The Drum by Sidney J. Baker

The Drum

Australian Character and Slang

by Sidney J. Baker

Currawong Publishing Co., 1965, hardcover, dustjacket

Very Good Condition, a little edge and shelf wear, a little rubbing and bumping to edges and corners, no inscriptions, small finger mark on title page, dustjacket shows some edge and shelf wear with some rubbing and bumping to edges and corners, small tears and chipping, some scribble in blue ink to front and back cover  (see photographs)

“Is there an Australian Character? Of course, says the author of this stimulating book.  Here, for the first time, are set out precises details of what the Australian does, thinks and says, how he became what he is, why he has so many strong characteristics and what those characteristics are.
The Australian’s sex habits, humour, profanity and slang are only a few of the topics on which Sidney J. Baker writes.  As Australia’s leading authority on popular speech, his 2,000 eord dictionary of slang in the second part of this book brings his study of Australian Character vividly to life.  Both the dictionary and his witty and knowledgeable essays are required reading for anyone who wants to understand the Australian.”