"Melbourne" by Sophie Cunningham is one of series of books covering the history, ambience and culture of some of Australia's major cities. Each book has a slightly different feel, determined by the author's perspective and history within their city. The original version of this book was written after the Black Saturday Fires and was published in 2011. This update includes a new forward by the author. Cunningham describes her life and upbringing in Melbourne's inner-city suburbs (think Carlton, Fitzroy and alike) and adventures out to Monash University at Clayton. She examines politics, First Nation history, architecture, the environment, AFL the arts, and most importantly the cities contribution to writing and publishing. Her book is set out across a year, season by season - the changing weather being a feature of Melbourne. As a relative newcomer to the city (my 16th year) I was enthralled by the history, background and hidden secrets of the place I now call home. I had previously read the Adelaide and Brisbane books in the series and have enjoyed them all for different reasons. A great read for Melbournians and history buffs. ( )