Beginning with A. D. Hope's seminal drubbing of Patrick White in 1956, this collection of book reviews chronicles Australia's colorful practice of critical invective. Some of the poundings are couched in superb argument, but most trail clouds of self-glory and dull censure, lending credibility to the usual outcry by Australian artists that they have heard enough. Enjoyable to read and laugh at, reviews of controversial books from The Female Eunuch to Dead White Males also provide vivid and incisive snapshots of Australian culture.