When expatriate novelist Nikki Gemmell had her children in London, she chose to give them Aussie citizenship over British. This is why.

Why You Are Australian is an examination of our country thirty years ago and today: all the glory of its sun and water - and all the darkness of tall poppies and Cronulla. How does our land look from way over there, and from right up close? A treatise about what it means to be Australian right now.

Honest, moving, provocative, uplifting - an exile's story, a mother's story, an Australian's story.

Why You Are Australian: for anyone who needs reminding.

'Achingly I want you to know what it is to be Aussie kids. Where playing barefoot is a signifier of freedom not impoverishment. Where a backyard's a given not a luxury. Where sunshine and fresh food grow children tall. Where you know what a rash shirt is and a nipper, a Paddle Pop and a Boogie Board.'