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Diary of a Shy Backpacker: Awakening Down Under
"A saucy, fun, entertaining read which perfectly captures the backpacking experience." (Review, Amazon Aus)
If you are looking for an entertaining, witty, romantic, and sometimes smutty holiday read … why not try this one? The author’s debut novel, and the first of a series of the adventures of a shy backpacker … this might just be for you.
Back cover description
Graduating from Oxford had promised to set him up for life. BJ should now be starting a rewarding and lucrative career, and living the high-life, surrounded by wonderful friends. He should be settling down with the girl of his dreams for a life of enduring love and fantastic sex. Where had that promise gone?
Instead, BJ is back living in the parental home, is unemployed and isolated from his friends. His love-life is a barren wasteland, and his prospects look bleak. BJ is bored, restless, disillusioned, frustrated, suffocated.
After reaching a dead-end in his pursuit of environmental jobs, BJ changes direction. With his head over-ruling his heart, he secures a professional training contract with a big City firm ... a safe and respectable career now lies ahead. F**k it! ... thinks BJ, as he buys an air ticket to Darwin, Australia. He feels the urge to go walkabout.
The story is loosely based around the author’s own adventures exploring Australia’s outback and East Coast. Awakening Down Under is the first part of BJ’s travel diary as the Shy Backpacker, in which excitement, hope, desire, and disappointment, dominate BJ’s thoughts and actions as he searches for something better on the far side of the world … if only he knew what he was looking for.
If you are looking for an entertaining, witty, romantic, and sometimes smutty holiday read … why not try this one? The author’s debut novel, and the first of a series of the adventures of a shy backpacker … this might just be for you.
Back cover description
Graduating from Oxford had promised to set him up for life. BJ should now be starting a rewarding and lucrative career, and living the high-life, surrounded by wonderful friends. He should be settling down with the girl of his dreams for a life of enduring love and fantastic sex. Where had that promise gone?
Instead, BJ is back living in the parental home, is unemployed and isolated from his friends. His love-life is a barren wasteland, and his prospects look bleak. BJ is bored, restless, disillusioned, frustrated, suffocated.
After reaching a dead-end in his pursuit of environmental jobs, BJ changes direction. With his head over-ruling his heart, he secures a professional training contract with a big City firm ... a safe and respectable career now lies ahead. F**k it! ... thinks BJ, as he buys an air ticket to Darwin, Australia. He feels the urge to go walkabout.
The story is loosely based around the author’s own adventures exploring Australia’s outback and East Coast. Awakening Down Under is the first part of BJ’s travel diary as the Shy Backpacker, in which excitement, hope, desire, and disappointment, dominate BJ’s thoughts and actions as he searches for something better on the far side of the world … if only he knew what he was looking for.
- GenresTravel
340 pages, Paperback
Published June 7, 2020
8 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Bruce Spydar
11 books40 followersBruce Spydar used to wear a suit, work in an office, and get paid to lead teams of staff working for international nature conservation. Today he possesses no suit that fits, has no office nor staff, and he doesn’t get paid … although he still volunteers in support of nature.
For the last few years, Bruce has thrown himself into writing. Perhaps it’s a last-ditch attempt to harness his creativity, before his brain turns to mush. On many an afternoon he can be spotted gazing out of an upstairs window of his house near Cambridge, searching for inspiration.
Bruce describes himself as writing with a kind heart and a naughty mind. Personal experience has taught him that everyday life is rather full of struggles, and that happiness and laughter are too often in short supply. It’s why he now chooses to focus his creativity towards sharing his humour and positivity.
Humorous fiction:
Educating BJ
Educating BJ is a rose-tinted (or tainted) portrait of undergraduate life; a commoner’s experience of fun, friendships, and frustration. Spun from real-life events, and as factual as any government record, Educating BJ is my story … and I hope you enjoy it.
The Shy Backpacker series
Diary of a Shy Backpacker is a naughty travel romcom; a series of the adventures of a young man trying to make some sense of his life during his gap year travels. It is life-based fiction expanding from some of the author’s own adventures decades ago. Part 1: Awakening Down Under is set in Australia, Part 2: Eye on the Prize moves to New Zealand, and in Part 3: No Looking Back, BJ, the main character is crossing Canada.
Refining My Dining is a deliciously s3xy romcom, in which the world is seen through the eyes of Megan Turner. It’s a standalone tale, but if you’ve read Diary of a Shy Backpacker, you’ll have met her before.
Caution: Adults only - contains tasty language and scenes of a sexual nature.
Non-Fiction: Self-help
Unboxing: The ART of Happiness ... is for anyone seeking to re-boot their positivity. Simple, practical, and positive, the book combines life experience, logic, and basic psychology to show how we can feel happier and more resilient in everyday life. The ART of Happiness is the tool of a positive mind, and Unboxing reveals how to use it.
Spydar’s Web: How to Capture Happiness ... is aimed towards encouragement of positive thinking and improvement of our happiness and well-being. The SPIDER model is a simple visual tool that can be an effective prompt for promoting many of the things we know enhance our own happiness, and discouraging us from falling into bad habits.
Bruce continues to write … and you can follow him on Instagram (@brucespydar).
For the last few years, Bruce has thrown himself into writing. Perhaps it’s a last-ditch attempt to harness his creativity, before his brain turns to mush. On many an afternoon he can be spotted gazing out of an upstairs window of his house near Cambridge, searching for inspiration.
Bruce describes himself as writing with a kind heart and a naughty mind. Personal experience has taught him that everyday life is rather full of struggles, and that happiness and laughter are too often in short supply. It’s why he now chooses to focus his creativity towards sharing his humour and positivity.
Humorous fiction:
Educating BJ
Educating BJ is a rose-tinted (or tainted) portrait of undergraduate life; a commoner’s experience of fun, friendships, and frustration. Spun from real-life events, and as factual as any government record, Educating BJ is my story … and I hope you enjoy it.
The Shy Backpacker series
Diary of a Shy Backpacker is a naughty travel romcom; a series of the adventures of a young man trying to make some sense of his life during his gap year travels. It is life-based fiction expanding from some of the author’s own adventures decades ago. Part 1: Awakening Down Under is set in Australia, Part 2: Eye on the Prize moves to New Zealand, and in Part 3: No Looking Back, BJ, the main character is crossing Canada.
Refining My Dining is a deliciously s3xy romcom, in which the world is seen through the eyes of Megan Turner. It’s a standalone tale, but if you’ve read Diary of a Shy Backpacker, you’ll have met her before.
Caution: Adults only - contains tasty language and scenes of a sexual nature.
Non-Fiction: Self-help
Unboxing: The ART of Happiness ... is for anyone seeking to re-boot their positivity. Simple, practical, and positive, the book combines life experience, logic, and basic psychology to show how we can feel happier and more resilient in everyday life. The ART of Happiness is the tool of a positive mind, and Unboxing reveals how to use it.
Spydar’s Web: How to Capture Happiness ... is aimed towards encouragement of positive thinking and improvement of our happiness and well-being. The SPIDER model is a simple visual tool that can be an effective prompt for promoting many of the things we know enhance our own happiness, and discouraging us from falling into bad habits.
Bruce continues to write … and you can follow him on Instagram (@brucespydar).
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 11, 2020
This isn't a genre i would have normally picked, but I'm so glad I did. I felt like i was backpacking right along with Bruce. It was funny, and kept my attention the whole way through. I love the added love interests, and I'm dying to know what happens in the next one.
March 21, 2021
Not my thing and I still loved it...
Great read. I was really rooting for young Bruce to get the girl, and I'll definitely read the next to find out if he did.
The main take away here, was that this was a genre I normally wouldn't ready, like ever, but the righting was good enough, and the story was engaging enough, that I never tried to skim or even think about DNF'ing. Kudos to the author for that.
I would definitely recommend, especially if you like this travelogues or romance.
Great read. I was really rooting for young Bruce to get the girl, and I'll definitely read the next to find out if he did.
The main take away here, was that this was a genre I normally wouldn't ready, like ever, but the righting was good enough, and the story was engaging enough, that I never tried to skim or even think about DNF'ing. Kudos to the author for that.
I would definitely recommend, especially if you like this travelogues or romance.
November 12, 2020
The Diary of a Shy Backpacker tells the story of BJ, an introverted young man who goes backpacking around Australia in the days before the internet. BJ is (very) frustrated in a sexual sense and thinks about what he would prefer to be getting up to on a regular basis.
I don't normally read books from this genre (I'm not even sure how I would classify this book tbh!) but it's the year 2020 and I was due to go Tasmania and Sydney for a holiday (if you're reading this in the future, feel free to take the time to google the year 2020!). When that didn't happen I thought I'd at the very least read a book set in my planned holiday destination. Boy was I glad I did.
Diary of a Shy Backpacker is well written and humorous. The description of the different locations are rich enough that you get a real sense of the place. However, they're not so much that you're wading through reams and reams of tedious detail. BJ is sometimes a little coarse for my delicate sensibilities (Ha! They are not that delicate and BJ is a hoot!!) but I found him to be really engaging because he's real . By that, I mean that he isn't an overly confident alpha male who's been there, seen that and got the t-shirt. It made a refreshing and interesting changes to read a book in which male insecurities and emotions were explored.
Roll on book two when BJ explores New Zealand, which is somewhere I've always wanted to go!
I don't normally read books from this genre (I'm not even sure how I would classify this book tbh!) but it's the year 2020 and I was due to go Tasmania and Sydney for a holiday (if you're reading this in the future, feel free to take the time to google the year 2020!). When that didn't happen I thought I'd at the very least read a book set in my planned holiday destination. Boy was I glad I did.
Diary of a Shy Backpacker is well written and humorous. The description of the different locations are rich enough that you get a real sense of the place. However, they're not so much that you're wading through reams and reams of tedious detail. BJ is sometimes a little coarse for my delicate sensibilities (Ha! They are not that delicate and BJ is a hoot!!) but I found him to be really engaging because he's real . By that, I mean that he isn't an overly confident alpha male who's been there, seen that and got the t-shirt. It made a refreshing and interesting changes to read a book in which male insecurities and emotions were explored.
Roll on book two when BJ explores New Zealand, which is somewhere I've always wanted to go!
September 19, 2020
MY REVIEW 5/5 STARS
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
18+ language and sexual content.
Although this is not my genre of book to read or write, I would recommend this book especially to men, due to the content being more geared towards male interests.
This book was exceptionally easy to read with 310 pages. The grammar is excellent. It is quite funny. It is more of a journal and less of a novel. It is about a young man named BJ who decides to backpack through Australia. He finds that after finishing university, jobs don't come as easily as he had hoped. He thinks of himself as shy and a bit introvert. However, that just might change for him on his journey. I would suggest you read to find out. I particularly enjoyed the references to music. INXS being one of my favorites from the time. Bravo Bruce Spydar!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
18+ language and sexual content.
Although this is not my genre of book to read or write, I would recommend this book especially to men, due to the content being more geared towards male interests.
This book was exceptionally easy to read with 310 pages. The grammar is excellent. It is quite funny. It is more of a journal and less of a novel. It is about a young man named BJ who decides to backpack through Australia. He finds that after finishing university, jobs don't come as easily as he had hoped. He thinks of himself as shy and a bit introvert. However, that just might change for him on his journey. I would suggest you read to find out. I particularly enjoyed the references to music. INXS being one of my favorites from the time. Bravo Bruce Spydar!
November 13, 2020
Diary of a shy backpacker - awakening down-under
I really enjoyed this quirky cross-genre travelogue/personal memoir. Full of tongue in cheek, self deprecating humour as we enjoy the commentary of twenty something BJ on life, women and everything. It’s rich in detail and description of Australia’s beautiful scenery and landmarks. Well worth reading.
I really enjoyed this quirky cross-genre travelogue/personal memoir. Full of tongue in cheek, self deprecating humour as we enjoy the commentary of twenty something BJ on life, women and everything. It’s rich in detail and description of Australia’s beautiful scenery and landmarks. Well worth reading.
January 7, 2021
Synopsis: BJ is a young, shy, 23-year-old lad from the UK trying to figure himself out. He comes from a supportive family, two loving parents, and has his career lined up. However, he can’t help but feel depressed, alone, and needing more out of life. To kick himself out of his stump BJ embarks on a backpacking journey around Australia, alone. Side note: the year is 1992 so he’s backpacking without technology. During his journey, his eyes are opened to the wonders of the world down under, especially the women.
The Good: I was super excited to receive my book and see what all the hype was about. It received so many amazing reviews. It did not disappoint! The book is very well written with each chapter detailing BJ’s inner thoughts and actions as he travels around Australia meeting new people and making vital decisions. When he initially left the UK he didn’t have any ladies in his life other than his best friend (which doesn’t count). In Australia, he was a “snack” on every girl’s menu.
The Bad: Although beautifully written the book does drag a bit. However, I blame that on me. I am an eager reader. Bj’s story is so captivating that I needed to know everything, minus him stopping for coffee. But in many aspects, it did help me be in the scene with BJ, and see the things he found most fascinating.
The Ugly: In the beginning, it was sad to hear about BJ’s depression and shyness. However, he turned himself around during his journey, it was refreshing to see. BJ often referred to himself as being an “English gentleman.” HAHA! When you read the things BJ has done. Then he is my kind of gentleman!
Overall: I rate this book a 5 star out of 5.
Bruce Spydar takes you on a wonderful journey through Australia mixed with humor, romance, and beautiful scenery. I can’t wait to follow BJ to his next adventure through New Zealand in Diary of a Shy backpacker 2, Eye on the Prize. I highly recommend this book!
The Good: I was super excited to receive my book and see what all the hype was about. It received so many amazing reviews. It did not disappoint! The book is very well written with each chapter detailing BJ’s inner thoughts and actions as he travels around Australia meeting new people and making vital decisions. When he initially left the UK he didn’t have any ladies in his life other than his best friend (which doesn’t count). In Australia, he was a “snack” on every girl’s menu.
The Bad: Although beautifully written the book does drag a bit. However, I blame that on me. I am an eager reader. Bj’s story is so captivating that I needed to know everything, minus him stopping for coffee. But in many aspects, it did help me be in the scene with BJ, and see the things he found most fascinating.
The Ugly: In the beginning, it was sad to hear about BJ’s depression and shyness. However, he turned himself around during his journey, it was refreshing to see. BJ often referred to himself as being an “English gentleman.” HAHA! When you read the things BJ has done. Then he is my kind of gentleman!
Overall: I rate this book a 5 star out of 5.
Bruce Spydar takes you on a wonderful journey through Australia mixed with humor, romance, and beautiful scenery. I can’t wait to follow BJ to his next adventure through New Zealand in Diary of a Shy backpacker 2, Eye on the Prize. I highly recommend this book!
February 25, 2021
Diary of a Shy Backpacker: Awakening Down Under is jam-packed fun!
Nothing like an adventure Down Under to aid in stepping outside of shyness and shedding off some inhibitions. This is key to broadening experiences including scaling great heights to bring breathtaking scenery into view and a bit of romance too.
Many miles are covered on a quip filled, sometimes bumpy journey to find a soul mate. Many hours spent agonizing over whether or not ‘the one’ has already been found. And the answer to that is what kept me journeying along.
Bruce Spydar's candor is extremely refreshing!
Nothing like an adventure Down Under to aid in stepping outside of shyness and shedding off some inhibitions. This is key to broadening experiences including scaling great heights to bring breathtaking scenery into view and a bit of romance too.
Many miles are covered on a quip filled, sometimes bumpy journey to find a soul mate. Many hours spent agonizing over whether or not ‘the one’ has already been found. And the answer to that is what kept me journeying along.
Bruce Spydar's candor is extremely refreshing!
June 16, 2021
I love true stories and this tells the story or the diary of a man on a voyage of self-discovery.
From entertaining moments to brutal honesty, it's a good read.
Gives a nice insight into Australia too and how immense and beautiful it is there.
Best read by the over 18's due to some of the content but it's all lighthearted fun and frolics for this author on his travels.
Well done.
From entertaining moments to brutal honesty, it's a good read.
Gives a nice insight into Australia too and how immense and beautiful it is there.
Best read by the over 18's due to some of the content but it's all lighthearted fun and frolics for this author on his travels.
Well done.
February 3, 2022
While a spicy travelogue isn't something I would normally read, I really enjoyed Awakening Down Under.
Whether it's one of the many beautiful places BJ visits along his journey, or his raunchy thoughts, Bruce Spydar has a knack for painting a scene.
The people that pop in and out of BJ's life as he travels Australia are extremely well written and all feel like genuine people. Some that are only around for a few pages still manage to stick with you. It's the things like this that make a good story that much better.
If you've never read this type of genre and you're uncertain if you'd like it, I'd say this is a solid introduction. I'm looking forward to checking out the other books in the Diary of a Shy Backpacker series!
Whether it's one of the many beautiful places BJ visits along his journey, or his raunchy thoughts, Bruce Spydar has a knack for painting a scene.
The people that pop in and out of BJ's life as he travels Australia are extremely well written and all feel like genuine people. Some that are only around for a few pages still manage to stick with you. It's the things like this that make a good story that much better.
If you've never read this type of genre and you're uncertain if you'd like it, I'd say this is a solid introduction. I'm looking forward to checking out the other books in the Diary of a Shy Backpacker series!
May 26, 2021
This novel is refreshingly honest. Let's face it; a young lad fresh out of uni has certain thoughts and these are well documented in this novel.
Bruce has been rather unlucky in lust thus far. But as he journeys around the wonders of Australia (in the time before The Internet!), he discovers a few young ladies too.
This book highlights the immense size of Australia - how varied, how long bus journeys take and how beautiful.
I felt like I was on the journey too, which was a marvellous escape in this time of lockdown. And I really wanted BJ to get laid!?
A fun read with many dirty thoughts.
Bruce has been rather unlucky in lust thus far. But as he journeys around the wonders of Australia (in the time before The Internet!), he discovers a few young ladies too.
This book highlights the immense size of Australia - how varied, how long bus journeys take and how beautiful.
I felt like I was on the journey too, which was a marvellous escape in this time of lockdown. And I really wanted BJ to get laid!?
A fun read with many dirty thoughts.
August 30, 2020
This book was brought to my attention through a recommendation on social media and once I read the synopsis I knew I had to give it a read. Having backpacked Australia myself as a nineteen year old I couldn’t wait to reminisce. It’s an easy light read, perfect for bedtime or by the poolside. A kind of rom-com meets memoir told through a travel diary.
The story is written from the perspective of BJ, a shy self-deprecating British twenty something year old who sets out on his antipodean adventure hoping to find fun, sun and... the love of his life. He quickly realises he really doesn't know what he wants from life and the story follows his journey of self discovery as he explores the beautiful Australian landscape and its inhabitants.
The author perfectly captures the backpacking experience and the angst of keeping in touch with love interests pre mobile phones or social media. The humour throughout is thoroughly British and I would best describe it as similar to that of a Carry on Film or On the Buses, it’s saucy and silly in the best possible way. I gave this book five stars because it not only transported me back in time but kept me entertained throughout. It’s a great debut and I can’t wait to read more of BJ’s global adventures.
The story is written from the perspective of BJ, a shy self-deprecating British twenty something year old who sets out on his antipodean adventure hoping to find fun, sun and... the love of his life. He quickly realises he really doesn't know what he wants from life and the story follows his journey of self discovery as he explores the beautiful Australian landscape and its inhabitants.
The author perfectly captures the backpacking experience and the angst of keeping in touch with love interests pre mobile phones or social media. The humour throughout is thoroughly British and I would best describe it as similar to that of a Carry on Film or On the Buses, it’s saucy and silly in the best possible way. I gave this book five stars because it not only transported me back in time but kept me entertained throughout. It’s a great debut and I can’t wait to read more of BJ’s global adventures.
January 28, 2022
Inside the Naughty Mind of a Traveling Shy Guy
If you’ve ever wanted to strap on a backpack and blast off to a faraway place for an adventure, then book one in the Shy Backpacker series is a “must read” for you! And if you’ve ever wondered what naughty thoughts might be floating through the mind of the nice guy you just met, Diary of a Shy Backpacker: Awakening Down Under is *definitely* for you.
Author Bruce Spydar has earned a cult-like following on social media for a reason: He knows how to be sexy, sweet, and saucy without being offensive. Bruce’s (aka BJ) fascination with a handful of women – okay, more than a handful – he meets during his tour of eastern Australia will have you eagerly anticipating each leg of the journey. Will he, or won’t he? And who will be the lucky lady making time “down under” with the tall, lanky British guy?
While there are certainly some steamy moments inserted between the pages (much praise given by this reader for the movie theater scene), the author also deftly conveys the remarkable landscape of the places he visited in Australia. His appreciation for the land and the people comes through with awe and affection. We witness his wonder through visits to the termite mounds in Kakadu; rafting over the wild waters of the Barron River; and snorkeling with butterflies and angels – of the fishy kind – along a colorful coral reef off the coast of Cairns. Spydar brings to life the scenery he walked, hiked, and rode through. If you love to travel and Australia is one of your dream destinations, reading this book will only make you want to visit Oz even more.
Along the way we learn more about the man: Bruce’s understandable reluctance to embrace a predictably humdrum life following college; his musings on what kind of woman he wants when building a future; and his fascination with the Cricket World Cup. (If I could give an extra star for Bruce’s additional interest in the Buffalo Bills and Super Bowl XXV, I would.)
Bruce never claims to be superhuman, but throughout his journey he reveals how beautifully human he really is. We like him. We want good things to happen to him.
The cast of “characters” weaving in and out of Bruce’s path are often loveable. The hostels he stayed in along the way were fertile breeding grounds for all sorts of interesting travelers. Spydar drops in fun anecdotes along the way – like the German woman taking a young couple to task for romping through the night while she and Bruce tried to sleep in the bunkbeds next to them.
The ending was incredibly satisfying. After chapters of teasing and wild fantasies, the reader gets the opportunity to sit back and bathe in the afterglow of Bruce’s grand adventure as this first installment in the Shy Backpacker series comes to a close.
And finally, one of the most pleasurable aspects of this book for me personally, is that it lives up to its excellent reputation. Author Bruce Spydar delivers the goods: engaging writing; a deep appreciation for the world beyond his back yard; and more than a tingle of pleasure. Well-done, Mr. Spydar.
If you’ve ever wanted to strap on a backpack and blast off to a faraway place for an adventure, then book one in the Shy Backpacker series is a “must read” for you! And if you’ve ever wondered what naughty thoughts might be floating through the mind of the nice guy you just met, Diary of a Shy Backpacker: Awakening Down Under is *definitely* for you.
Author Bruce Spydar has earned a cult-like following on social media for a reason: He knows how to be sexy, sweet, and saucy without being offensive. Bruce’s (aka BJ) fascination with a handful of women – okay, more than a handful – he meets during his tour of eastern Australia will have you eagerly anticipating each leg of the journey. Will he, or won’t he? And who will be the lucky lady making time “down under” with the tall, lanky British guy?
While there are certainly some steamy moments inserted between the pages (much praise given by this reader for the movie theater scene), the author also deftly conveys the remarkable landscape of the places he visited in Australia. His appreciation for the land and the people comes through with awe and affection. We witness his wonder through visits to the termite mounds in Kakadu; rafting over the wild waters of the Barron River; and snorkeling with butterflies and angels – of the fishy kind – along a colorful coral reef off the coast of Cairns. Spydar brings to life the scenery he walked, hiked, and rode through. If you love to travel and Australia is one of your dream destinations, reading this book will only make you want to visit Oz even more.
Along the way we learn more about the man: Bruce’s understandable reluctance to embrace a predictably humdrum life following college; his musings on what kind of woman he wants when building a future; and his fascination with the Cricket World Cup. (If I could give an extra star for Bruce’s additional interest in the Buffalo Bills and Super Bowl XXV, I would.)
Bruce never claims to be superhuman, but throughout his journey he reveals how beautifully human he really is. We like him. We want good things to happen to him.
The cast of “characters” weaving in and out of Bruce’s path are often loveable. The hostels he stayed in along the way were fertile breeding grounds for all sorts of interesting travelers. Spydar drops in fun anecdotes along the way – like the German woman taking a young couple to task for romping through the night while she and Bruce tried to sleep in the bunkbeds next to them.
The ending was incredibly satisfying. After chapters of teasing and wild fantasies, the reader gets the opportunity to sit back and bathe in the afterglow of Bruce’s grand adventure as this first installment in the Shy Backpacker series comes to a close.
And finally, one of the most pleasurable aspects of this book for me personally, is that it lives up to its excellent reputation. Author Bruce Spydar delivers the goods: engaging writing; a deep appreciation for the world beyond his back yard; and more than a tingle of pleasure. Well-done, Mr. Spydar.
February 26, 2025
Good book, good title, although author Bruce Spydar might equally have gone with The Landscape of My Libido, which might arguably have sold more copies. Because while introvert BJ—the eponymous shy backpacker—tours the major sites of Australia, he’s at the same time examining his own desires and looking to make connections—hopefully physical—with the young women he encounters, be they fellow tourists or locals. Thus, while getting on top of Uluru, ascending Sydney Harbour Bridge, entering the Ettamogah pub, eating barbie and drinking beer, he’d be more than happy to be mounting Megan, scaling Suzanne, ascending Elaine or jumping Jeannie. He’s simultaneously exploring the Aussie outback and the landscape of his interior emotions—and while the former is yielding rich rewards, the latter is a bleak and barren place. Or is it? I don’t know if either BJ or Jeannie have encountered the ‘feelies’ of Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, but their cinematic activities aren’t that dissimilar.
Being serious, this semi-autobiographical story charts the months between graduation and the commencement of a collar-and-tie city career for BJ, increasingly unsure about the future mapped-out for him and the freedom to be found by donning a backpack and heading off into the wild blue yonder of the Australian outback. It’s refreshing to read about the doubts and insecurities of a young man not well-bestowed by Nature in the looks department, with the resulting consequences of him being obsessed with the birds and the bees—to put it into language that won’t offend. Speaking of which, BJ’s own vocabulary can be a little—extrovert, shall we say—but then again he’s a young man with hormones raging and no outlet. Even if he can’t walk the walk he can at least talk the talk, as it were—but the more free-and-easy attitude of the girls he encounters on his walkabout mean he gets to take several steps in the right direction.
It's a well-constructed text, in which author Bruce Spydar has skilfully woven together a diary and a travelogue—to be continued in the next book, Eye on the Prize. Oh, and did I mention that there’s cricket too? A recommended read.
Being serious, this semi-autobiographical story charts the months between graduation and the commencement of a collar-and-tie city career for BJ, increasingly unsure about the future mapped-out for him and the freedom to be found by donning a backpack and heading off into the wild blue yonder of the Australian outback. It’s refreshing to read about the doubts and insecurities of a young man not well-bestowed by Nature in the looks department, with the resulting consequences of him being obsessed with the birds and the bees—to put it into language that won’t offend. Speaking of which, BJ’s own vocabulary can be a little—extrovert, shall we say—but then again he’s a young man with hormones raging and no outlet. Even if he can’t walk the walk he can at least talk the talk, as it were—but the more free-and-easy attitude of the girls he encounters on his walkabout mean he gets to take several steps in the right direction.
It's a well-constructed text, in which author Bruce Spydar has skilfully woven together a diary and a travelogue—to be continued in the next book, Eye on the Prize. Oh, and did I mention that there’s cricket too? A recommended read.
November 13, 2020
Set in the days of film cameras, Midnight Oil, and traveling abroad without a cell phone, Bruce leaves England for Australia.
With the nickname, “BJ” (potentially eyebrow raising under ordinary circumstances, especially amusing under these ones), a self-proclaimed shy backpacker sets out in search of adventure, self-discovery and, hopefully, romance.
For those like me whose knowledge of Australia is largely limited to unfortunate chain restaurants in strip malls, this book was not only a delightful read with a lot of laughs, but an education as well. As the title suggests, the narrative is a hybrid—part travelogue, part personal journal—and because BJ is an aspiring zoologist, readers are given a keen and informed view of the Australian landscape—its vast terrain, its towns, and its wildlife…especially its humans.
I wouldn’t fault any readers who might want the story’s pacing to be a bit faster in some parts, as there are some passages that could’ve been cut without sacrificing too much. But I wasn’t feeling a rush to get anywhere else while reading this book. Not only did I appreciate the introspective nature of it (expressed through BJ thinking very candidly out loud), I enjoyed BJ’s written voice as my guide. I'll definitely read the sequel.
With the nickname, “BJ” (potentially eyebrow raising under ordinary circumstances, especially amusing under these ones), a self-proclaimed shy backpacker sets out in search of adventure, self-discovery and, hopefully, romance.
For those like me whose knowledge of Australia is largely limited to unfortunate chain restaurants in strip malls, this book was not only a delightful read with a lot of laughs, but an education as well. As the title suggests, the narrative is a hybrid—part travelogue, part personal journal—and because BJ is an aspiring zoologist, readers are given a keen and informed view of the Australian landscape—its vast terrain, its towns, and its wildlife…especially its humans.
I wouldn’t fault any readers who might want the story’s pacing to be a bit faster in some parts, as there are some passages that could’ve been cut without sacrificing too much. But I wasn’t feeling a rush to get anywhere else while reading this book. Not only did I appreciate the introspective nature of it (expressed through BJ thinking very candidly out loud), I enjoyed BJ’s written voice as my guide. I'll definitely read the sequel.
December 30, 2020
A fantastic, funny read!
I felt like I got a free trip to Australia with this book. It is so beautifully written and carefully crafted that as a reader, you get taken along on the journey. And what a journey it is!
BJ shares all of his thoughts, feelings, worries and sexual cravings with you as he travels round Australia. It is really well written, having an almost poetic tone in some places and is realistic and honest in others.
As a reader, you can easily relate to the character of BJ with his insecurities towards relationships and his inability to be spontaneous. There’s lessons we can all learn from him (maybe without making the same mistakes ourselves!)
Took me a while to read because of work, child and Christmas but, on reflection, this was a good thing; it’s almost as if I’ve enjoyed a holiday through lockdown and the world of tiers.
So it’s been a real escape for me when I needed it most. A fantastic, funny read. I already have the second instalment and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in.
Highly recommended.
I felt like I got a free trip to Australia with this book. It is so beautifully written and carefully crafted that as a reader, you get taken along on the journey. And what a journey it is!
BJ shares all of his thoughts, feelings, worries and sexual cravings with you as he travels round Australia. It is really well written, having an almost poetic tone in some places and is realistic and honest in others.
As a reader, you can easily relate to the character of BJ with his insecurities towards relationships and his inability to be spontaneous. There’s lessons we can all learn from him (maybe without making the same mistakes ourselves!)
Took me a while to read because of work, child and Christmas but, on reflection, this was a good thing; it’s almost as if I’ve enjoyed a holiday through lockdown and the world of tiers.
So it’s been a real escape for me when I needed it most. A fantastic, funny read. I already have the second instalment and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in.
Highly recommended.
March 6, 2021
A joyful romp...
This is 100% outside of my normal reads, so I was really excited when it was chosen as the BOTM in my book club, Self-Published Only Club.
This is a fun, travelogue based on the real travels of the author, and while I was expecting to be bored, I was anything but. Bruce isn't like a lot of guys, full of himself and raging. Instead, I found his inner thoughts refreshing. His shyness, coupled with his want to find love wasn't at all what I was expecting.
On top of the search for love, this book was teaming with interesting tid-bits from Bruce's travels through Australia. I had to google a few terminology, but for the most part, that was simply due to cultural differences and not at any fault of the author.
I highly recommend this book, even if you think a Travelogue isn't for you.
I gave it 4.5 stars, but rounded up for review purposes, and I'll definitely be reading book #2.
This is 100% outside of my normal reads, so I was really excited when it was chosen as the BOTM in my book club, Self-Published Only Club.
This is a fun, travelogue based on the real travels of the author, and while I was expecting to be bored, I was anything but. Bruce isn't like a lot of guys, full of himself and raging. Instead, I found his inner thoughts refreshing. His shyness, coupled with his want to find love wasn't at all what I was expecting.
On top of the search for love, this book was teaming with interesting tid-bits from Bruce's travels through Australia. I had to google a few terminology, but for the most part, that was simply due to cultural differences and not at any fault of the author.
I highly recommend this book, even if you think a Travelogue isn't for you.
I gave it 4.5 stars, but rounded up for review purposes, and I'll definitely be reading book #2.
May 14, 2021
A light-hearted and comedic voyage of discovery by Bruce Spydar - which I strongly suspect is mostly based on fact – that follows the exploits of young British backpacker BJ and his adventures in a land Down Under. A typical British bloke with beer and sex on the brain, BJ recounts his journey around Australia with a dryly deprecating wit that is both touching and starkly honest.
With chuckle out loud moments and instances of relatability that had me nodding in recognition, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It reminded me of Bill Bryson’s book “Notes from a Small Island” with the hero’s insights and comments on a culture that is so like his own in many ways but has differences that leap up to flummox poor BJ.
As someone who finds cricket intensely boring, I’m afraid I did skip the blow-by-blow account of a cricket match – but I’m sure many would enjoy it – and it was only a few pages long so didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story at all.
Well written in a matter-of-fact style that suits its “Rough Guide” feel, this is a book to be read slowly and enjoyed not just for the storyline but for the interesting facts and information about Australia that the author peppers onto every page.
A solid five stars for a refreshingly different read.
With chuckle out loud moments and instances of relatability that had me nodding in recognition, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It reminded me of Bill Bryson’s book “Notes from a Small Island” with the hero’s insights and comments on a culture that is so like his own in many ways but has differences that leap up to flummox poor BJ.
As someone who finds cricket intensely boring, I’m afraid I did skip the blow-by-blow account of a cricket match – but I’m sure many would enjoy it – and it was only a few pages long so didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story at all.
Well written in a matter-of-fact style that suits its “Rough Guide” feel, this is a book to be read slowly and enjoyed not just for the storyline but for the interesting facts and information about Australia that the author peppers onto every page.
A solid five stars for a refreshingly different read.
December 9, 2020
A much needed escape!
Just when I thought I’d go mad if I spent another day stuck in my living room, I was whisked away to the Outback with Diary of a Shy Backpacker! Spydar took me on a wonderful tour of the best Australia has to offer and I had fun googling pictures of the landmarks he mentioned to use as observation points. Not only did I learn about the beauty of Australia, but I was enlightened as to the workings of a young man’s mind when eager - but not necessarily able - to sow his wild oats (sans Google images). This was an enjoyable escape with a conclusion satisfying to my romantic side.
Just when I thought I’d go mad if I spent another day stuck in my living room, I was whisked away to the Outback with Diary of a Shy Backpacker! Spydar took me on a wonderful tour of the best Australia has to offer and I had fun googling pictures of the landmarks he mentioned to use as observation points. Not only did I learn about the beauty of Australia, but I was enlightened as to the workings of a young man’s mind when eager - but not necessarily able - to sow his wild oats (sans Google images). This was an enjoyable escape with a conclusion satisfying to my romantic side.
January 8, 2021
I’ve never visited Australia, but after reading Bruce Spydar’s Diary of a Shy Backpacker, I now feel as if I have! Not only is this an engaging and often-times hilarious account of young Bruce’s time Down Under, but also a journal of his travels, the wonderful descriptions of his explorations bringing Australia to life on the page.
Shy Bruce takes a courageous leap and leaves his home in England to travel to Australia. He has two goals; adventure and romance, both of which he finds, despite his shyness. Bruce’s self-deprecating humour along with the narrative of his one-track mind gave me many laughs. Girls may elude him at home, but in Australia he’s suddenly finding himself quite popular. His self-consciousness was both refreshing and moving to read in a market where the ‘ideal’ male is puffed up on ego and arrogance when it comes to romance.
Diary of a Shy Backpacker has a great balance of dialogue, description and Bruce’s inner narrative. It’s a fun, light-hearted read with a great ending. I’m curious to see how the adventure develops, so I’ll be reading the sequel!
Shy Bruce takes a courageous leap and leaves his home in England to travel to Australia. He has two goals; adventure and romance, both of which he finds, despite his shyness. Bruce’s self-deprecating humour along with the narrative of his one-track mind gave me many laughs. Girls may elude him at home, but in Australia he’s suddenly finding himself quite popular. His self-consciousness was both refreshing and moving to read in a market where the ‘ideal’ male is puffed up on ego and arrogance when it comes to romance.
Diary of a Shy Backpacker has a great balance of dialogue, description and Bruce’s inner narrative. It’s a fun, light-hearted read with a great ending. I’m curious to see how the adventure develops, so I’ll be reading the sequel!
June 7, 2021
I like travel books, especially if they are written with a sense of humour. This book was light, entertaining and captured the experiences of a young man travelling round Australia, on the lookout for love, while enjoying the sights and sounds of a vast country. I particularly enjoyed the detail of the places he visited, and seeing it from a young person’s perspective took me back to my own experiences many years ago when I was 18. Nicely written, fun and easy to read, the author has done a great job of keeping me hooked in throughout.
July 3, 2021
I knew it was a good omen when BJ’s adventure Down Under started of all days on my birthday, and it didn’t disappoint. While I have never been backpacking, it was a hoot to discover the good, bad and the ugly of experiencing the world this way; it’s a travelogue of local sites and cultural attractions, hostel life, forging lasting bonds with fellow travellers and canoodling with short-lived flings with willing ladies. While shy-guy BJ admits he’s been roaming the romantic wilderness, he has his share of lusty encounters. But what really impressed me is how he dares to fly solo and freely soak up all the experiences that come his way as he wanders this “Lonely Planet” alone. I’ll admit, I’m now hooked! On to finding my next BJ adventure!!
November 5, 2020
This is a quirky tale about BJ, a young bloke from the UK who goes on his travels to seek adventure and find love. He is a little lost in life and as the novel unfolds we learn more in regards to BJ's self discovery as he explores Australia. The author does a great job of depicting a backpackers life pre technology and uses British slapstick style humour throughout. A very entertaining read!
October 31, 2022
There's just something I adore about fictional books inspired by the author's real life. Right from Spydar's opening notes, I appreciated his candor and related much to BJ's introverted nature.
I'm not a traveller, so I found myself having so much appreciation for BJ's bravery to strike out and travel the world--long before Google Maps and cell phones--with so much unknown to be discovered. I loved the wittiness and humour sprinkled throughout and found myself eager to join BJ on every aspect of his journey, from the new locations to the emotional discoveries.
Everything about this felt fresh and unique, which is enthusiastic 5 stars from me.
I'm not a traveller, so I found myself having so much appreciation for BJ's bravery to strike out and travel the world--long before Google Maps and cell phones--with so much unknown to be discovered. I loved the wittiness and humour sprinkled throughout and found myself eager to join BJ on every aspect of his journey, from the new locations to the emotional discoveries.
Everything about this felt fresh and unique, which is enthusiastic 5 stars from me.
August 2, 2022
A fun journey to Australia
This is a unique read. It’s written in a journal style, like diary. It’s funny, it will make you laugh as you follow Bruce in his trip to the outback. It made me have a greater list of places to visit if I ever get to visit myself. Brings you back to the college days or searching for someone to love, traveling alone, and experiencing life.
This is a unique read. It’s written in a journal style, like diary. It’s funny, it will make you laugh as you follow Bruce in his trip to the outback. It made me have a greater list of places to visit if I ever get to visit myself. Brings you back to the college days or searching for someone to love, traveling alone, and experiencing life.
February 10, 2021
This was a great read. If you were ever a shy guy in school and were shy and scared of the opposite sex, this is the story for you. I could not put it down, save for having to sleep. I am on to his next one.
October 20, 2021
I really enjoyed the way in which this book was written: like a travel log of a journey BJ made the best of. As a traveler myself, I was hooked by the descriptions of the landscape; all the beautiful places and exotic creatures lurking on every page (even the cockroaches!)
I'm not a fan of BJ's thoughts on women, but I can understand where he's coming from. Being an introvert is not easy, and while struggling with your own inadequacies, you can sometimes miss out on what makes people around us special.
I'm definitely considering visiting Australia now, carrying a very good sunscreen!
I'm not a fan of BJ's thoughts on women, but I can understand where he's coming from. Being an introvert is not easy, and while struggling with your own inadequacies, you can sometimes miss out on what makes people around us special.
I'm definitely considering visiting Australia now, carrying a very good sunscreen!
June 18, 2021
Diary style
This is a quirky diary style read about a shy boy from the UK and his travels. This one. The first in the series, centres on Australia and manages to cover a great of territory. Some amusing adventures along the way.
This is a quirky diary style read about a shy boy from the UK and his travels. This one. The first in the series, centres on Australia and manages to cover a great of territory. Some amusing adventures along the way.
September 13, 2021
This book follows the Author from disillusioned, rather depressed, recent university graduate to feeling alive, traveling solo around Australia.
What struck me most about this book was the Author’s ability to be brutally honest about his own personal shortcomings and character.
I mean, his mind is constantly beating up on him. As an Extrovert myself, it was a fascinating insight into the mind and workings of a highly intelligent but shy and emotionally inexperienced young man.
Perhaps as the Author has a degree in Zoology we ought not be surprised in his passion for the natural world but he has a gift for taking an observation of the beauty of his surroundings and describing them so vividly, it’s truly as if you were there.
Sorry Australian Tourist Board but I have no need to physically visit your lovely country. I’ve closed my eyes often enough whilst reading this book to have been transported there.
As the awkward sexual encounters become more frequent so our shy backpacker grows within himself and starts to believe he can be happy and perhaps all he needed to do was leave England!!
A funny, heartfelt book which proves guys have it just as bad as us girls growing up – Some like Bruce – Had it worse!!
What struck me most about this book was the Author’s ability to be brutally honest about his own personal shortcomings and character.
I mean, his mind is constantly beating up on him. As an Extrovert myself, it was a fascinating insight into the mind and workings of a highly intelligent but shy and emotionally inexperienced young man.
Perhaps as the Author has a degree in Zoology we ought not be surprised in his passion for the natural world but he has a gift for taking an observation of the beauty of his surroundings and describing them so vividly, it’s truly as if you were there.
Sorry Australian Tourist Board but I have no need to physically visit your lovely country. I’ve closed my eyes often enough whilst reading this book to have been transported there.
As the awkward sexual encounters become more frequent so our shy backpacker grows within himself and starts to believe he can be happy and perhaps all he needed to do was leave England!!
A funny, heartfelt book which proves guys have it just as bad as us girls growing up – Some like Bruce – Had it worse!!
September 27, 2022
Bruce takes off to Australia to find the job and woman of his dreams. Fortunately for his sexual frustrations, he quickly loses interest in his job search and allows his hormones to take the lead. Along the way, he meets many eager women willing to assist him in his quest for the perfect one. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys adventurous travels.
December 17, 2020
What a great read! This book is full of silly and funny moments and I found myself laughing out loud quite often. Bruce has a way with his words that draw you in and make you feel like you are right there with him throughout his journey. It's a definite page-turner and I could not put it down! Australia has always been on my bucket list, so being able to travel there with Bruce through his words was such a pleasure!
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