throughout the country remains a compelling read. In fact, part of the draw is the almost forgotten pre-technology travel means he uses — a somewhat sentimental throwback experience before the convenience of cell phones, internet and google maps that was standard operating procedure for traveling in that day. Even his note-taking and journaling of the trip is done with a pen and spiral notebook… imagine!
His entertaining reporting and meticulous research easily fulfill an inquisitive traveler’s desire to learn. He records in detail historical cases of lost explorers and discoveries of plants and animals unique only to Australia. All this detail is told within his descriptive narrative chronicling the vastness, beauty and danger of the many regions. He poignantly does NOT forget the Aboriginal Australians, in his writings; a people that have been forgotten, even made invisible, by so many. Every time I picked up the book to read further, I felt as though I was joining a friend, not to mention a highly engaging and educated guide, on an arm chair down under adventure.
Three words that describe this book: Fascinating, Educational; Humorous
You might want to pick this book up if: Your interested in the intriguingly singular Australian Down Under — it’s history, politics, peoples, culture, plant and animal life forms, land and water characteristics and a multitude of sometimes ironic almost unbelievable anecdotes shared in typical Bill Bryson style, this book offers an adventure you won’t quickly forget.
-Anonymous
This reader review was submitted as part of Adult Summer Reading. We will continue to share them throughout the year.
