Parramatta Road - Dark tales, vanished icons, history and legend

Stretching from Sydney's city centre to Parramatta, some 23 kilometres away through Sydney's Inner West, Parramatta Road is far more than the busy and much-maligned thoroughfare it is today. It is one of Australia's most ancient roads - a route first carved out of the landscape by the First Nations people of the area, later transformed into a colonial track and, later, a hub of commercial, cultural and social life for the growing city.

In this book, Heather Jones from Dark Tales uncovers the remarkable Sydney History hidden under the grit and grime. Rediscover grand theatres and picture palaces, beloved milk bars, famous pubs and once bustling music venues, as well as the true crimes and people who shaped the area. Follow its transformation into a thriving retail strip, a destination for entertainment, dining and nightlife, a showcase for Art Deco entertainment, and later, Australia's answer to the great American highway lined with car dealerships, motels and drive-through diners. Find out about the pioneers and historical figures, the colourful publicans and everyday people whose lives became intertwined with one of Australia's busiest transport corridors. Learn how changing transport, trends and technology have continually reshaped the communities along its length.

Richly illustrated and meticulously researched, this is a captivating journey through the history, mystery and enduring spirit of one of Sydney's most iconic roads, including its heritage, architecture and social history. It is my love letter to Parramatta Road, and the brief has been simple: 'make me love you'.

You will never look at Parramatta Road in the same way again.