I Was Only Nineteen

A powerful and moving picture book about the Vietnam War based on the unforgettable song.

“Townsville lined the footpath as we marched down to the quay. This clipping from the paper shows us young and strong and clean. And there’s me in my slouch hat, with my SLR and greens. God help me, I was only nineteen.” – Lyrics from “I Was Only Nineteen”.

John Schumann’s unforgettable lyrics about the Vietnam War are etched in our memories and into our history books. Now they’ve been warmly brought to life by one of Australia’s best-loved illustrators.

CRAIG SMITH is one of Australia’s most prolific children’s book illustrators. He has collaborated with many of Australia’s best-loved authors, such as Paul Jennings and Doug MacLeod, and illustrated books for Allen & Unwin including The Big Ball of String, The Boy Who Built the Boat, Heather Fell in the Water and Where Are You, Banana?

Allen & Unwin

I Was Only Nineteen