Ebook: The big book of Australian history

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. It covers many of the main events in the nation's history, including: ·Ancient Australia ·The Dreaming ·Voyages of discovery ·Founding colonies ·The explorers ·The lure of gold ·Settling the land ·The growth of cities ·Federation ·Becoming Anzacs ·Modern times ·The Great Depression ·Defending Australia ·Building for the future ·Controversial issues ·The sporting life ·Embracing multiculturalism ·On the world stage ·Through good times and bad Packed with colourful images and interesting facts, The Big Book of Australian History introduces children to the many people and events that have made Australia what it is today. It also encourages them to think about how Australia has evolved as a nation. The book features stunning images from the collections of the National Library of Australia by artists such as Ellis Rowan, John Gould and S.T. Gill. It also tells the stories of some of the most significant contributors to Australia's cultural, political, sporting and social life, including Captain James Cook, Governor Lachlan Macquarie, Prime Minister Gough Whitlam and aviator Charles Kingsford Smith. Ages 10+. This is a book to dip into and savour. Author Peter Macinnis' enthusiastic retelling of Australia's story is infectious. Among the big events and the great moments that have shaped the country, Macinnis also includes lesser-known, interesting details that bring Australian history to life. 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? The Big Book of Australian History was created with the help of a consultant historian, Indigenous advisor, and experienced history editor and writer Dr Stephanie Owen Reeder, winner of the 2012 NSW Premier's Young People's History Prize. Read more...