Author Peter Macinnis has done it again with the second edition of The Big Book of Australian History, awarded 'Notable Book' by the Children's Book Council of Australia in 2014. Drawing on the impressive collections of the National Library of Australia, this comprehensive book provides children with an interesting and engaging overview of the history of Australia.
Jam packed with colourful images and interesting facts, The Big Book of Australian History makes history accessible to children, introducing them to an array of people and events that have helped shape Australia into what it is today. From Ancient Australia, the Dreaming, Voyages of Discovery, Founding Colonies and the Explorers, to the Anzacs, the Great Depression, Sporting Life and Embracing Multiculturalism, to name only a few topics, this book is more than just a history book.
Children will read about some of the most significant contributors to Australia’s history such as Governor Lachlan Macquarie, inventor David Unaipon, aviator Charles Kingsford Smith, land rights leader Vincent Lingiari and the first female Prime Minister Julie Gillard. With well-laid out text, eye catching pictures by Australian artists and photographers all sourced from the National Library of Australia’s collection, children will be utterly enthralled as well as educated.
Author Peter Macinnis' enthusiastic retelling of Australia's story is infectious. Among the important events and the significant moments, Macinnis also includes lesser-known, interesting details that bring Australian history to life. Children will relish reading these quirky and fascinating facts scattered throughout the book.
For example, did you know that, in 1934, the ABC developed ‘synthetic’ cricket, in which radio broadcasters gave a ball-by-ball description of the game, using sound effects to simulate the sound of bat on ball and the applause of the crowd?
Easy for children to navigate with a wealth of information, The Big Book of Australian History is definitely a book to dip into and savour. It makes a great addition to any young Australian’s bookshelf and is a ‘must have’ in every Australian classroom.
Title: The Big Book of Australian History
Author: Peter Macinnis
Publisher: National Library of Australia, $39.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 May 2015
Format: Soft Cover
ISBN: 9780642278722
For ages: 8-16
Type: Junior Non-Fiction, Non-Fiction
