American Journeys

by Don Watson

Book Overview

In a series of journeys acclaimed Aussie author Don Watson set out to explore the nation that has influenced him more than any other. Traveling by rail gives Watson a unique and seductive means of... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1740513169
• ISBN13: 9781740513166
• Release Date: January 2008
• Publisher: Knopf / Random House
• Weight: 1.35 lbs.

Customer Reviews

An Australian view of America

This a fascinating view of America by an acclaimed Australain writer. Don Watson covers a huge amount of territory during his journeying through 'God's own country', or in his words, 'Evangelical America'. But although religion is uniquely important to the way Americans see themselves, make judgements, and view the world, there are contradictions and paradoxes aplenty. Watson revisits New Orleans during the afternmath of Hurricane Katrina; he journeys to Birmingham Alabama and takes time out to open some of the deep weeping wounds caused by intolerance and bigotry, and which were brought to a head during the Civil Rights Movement, and the peace marches of the 60s - which eventually ended segregation. He spends time reminiscing and paying homage to Martin Luther King. As the former speech writer for a former Prime Minister, Watson has a wide knowledge of political theories, systems and philosophies, referring for instance, to the Civil War, and describing in fascinating detail, the psychological insight of General Sherman. He also relates amost with wonderment and awe, the complex, personality, character and achievements of Abraham Lincoln. It makes one wonder where all the great statesmen have gone - because they are desperately needed today. Watson travels by the somewhat unorthodox and unreliable Amtrak rail system to many strange and fascinating places. He also hires a car and describes the America he sees from the motorist's point of view. Don Watson, along with David Marr, is also a superb Australian essayist. The Learning Process: Some Creative Impressions