It’s strange sending a book into the world, I can no longer edit the content or ease its passage – it is out there on its own. It’s exciting, if not a little odd to see it on bookshelves ready to be bought by complete strangers. I feel like I need to chaperone the text, escort it home and hang around, helpfully explaining the background and thinking behind each paragraph. Too late, the book now needs to stand alone.
Yes, The Overland Track guidebook was launched at Fullers bookshop on Thursday 2 December. Thank you to the 30 or so fine folk who came for the occasion. Adam Croser generously did the honours of foisting the book upon the public, reflecting on the significance the walk has played in his life and the deep, spiritual pleasure wilderness hikes like the Overland bring.
At the launch I had the opportunity to chat with quite a few guests, and a good-looking bunch they were too. One older gent, Derrick, has completed the walk 80 times. Eighty! I’m thinking of calling the next edition of the book, Derrick’s Track. It was also great to meet Mike Thow, the herpetologist who kindly contributed his snake photos for the book, and who had drove clear across Tasmania to be at the launch
. Mike has won a stack of prizes for his amazing snake photos and you can see why if you get your eyeballs around a book or check out his website http://www.allaboutreptiles.com.au/
I’d also like to thank Fuller’s bookshop, frankly the best bookshop in the world – full of people so friendly they’ll make you blush.
I had a great night and hope others did too. Next stop for the launch jugganut, Bogong in Melbourne!
