Rowan MacDonald's Reviews > It's a Scorcher!: Tales of the Australian Summer

This is my third time reading a William McInnes book. I previously enjoyed Holidays, but disliked Yeah, Nah! – thankfully, this one is a return to form.

“Life is to be lived, and summer is the time to live well.”

McInnes is a natural storyteller. He effortlessly weaves personal anecdotes and stories alongside an exploration of things which define our Australian summers. It’s a book filled with trips down memory lane, as he reflects on summers from the past – the people and good times. I often found myself smiling or laughing while reading – a great way to start the year!

McInnes knows how to capture and portray Australian culture and tap into what makes our country unique. His easy going, yet witty and humorous style made it a light and relaxing read – perfect for enjoying outside under the sun!

It’s quite nostalgic and inevitably transported me back to summers gone by. McInnes can find both the hilarity and profound in otherwise mundane interactions. He’s a great observer with a knack for encapsulating the Australian experience, and at his best when balancing humour with genuine heartfelt moments.

The book covers everything from festivals, New Year fireworks, sports, cicadas, movies, and swimming attire, to iconic summer events like the Boxing Day Test, Australian Open, and Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

“The race’s very nature, putting oneself against the dangers of the open sea, instils a sense of national pride.”

McInnes talks about the timing of our Australian summer vs those in the northern hemisphere – how ours is particularly one of endings and beginnings as the calendar ticks over during it, creating a heightened sense of time passing.

This is a book that makes you think about the people who have been prominent in your life over the years, even those just passing through. While it lost a bit of momentum halfway, there was still plenty enough to make one ruminate. I found myself thinking about backyard cricket with Dad, how service stations used to be, and how we share sunrises with all those who have gone before us.

I don’t think there’s a more fitting book for the Australian summer as this one. It’s perfect for holidays – especially the period between Christmas and New Years when you have no idea what day it is.

“It’s a floating time where days disappear and you can easily forget the date and even what day it might be.”