I got this book at the Tarrytown NY library book fair when I was in town visiting my sister. This is one of my favorite Bryson books, so I was glad to find another release copy.

I first read this book years ago via audiobook, read by Bryson himself, and enjoyed it very much. It's his account of several trips to Australia that added up to a tour around (and through) the country, with stops at the major cities and the most desolate spots, and with visits to what may be the oldest surviving lifeforms on earth and to somebody else's back garden (where Bryson was chased by dogs).

Bryson can be ludicrous, informative, inspirational, and just plain funny - sometimes within the same paragraph. I learned a lot about Australian history and geography, laughed a lot, and felt as if I'd been along for the ride.

I plan to leave this book in or near Woodman's Restaurant at around 6 or so, when I stop by for dinner with a friend. Hope the finder enjoys the book!