Charlie Lewis writes about politics for Crikey. He’s been a close observer of Tony Abbott – from his time as a Liberal Party bomb-thrower, to his face-offs with Julia Gillard, to his short “Prince Philip-themed” time as prime minister.

Now, Lewis is tracking Abbott’s political after-life: Which brings him to Sydney’s affluent Northern Beaches, and the launch of the former prime minister’s new book, Australia – A History.

The book is seen by many as Abbott’s attempt to counter a “black armband” view of our country’s history – and give a more celebratory take.

It’s part of a broader effort by Abbott to continue shaping Australia, which he does through his connections in some parts of the media and his behind-the-scenes manoeuvrings within the Liberal Party.

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