Title : Down Under
Author : Bill Bryson
Rating : 4 Stars out of 5.
Summary : Slight criticism of a superb book.
I recently spent almost 5 weeks in Oz and was handed this book by my son on arrival. Its a perfect book to read of relaxation ( and a little education) either whilst travelling or on return from Oz. His writing is so enjoyable and so apt. My only criticism is that there are some places he should have given more time to, although he did this in his book about Great Britain, as soom places are far more fun than he seemed to appreciate. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Title : Living and Working in Australia: A City by City Guide
Author : Roberta Duman
Rating : 5 Stars out of 5.
Summary : Best Aussie guide around...
This book is a no-nonsense guide that offers really practical information about living and, in particular, working in Australia. I had brought other guides on this subject but found this book stuffed full of truly useful information that I could use ahead of making a decision on leaving the UK. In particular, how to find out if there would be work for me when I arrived in the country and how to find potential employers #8211; invaluable! It also gave up to date information on the cost of living and finances #8211; none of which I had any idea of until I read this book.
I particularly liked the Brit tips and felt reassured that the reader wrote this from recent personal experience. I will be taking it with me as I've booked my trip down under!
Title : Lonely Planet : Australian Phrasebook
Author : Sue Butler
Rating : 4 Stars out of 5.
Summary : A must-have for any Aussie visitor
used this book for my 8 month trip round australia, certainly was my bible (sorry) The information is very acurate with only a couple of mistakes that left me staying in what can only be describe as an ex-mental hospital with a few left-over patients!.. apart from that, I stayed in over 100 hostels, all listed within the book and all as acurate as the descriptions!.. if your oz bound buy it!
Title : Xenophobe's Guide to Kiwis (Xenophobe's Guide S.)
Author : Christine Cole Catley
Rating : 5 Stars out of 5.
Summary : Nostalia and Laughs
Writing this as a critical kiwi, I thought it was a fantastic book, was a a real treasure! I had no idea there was so many mannerisms and thoughts I have that are so particular to the kiwi way of life! Felt very nostalgic at times and felt homesick, but laughed just as much! Could not put it down, will make sure my English friends and family read it so they understand me better!
Title : Xenophobe's Guide to Kiwis (Xenophobe's Guide S.)
Author : Christine Cole Catley
Rating : 5 Stars out of 5.
Summary : Brilliant work
Brilliant work which shows great insight into the beliefs and fables of New Zealanders in both a contemporary and historical context, in a humorous way which reflects the Kiwi ability to laugh at themselves I am sure there isn't a New Zealander around who couldn't recognize the traits portrayed in either themselves or people they know. I also have no doubt that in time the guide will be seen as an important historical resource #8211; where else can you find accurate and pertinent data spanning generations of New Zealanders in just 63 pages!
The authors are to be congratulated for truly encapsulating the Kiwi trait of being able to laugh at themselves.
The most hilarious book I have read in ages.
Title : The Fatal Shore: History of the Transportation of Convicts to Australia, 1787-1868 (Harvill Panther S.)
Author : Robert Hughes
Rating : 5 Stars out of 5.
Summary : Well worth the read.
This book is an excellent read, both accessible and fluid in its writing as well as detailed and well researched.
I'm sure that this book will be an invaluable resource for those studying or interested in the transportation process and Australian history in general.
While the main focus is on the penal colonies, the book opens with fascinating insights into both the Aboriginal group around Sydney harbour at the time and also the Georgian "Working" and "criminal" class. Both of which give depth and range to the subject at hand.
Being a history teacher myself I can recommend this book for teachers who are looking for something new and interesting to spice up the industrial revolution. And for the general reader I would recommend this book as a fascinating and balanced insight into a very different world. One that is both part of and a world away from the Georgian world we so often hear about.
Title : Living and Working in Australia (Living Working S.)
Author : David Hampshire
Rating : 5 Stars out of 5.
Summary : Spot On!
I haven't even gotten to Australia yet and this book has been incredibly useful to me. I am relocating to Sydney next month and this book helped me negotiate my new contract and determine what I need to do before I go. It also has great sections for the worriers amongst us, such as what exactly happens when you reach Immigration Control in the Airport. I'll definitley be taking it with me and dipping into it many times over the next few months.
