This collection investigates the defining experiences and personal histories of influential figures who shaped the cultural and intellectual landscape of twentieth-century Australia. Robin Hughes, a seasoned documentarian, utilizes transcripts from the Film Australia series to preserve the voices of individuals who played pivotal roles in science, literature, and aviation. By synthesizing these primary source interviews, the book provides a direct, unmediated look at the challenges and triumphs of a generation that transitioned Australia into the modern era.

This work serves as a valuable archival resource for those interested in the personal narratives behind Australian national history. The inclusion of diverse perspectives provides a comprehensive, if selective, overview of the century's most significant contributors.