Good books on monitors are hard to come by and this is one of them. Up-to-date info and beautiful photo's (the one on the cover is almost worth the price of the book IMO) make it a must for anyone interested in these incredible dragon-like lizards.

From the magnificient and beautiful Perentie to the cute Short-Tailed Pygmy Monitor all the varanids occuring in Australia are described and illustrated. It is also a good reference for those who wish to keep them as pets.

There are few books available to gain an understanding of modern (prior to 1989) Bougainvillian history.

The author is an anthropologist who spent time in mainly the South west (Siwai) in the 1930's and episodically since.

His review of the island's history, geography and culture is good and thorough. He presents interesting insights into the reasons for the crisis and some of the different groups and players, but not in great detail.

He could be regarded as biased because he worked for Bougainville Copper in the 70's and ? 1980's. However the book seems quite independant in its stance and it is likely that his prior association with the mining company is mainly responsible for him not expanding a bit more in this area.

It is not really dated and this is an indication of how useful a book it is.

Overall this is a must to read before visiting Bougainville, which is a very pleasant place as are the people.

This book was fascinating, and very informative. The book gave a detailed account of Lieutent William Bligh's journey to Timor in a small, wooden launch, not more that 23 feet in length. Into this boat went, 19 men, some megar supplies, and some navigational material. The hardships that faced the boat, and men ahead were astounding. It was more astounding that such an overladden boat was able to take a 3,600 mile journey, with the loss of only a singal man.

More than "just" a travel guide, this book offers thought-provoking insights into Australian culture through essays that provide an insider's look at the territory for the visitor (or would-be visitor).

I found the section of colorful and quirky Australian dialect especially entertaining and illuminating.

I've never been to Australia but after reading this book I am more anxious to travel there. This book is a comprehensive and useful travel guide PLUS.

I just finished "Caitlin's Country" and I REALLY liked it! It was nicely paced and kept me wanting to know what was next so I couldn't put it down! What a pleasant surprise from a new author! Although as an adult, I could have used more detail, I think it's very well paced for a teen or young adult reader. I'd think it would be especially appealling to teenage girls who have recently been forced to move or to live with a different parent. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this book to any teen.

As a side benefit, some of the English/Australian terminology explained in it helped me as a Texan to understand some of the terminology used in the "Harry Potter" books that I've read. Quite an unexpected benefit!

This comprehensive and beautifully illustrated guidebook is an ideal reference book to some of the best bushwalks found throughout Australia. Over 180 walks ranging from easy family walks to challenging distance walks are featured in the 'coffee table' size publication.

Classic Walks of Australia gives a detailed description of the walking conditions to be found in each state and highlights travel arrangements, climatic variations and notable geological and historical features in the region. Each walk is illustrated with a coloured map and listed with a summary of attractions, distance, time, fitness ratings, topographic maps required and contact details for further information (including campsites and equipment).

Walks vary to include those in desert landscapes, rainforests, alpine areas, tropics, coastal paths, mountainous regions and offshore islands; the variety is stunning and provides a wonderful cross section to the varied Australian landscape.

Classic Walks of Australia is a very beautiful and motivating gift for any bushwalk enthusiast from anywhere in the world.

Ourstanding interpretation. Great fluidity. Wonderful writing style. Highly recommend!

The culturgrams are a great reference for teachers, students, travelers, and researchers for quick information on history, geography, cultural, and other important information for each country listed. The information is accurate and as up-to-date as possible.

This book is out-of-print but, as the author, I suggest you put in a cross-reference to "New Zealand by Bike", the second edition, most recently revised in 1998. Thanks. N>B. Please note the author's name is Bruce Ringer not Brude Mirger.

Danger Follows is a wonderful book for the Junior High age. Even though I am long out of this age group I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The setting sare extremely well done, from Australia to the islands. Goerky Smith's descriptions are so wonderful, they must be first hand! The situations are those that the Junior High crowd can identify with. The adventures are wonderful, with a mystery to solve. Who is Captain Bligh, and who keeps following the Wymans? It's all up to Jill to come up with the answers in this wonderful book that will interest teens and adults alike.