The Big Book of Australian History

The Big Book of Australian History by Peter Macinnis (NLA Publishing)

PB RRP $39.99

ISBN 9780642278722

Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

The Big Book of Australian History presents a ‘broad overview’ of Australian history from Ancient Australia that reaches back 3.5 billion years, until today. The outstanding illustrations are taken from the extensive collections of the National Library of Australia. They give visual reinforcement to the text and make it a valuable resource for ages 8-16, or in my opinion, an ageless audience.

This finely produced reference book of 292 pages is compiled under 20 headings, extending into a generous amount of sub-categories. These categories are specific milestones in Australia’s rich history and can be accessed at random, under chronological or subject order, or under names or titles, all listed in the 9 page Index.

The subjects include The Dreamtime, Early Settlement, political, social and religious aspects of history, Federation, the Wars, Antarctic Exploration, Flight, Immigration, sporting history, famous Australians who have left their mark on the world, and so much more.

This beautiful and must-have compilation was created ‘with the help of a consultant historian, Indigenous advisor, and teachers and students. It is ideal for those who want a simple, detailed but accessible look at Australia’s History. It’s also an essential acquisition for schools and libraries, even overseas visitors, or as an indispensible book to dip into whenever information is called for. Coming soon is The Big Book of Indigenous History, edited by Professor John Maynard. Look out for it.

This book would suit readers aged 8 to 16 years.

The Big Book of Australian History

The Big Book of Australian History by Peter Macinnis (National Library of Australia Publishing)
HB RRP $39.99
ISBN 9780642278326
Reviewed by Vicki Stanton

What a fantastic book! And it is indeed a big book encompassing the history of a big country from its very formation to contemporary times.

Written largely in a chronological fashion, Macinnis' informative and child-friendly text charts the course of Australia's pre-history and history. Beginning with the formation of our island continent and mega-fauna, chapters then explore the coming of the first people to Australia and Indigenous culture, early explorers and the founding of the colonies, exploration by Europeans, the gold rushes and the resultant growth of the cities, federation, the Great War and the ANZACs, the Great Depression, World War Two and post-war Australia. There are also thematic chapters on modern times, sport (of course - this is a book about Australia!), disasters, multiculturalism, the arts and controversies, some of which are still lingering and unresolved.

NLA Publishing always draws on the vast archives of the Library and this visual aspect adds so much. Maps, photographs, paintings and objects illustrate Australia's history as much as the text and combines to offer a sumptuous insight to our nation in the past, present and future. Importantly, the book ends with the reminder that everyone contributes to history and there is a call to all of us to make Australia a better place through our actions.

While it was written specifically for young people, all of us will find something in this comprehensive coverage of every aspect of Australian history - the good, the bad and the ugly - and the often conflicting perspectives held. Every home in Australia deserves a copy of this outstanding book. I leave ours on the coffee table and without fail everyone picks it up to peruse the gorgeous glossy pages chock full of Australia's heritage.