I wish I could deliver information with such stylistic engagement and wit. I would love to have half of Bryson's talent and comedic knack. Really half of either one would be enough. ( )

All these years later I remember vividly his section on box jellyfish. I had already been in Australia when I read it and it brought back an appreciation for that wonderful country. Feels like I should re-read it again at some point. ( )

2020 ( )

I have always wanted to go to Australia and this book was an entertaining travel guide. Bill Bryson is witty and captivating. He intertwines modern day places to see with the history of the continent. ( )

Although this book is 22 years old at this point, it is still a wonderfully funny and informative book about Australia. The audiobook is read by the author, which makes it more interesting. I learned much about Australia that I did not know, some things trivial and some not. I learned again that cricket is incredibly boring - I laughed out loud through much of that section. I knew but had it confirmed that there are many interesting ways to die in Australia that are unique, from poisonous snakes and spiders, to crocodiles, to the extreme conditions in the Outback, to all manner of sea creatures with strong stings. Bryson writes about the history of the country, in brief, and in particular included how the aboriginal peoples were heavily discriminated against until very recently. I am sure that some of it still goes on. As with all of Bryson's books, I enjoyed the book very much. ( )