To promote a conversation between generations, we asked young writers from around the country to pen profiles of ordinary and elderly Australians they find inspirational. The response was staggering in its enthusiasm and we have selected fifteen exceptional profiles to include in this book. Young writers, ranging from celebrated Australian/Vogel award-winning novelist Danielle Wood to fourteen-year-old schoolboy Nicholas Dyer, have shared extraordinary tales that might otherwise be lost. The stories are accompanied by beautiful black-and-white portraits by renowned photographer Oliver Strewe. Evocative and engaging, these profiles reveal much about young and old Australians, and provide a compelling reminder for us all to listen while we can.