Review of Adventures of a Londoner who now calls Australia home

Please use this sub-forum to discuss any non-fiction books such as autobiographies or political commentary books.
Post Reply
User avatar
RJ Reviews
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 682
Joined: 30 Jun 2023, 12:28
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 95
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-rj-reviews.html
Latest Review: The Great Eight Chase by Fabian Grant
Reading Device: 1400697484

Review of Adventures of a Londoner who now calls Australia home

Post by RJ Reviews »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Adventures of a Londoner who now calls Australia home" by Mary Sanghvi.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


A memoir of blunders, near disasters, and other hilarious incidents sounds interesting, doesn't it? In the field of memoirs, Mary Sanghvi's Adventures of a Londoner who now calls Australia home is truly unique. This humorous, entertaining, and exuberant book is about events that occurred before and after the author moved to Melbourne with her husband and three children in 1981. That, however, is not the only focus of this work. There are a lot more than just mishaps and near-disasters. Discover what occurs when a Londoner moves to Australia by reading the book.

The first thing that one notices about the narrative is the humor. The author narrates the events and facts with an interesting perspective that entertains the readers. Another notable aspect is the inclusion of historical tidbits of all the places mentioned in the book. The author indulges readers in the little-known stories and facts about places, cultures, and animals. Her evocative language paints a vivid picture of the flora and fauna of the countries she visited. I especially loved reading about the backstory behind Australia's discovery by Captain James Cook. She dubbed this prominent historical event as the result of a series of quirky decisions. Throughout the book, we get glimpses of the beautiful landscapes of several European countries and Australia. The author traveled a lot, and this book catalogs those experiences. While some events of her life are poignant, the others are downright hilarious.

Being the only continent of the Southern Hemisphere, Australia enjoys a very different culture and natural resources. The author talks, in detail, about the differences between European countries and Australia in terms of economy, society, culture, and ecosystem. The easy, conversational tone makes the book relatable, particularly when she talks about disasters like missing keys and struggles with technology. I admire that she did not paint an all-good picture of Australia and included the troublesome events like COVID-19, disastrous bushfires, and the mistreatment of the Aboriginals. Oh, and we get to learn a lot about spiders as well.

I found some minor errors throughout the book, but they did not disrupt my reading pace. I rate this book 5 out of 5 for being unique, hilarious, and enlightening. Those historical trivia are bound to fascinate. I recommend this book to all, particularly those who enjoy reading about travel memoirs, are interested in unusual trivia (who knew that the first flush toilets to be built in England were in the garrisons on Hadrian’s wall), and enjoy good humor.

******
Adventures of a Londoner who now calls Australia home
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
"The gods grow jealous of too much contentment anywhere, and they show their displeasure all of a sudden.” - R. K. Narayan, Maldudi Days
User avatar
Gerry Steen
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 2111
Joined: 08 May 2023, 20:08
Favorite Book: Winning the War on Cancer
Currently Reading: Plan To Profit
Bookshelf Size: 337
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-gerry-steen.html
Latest Review: She Had Wings by Audrey Carnegie

Post by Gerry Steen »

Hi, Rj, you did a thorough and well-written review of this book. I have always wanted to know more about Australia. This book sounds like it will provide me with all the tidbits that I do not know about. I am also interested in trivia. What is there not to like !? I am adding this book to my bookshelves. Have a great day! :techie-studyinggray:
User avatar
Terry Kimble
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 284
Joined: 24 Jul 2023, 07:38
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 130
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-terry-kimble.html
Latest Review: Deceptive Calm by Patricia Skipper

Post by Terry Kimble »

RJ, this book sounds great! Who would have thought from the title and book cover? Humorous and enlightening? Sold! Your excellent review has forced me to check this one out! (Goodness, if I keep reading these marvelous reviews, I will have to build more bookshelves soon!) :lire4:
Aaron Joseph Maupin
In It Together VIP
Posts: 463
Joined: 30 Nov 2023, 00:11
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 64
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-aaron-joseph-maupin.html
Latest Review: Play Golf Better Faster: The Classic Guide to Optimizing Your Performance and Building Your Best Fast by Kalliope Barlis

Post by Aaron Joseph Maupin »

This review is very helpful, providing insights into the unique and humorous aspects of the book. It includes praise for the author's narrative style, the incorporation of historical tidbits, and her ability to paint vivid pictures. The review mentions both poignant and hilarious events, along with comparisons between European countries and Australia. It also appreciates the author's inclusion of troublesome events and minor errors, which didn't affect the reading experience. Overall, the review is sufficient and likely to motivate readers to buy the book, as it portrays it as a unique, hilarious, and enlightening addition to anyone's library.
Post Reply

Return to “Non-Fiction Books”