Here are some books that to assist you in planning a Tasmanian Holiday. Most of them are available from Amazon.com, don't forget to tell 'em who sent ya!
The stories by Richard Flanagan are semi-historical, so they are a good way to learn about the history while also reading a great novel. They should also give you a taste of the mood known as "Tasmanian Gothic".
Thomas' book is a must for those planning a hiking holiday in Tasmania, it gives good route descriptions and walk times. Maps referenced are usuall Tasmaps - if unavailable in stores you can buy them from the Lands Department in Hobart.
The sailing books should convince you that sailing in Tasmanian waters is not for the unitiated, but don't let them put you off ...
all
100 Walks in Tasmania
author: Thomas
isbn: 085572191X
subject: Hiking
The Sound of One Hand Clapping
author: Richard Flanagan
isbn: 0871138026
subject: General: Fiction
Cycling the Bush - 100 Rides in Tasmania
author: Sven Klinge
isbn: 0855722231
subject: Cycling
Death of a River Guide
author: Richard Flanagan
isbn: 0869143441
subject: General: Fiction
A Hard Chance: The Sydney-Hobart Race Disaster
author: Kieth Leighton
isbn: 157223282X
subject: Sailing
Fatal Storm
author: Rob Mundle
isbn: 0071356983
subject: Sailing
Knock Down: The Harrowing True Account of a Yacht Race turned Deadly
author: Martin Dugarde
isbn: 0671038788
subject: Sailing
Godforsaken Sea: Racing the World's Most Dangerous Waters
author: Derek Lundy
isbn: 1565122291
subject: Sailing
Tasmania
author: Mike Bingham
isbn: 186436338X
subject: General: Non-fiction