Last night I finished reading Not Happy, John - thank you! Lately I've been feeling so depressed and frustrated with politics in this country particularly when I watch or read the news. I vote for the Greens but sometimes think what's the point of voting at all?

It's not all doom and gloom - I feel that I can do my bit in a small way through my job as a history teacher by engaging the kids in discussions about politics etc and that is definitely very rewarding.

Although I found your book depressing in places (because I feel so much anger towards Howard et al) it has inspired me to not give up so easily! One of the most useful sections of the book is the list of websites - I've just been to nothappyjohn.com and your SMH Webdiary so I will definitely visit them on a regular basis and further my education on these matters.

This reminds me that I found your section on Pauline Hanson very interesting because I am exactly the type of person who was quick to rip her apart for her racist policies (especially in light of teaching year 10s about multiculturalism and the Stolen Generations etc). But I realise I was too quick to judge... and of course the most important thing is to continue to strengthen our democracy so that Abbott and others like him cannot use money and influence to bring down political opponents.

Anyway, this is all a bit rushed and possibly convoluted and I'm sure you receive hundreds of emails a day! Thanks again for the book and thanks again for reminding me to keep a close watch and do my bit - or better yet, for reminding me to maintain the rage!!!