Official Review: The German-Australian Called Holtermann

[Artizi]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The German-Australian Called Holtermann" by Malcolm Drinkwater.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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First things first: This book is an excellent read for history aficionados. It's incredibly well-researched and detailed, focusing on every aspect of the titular Bernhardt Holtermann and the sources the author consulted. I wouldn't recommend it for those who get easily bored with the exploration of historical figures or those who prefer fiction books. There is no adventure or fantasy to be found in these chapters, but for those who are looking for a factual non-fiction book, look no further!

The German-Australian Called Holtermann is an in-depth analysis and exploration of Bernard -or Bernhardt, as the author points out since there are conflicting accounts in regard to his name- Otto Holtermann businessman, photographer, gold miner and politician. He also was a polarizing figure with some historians criticizing him starkly, mentioning how he was at the brink of bankruptcy by the time of his death, and others -like Malcolm Drinkwater- speaking on his behalf.

I found this book to be somewhat of an exhausting read, as it focused on details for many pages at a time. The German-Australian Called Holtermann offers the reader photographs, extracts from Holtermann's journals and information granted to the author by Bernard's descendants. There are innumerable sources cited, and each chapter has an 'extra' section at the end of the book to offer the reader a more comprehensive analysis of the information provided.

The author displays an evident passion and dedication for the truth, and he offers an insight into Holtermann's family tree, the life drops he created to sell to the public, his gold mines and his legacy. In its second chapter, the reader will be able to meet Holtermann's great-grandchildren Joan, Len, Jon - Malcolm Drinkwater's main informant- and Peter, among other family members.

One of my favorite parts of the book were the pages dedicated to scrapbooking the documents, information, and photographs gathered during the author's research. The author mentions the adage that actions speak louder than words, and these pictures are proof of this.

I noticed a few grammatical errors through the text, especially regarding punctuation issues. The formatting seems off, and I feel it would benefit from being corrected by an editor to improve these issues.
Overall, The German-Australian Called Holtermann is an enjoyable read and one I would readily recommend to those interested in learning more about fascinating historical figures. Because of this, I rate it 3 out of 4 stars. I am unable to rank it any higher due to the apparent lack of professional editing.

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The German-Australian Called Holtermann
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[Fazzier]

I like how honest you are with the recommendations. I'm particularly struck by the number of things Otto Holtermann is capable of doing. However, I'm not sure I can enjoy reading this one following your insightful review. Thanks!

[kdstrack]

Looks like the author did a thorough job of researching this historical figure. I like that he includes photos and other documentation. Your review is wonderful! Thanks for the recommendation.

[Artizi]

I like how honest you are with the recommendations. I'm particularly struck by the number of things Otto Holtermann is capable of doing. However, I'm not sure I can enjoy reading this one following your insightful review. Thanks!

Thank you for your reply! It was an interesting read, but it's certainly not everyone's cup of tea.

[Artizi]

Looks like the author did a thorough job of researching this historical figure. I like that he includes photos and other documentation. Your review is wonderful! Thanks for the recommendation.

He really did, and his fascination with this historical figure is clear. Thank you so much for your kind words!

[Jaime Lync]

Great review. After reading the first paragraph, I was totally sure that this is not one for me. But thanks for sharing.

[Artizi]

Great review. After reading the first paragraph, I was totally sure that this is not one for me. But thanks for sharing.

Thanks for stopping by! Yes, this is certainly not everyone's cup of tea, but it is a great read.

[Diana Lowery]

The title of this book lacks appeal, and your review suggests that the book lives up to its name. Extensive detail on historical events sounds boring.

[Nerea]

It's amazing that the author gifted the readers with a reliable book that'll help them update their history knowledge. I like how precise you were about the book's contents. I would love to read the book, but a story without adventure and fantasy sounds boring to me. Thank you for your incredible review.

[Hiruni Bhagya 81]

Learning about this historical figure sounds interesting. So, to be both criticized and to have people speaking on behalf of him, he must have been memorable. I'm going to try this book, but I'm not sure whether I'd enjoy it. So thanks for the wonderful review.

[Artizi]

The title of this book lacks appeal, and your review suggests that the book lives up to its name. Extensive detail on historical events sounds boring.

It's definitely not everyone's cup of tea! Thanks for stopping by

[Artizi]

Learning about this historical figure sounds interesting. So, to be both criticized and to have people speaking on behalf of him, he must have been memorable. I'm going to try this book, but I'm not sure whether I'd enjoy it. So thanks for the wonderful review.

It's a fascinating read and at least you'll learn a lot about this fascinating historical figure! Thanks for stopping by.

[Charlyn Tuzon]

I think it's good to have books about prominent people in the past like these even though its audience may be limited. The author seemed thorough in his reasearch to have extra details added in the book. Great review!

[Wyland]

I like to read about remarkable historical figures. I however, don’t find much on what Bernahadt Holtermann was renowned for, except his gold mines. Just have to read, I guess. Thanks for your informative review.

[Ivana Tomaš]

I like the fact that the book offers additions including photos, different information and documents that have been collected during the author's research. I like historical books, although I do not know if I would read this one. I'm not sure whether the topic is for me and whether it would be interesting to me. But anyway, great review, thank you!