In A Sunburned Country
Ratings76
Average rating4
15
Ratings76
Average rating4
*In a Sunburned Country* is the 2000 travelogue book about Australia written by best-selling travel writer Bill Bryson. The title is taken from the famous Australian poem, "My Country". In other countries, including Britain, the book was titled *Down Under*.
In this book, Bill Bryson describes his travels by railway and car throughout Australia, his conversations with people in all walks of life about the history, geography, unusual plants and animals of the country, and his wry impressions of the life, culture and amenities (or lack thereof) in each locality.
In a style similar to his book *A Walk in the Woods*, Bryson's research enabled him to include many stories about Australia's 19th-century explorers and settlers who suffered extreme deprivations, as well as details about its natural resources, culture, and economy. His writings are intertwined with recurring humorous themes, notably, in the chapter Crossing Australia he makes constant reference to drinking of urine to survive, as was done by many 19th century explorers.
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Reviews with the most likes.
At its best, it's full of laugh-out-loud moments and descriptions of the Outback that make you want to experience the natural wonders. At its worst, it's like listening to your elderly relative explain at length their disappointment with their economy hotel.
Delightful! Warm, gentle, funny, even informative. And even though the everything-in-Australia-can-kill-you motif seems overdone nowadays, Bryson makes it seem fresh. He also makes me feel eager to pay a visit down there.
Note about the audio CD: Bryson's voice is on the quiet side, with an odd and slightly stilted accent. A bit challenging to listen to in a car with the windows down, but probably ideal for listening to in a quiet spot at home.
I'm so sad it's over! You know you've read an amazing book when your heart says, “Wait, what? That's it?!” It feels like Bryson borrowed a piece of my soul, took it to Australia with him, and forgot to bring it back. I feel like I've been there (I've never even been out of the States once in my sad life) and need to go back for a second trip NOW! His writing style kept me engaged and made me laugh out loud to the point of tearing up at times. There were even poignant moments, specifically about the forgotten Aborigines or the humble stromatolites, that had me tearing up for less humorous reasons. If you have even a passing fancy for ANYTHING Australia-related, PLEASE treat yourself to this read! A new best friend is waiting to show you a world you've never even dreamed of!
