In A Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson Book Review

In a Sunburned Country

In A Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson is a travelogue that chronicles the author’s journey through Australia.

The book follows Bryson as he travels around Australia by train and car, conversing with locals and reflecting on the country’s history and culture. He visits places such as White Cliffs, where there is not much to do but a pub, gas station, café, grocery store, laundry service, and an opal shop.

Bryson approaches the subject with his characteristic humor, dry wit, and historical digressions from the narrative. He explains why he wrote the book and shares his experiences of the country.

The main themes of the book are the diversity of Australia, its long commutes between cities, and its friendly inhabitants. Bryson also touches on the country’s peculiar and lethal wildlife, as well as its secret bomb tests.

In A Sunburned Country is a humorous and insightful look at Australia and its people. It is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the country.

What I Liked

I think that this book is Bryson’s best travelogue. The research and historical anecdotes are perfect. The route is varied. He’s cantankerous but not grumpy. It takes place at a happy, stable part of Australia’s history (right before the Sydney Olympics). And his interactions are all hilarious.

What I Did Not Like

In the epilogue, he really trashes the Atlanta Olympics. Now, I know that the Atlanta Olympics had issues (they all do) and I am biased towards my adopted hometown, but wow – it’s a bit much.

Otherwise, A++ book.

In A Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
$9.99
In In A Sunburned Country, Bill Bryson takes us on a lively journey through Australia, blending humor with insights about its culture and history. As he travels by train and car, he meets locals and explores quirky spots like White Cliffs. I loved Bryson's witty style and the rich historical context he weaves in. The book shines a light on Australia’s diversity and its friendly people, though I wasn't a fan of his harsh take on the Atlanta Olympics in the epilogue. Overall, it’s an entertaining and informative read that I highly recommend!
Pros:
  • Bryson's humor and dry wit enhance the narrative.
  • The research and historical anecdotes are well-executed.
  • The varied route and interactions with locals are entertaining.
Cons:
  • The epilogue is overly critical of the Atlanta Olympics.
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12/08/2024 06:03 pm GMT
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