Review of Collits' Inn: Uncovering the Past

Please use this sub-forum to discuss any non-fiction books such as autobiographies or political commentary books.
Post Reply
Okorji98
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 234
Joined: 30 Jun 2022, 16:15
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 34
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-okorji98.html
Latest Review: The Reason Under fire by Abdulmouti Souwed

Review of Collits' Inn: Uncovering the Past

Post by Okorji98 »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Collits' Inn: Uncovering the Past" by Christine Stewart.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


Collits' Inn is regarded as one of the oldest structures in Australia. Pierce Collits, an ex-convict, constructed it almost 200 years ago. It has shown its historical significance since its initial opening in 1823. Christine Stewart describes the origin of the structure and explains how she and her husband, Russell, purchased it and the process used to renovate it meticulously. The book chronicles the building's reconstruction and the compilation of its historical records. Though the Stewarts had no idea that the inn had a rich past when they bought it, they would later learn that Collits' inn was much more than some old, decaying building. Pick up a copy of Collits’ Inn: Uncovering the Past by Christine Stewart and explore the history of a genuine landmark and one of the first inns in Australia.

There are several positive aspects to this book. I admit that I initially did not understand where the story was headed. But I later realized that the Stewarts had a sense of duty and felt obligated to invest a significant amount of their time and resources into restoring it. The pictures and illustrations helped me see the state of the structure before and after the renovations. It was enlightening to see what changes had occurred on the property since it was built. The author also helped me gain some insight into the culture and traditions that existed at the time the inn was built.

My favorite chapter would be Chapter 23, where the author describes in detail some ancient practices used for specific purposes—for example, sealing a cat skeleton or children's footwear in a building under construction to ward off any evil spirits. There was a lot to learn from this chapter alone, and I have even made plans to start some research in my own time. The cover of the book was unique and beautiful, and it gave me a sense of what to expect from the author.

I found only one error, meaning the book was professionally edited. It would be a shame not to point out the author's use of proper vocabulary concerning professional building and repairs, which shows proof of research and expertise. I appreciate the author's use of simple grammar to ensure that there is no confusion for the readers. The detailed directions to the inn placed at the beginning of the book are also an excellent addition for anyone who wishes to visit the structure. Christine combined unique information and enough personal details to form an invaluable and well-documented piece that proved to be quite educational.

I only discovered one negative aspect while reading this book. The length was excessive, preventing me from completing it in a single sitting. I understand the author needed to include specific details about the construction, but she could have done that and still made the book size smaller. As a result of the numerous positive reasons listed above, I will not hesitate to give this book a perfect five out of five stars rating. I believe the author wrote this book to enlighten people about her experience with a historical landmark and her family's sacrifices to restore it. I recommend it to anyone interested in historical research and locations, especially in Australia.

******
Collits' Inn: Uncovering the Past
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Post Reply

Return to “Non-Fiction Books”