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Wonderful
Reception for Jim’s Magnum Opus
Jim has been thrilled at the critical response to his latest publication, The Book of Australian Popular Rhymed Verse, the 800+ page anthology of recitable Aussie verse released in April by ABC Books.
‘You always hope the critics and reviewers will agree with your selection and appreciate the way you put an anthology together,’ Jim said, ‘but the response has been really overwhelming.
‘This book has received more critical reviews and attention than anything I have ever done – and it has been universally positive. Even the usually toughest critics have been full of praise.
‘Almost every reviewer seems to have understood and appreciated the things I tried to do to make this the best, biggest and most readable collection of Aussie verse ever published, the 26 sections, the balance between old and new, humour and nostalgia, etc.
‘I couldn’t be happier with the response, it makes me feel that all the years of researching, collecting, editing and arranging Aussie verse have been worthwhile.‘
Critical Acclaim for Australia’s Largest-Ever Verse Anthology
‘Haynes’ passion for Australian verse and yarns means that we can continue to enjoy an important part of our literary tradition . . . In this anthology, humour is countered by pathos; the beauty of the bush is preserved and the piss is taken out of just about everyone.’ Dianne Dempsey, The Age, Melbourne.
‘Haynes has done a mighty job … It’s a treat.’ Tony Grantham, Sun Herald, Sydney.
‘It’s the sort of book you can’t stop reading out to people ... No Australian home should be without a copy.’ Mary Vernon, Townsville Bulletin.
‘This is indeed a very entertaining publication that should lead to a renewed interest in traditional poetry but a possible breakout of recitation.’ John Caples, Launceston Examiner.
‘This is a treasury of Australian favourites, and also a record of social history and national character.’ Mary Powis, North Shore Times
‘There’s life in the old doggerel yet ... This book has the full range of that life.’ Tony Troughear, The Newcastle Herald.
‘Haynes has created the largest collection of Australian rhymed verse to be published ... a definitive collection of Australian heritage.’ The Maitland Mercury.
"Readers of Australiana and lovers of nostalgia will treasure this collection that included favourites from grandparents' and parents' childhoods.' Glee Books
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