Big-noting: the Heroic Theme in Australian War Writing

“An engagingly readable, entertaining yet scholarly survey of the Australian war mythology. An adventurous, but meticulous study …this is a book that bayonets a too-long-held myth.” – “Judges’ Report, 1988 Age “Book of the Year”” “…the most incisive, comprehensive and controversial account so far to appear of Australian literature of war …carries out a neglected task of literary and cultural history.” – Peter Pierce “Age” “…a brave argument and a brave book …a beautifully written book …you’ll never feel quite the same about Anzac or Gallipoli again.” – Judith Smart “Victorian Historical Journal” “Gerster’s central heresy …deserves to be taken very seriously indeed. The book should be bought at the shop rather than burned at the stake.” – Mark Thomas “Canberra Times” “Dr Robin Gerster lectures in English at Monash University. He is the co-author of “Seizures of youth: the sixties and Australia” (Hyland House), and has been published widely in Australian journals and newspapers.”.