As reviewed by Toni Whitmont in the November Booktopia Buzz. Click here to see all of Booktopia's Newsletters.
"I must admit I approached my interview with Susan Duncan with trepidation as her much loved and much praised memoirs, Salvation Creek and The House at Salvation Creek, had passed me by when they were originally released. While I had subsequently read them in preparation, I was unsure how she would be able to capture the spirit and essence of this very special place, nor how relevant she could make it to people living away from this blessed, watery northern corner of Sydney.
Let me tell you that from the moment I opened this glorious book, I was smiling. It is impossible not to feel happy exploring this book. And what Duncan successfully captures in words, her across the water neighbour Ong translates into the most marvellous, light filled images.
A Life on Pittwater takes the reader to this most beguiling of places, where tinnies take the place of cars and the social life revolves around both your neighbours, and their dogs. But it would be a mistake to think that this book is simply about Pittwater. There is something wonderfully universal about the spirit in which it has been put together, and for that reason, I am very excited to make it my book of the month. I for one will have no hesitation giving this book to anyone who wants to know what Australia can be at its finest."
Book description
Susan Duncan lives in Tarrangaua, the gracious house built for Dorothea Mackellar in 1925 and is a well-loved member of the small Pittwater community.
A Life on Pittwater takes the reader on a memorable trip to this beguiling place and presents all aspects of its distinctive way of life. There is Susan's lovely home with its gorgeous verandah; the lush surroundings, the bush and the bays; the wildlife and the ever-present dogs; the tinnies, the ferries and the peculiarities of living somewhere without cars; the boatsheds and the working boats; the bushfires; and, above all, the close community life.
Susan's text describes the life with warmth and heart and the stunning photography by Anthony Ong captures its unique beauty. This glorious book will make you smile as you turn the pages and lose yourself to the magic of Pittwater.
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