A Man's Got to Have a Hobby

Long Summers with my Dad

By: William McInnes

Narrated by: William McInnes

William McInnes' best-selling memoir, A Man's Got to Have a Hobby, takes us back to the long summer holidays of the 1960s and '70s and the last of the baby-boomer childhoods. William narrates with humour and affection about his family and especially his mum and dad, who talked to the TV set and enjoyed life in their house near the bay.

William McInnes is a talented author and a natural storyteller. A tail-end baby boomer, he recalls summer holidays that seemed to go on forever, when he and his mates would walk down to fish in the bay; a time when the Aussie battler stood as the local Labor candidate and looked out for his mates; and a time when the whole family would rush into the lounge room to watch a new commercial on TV.

He talks about his father, a strong character who talks to the furniture, dances with William's mother in the kitchen, and spends his free time fixing up the house and doing the best for his family. In A Man's Got to Have a Hobby, you can hear his father speaking and listen to his mother singing.

This is a story about people who aren't famous but should be. It's about cane toads and families, love and hope and fear, laughter, death and life. Most of all it is a realistic, down-to-earth story by a man who had a great time growing up. His warmth and humour come through in every word.

This Australian memoir tells of a time that will be familiar to many readers and a delight for all.

©2006 William McInnes (P)2015 Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd

Critic reviews

"McInnes applies a deft touch to a swag of recollections, shaping a yarn that should be listed with the national treasures." ( Courier Mail)

"This will make you laugh till you cry." ( The Age)

Wonderful story

The narrator put great emotion and life to the story. I did slow the speed a bit because the narrator’s voice was somewhat difficult to follow but certainly not a deterrent. It was such a joy to listen to a story about such an effortless life, family love, appreciation and awareness. I laughed much during the story and I was saddened by some of it, but it’s all just life. I highly recommend this to anybody who appreciates family, love and life.

Loved this Book

such an enjoyable journey with the author. Memories of his father and life in a large loving, slightly wonky family. Love of people & a place filled with memories worth keeping!! Memories that shaped a life worth living unafraid to say what he believes. Well done!!