First Nations singer, Isaiah Firebrace is passionate about improving the teaching of First Nations history and communities. He believes many Australian children receive a limited education in these topics. This was the catalyst for the creation of this his first children’s book that he believes is ‘filling the gap’ in the current First Nations curriculum. It has been developed in consultation with his Elders to ensure it is culturally appropriate and truthful in its telling of the history and experience of Australia’s First Nations people. It covers twenty topics including the Dreaming, Country, Creation, ceremonies, sport especially AFL and its origins, Reconciliation and the Stolen Generations, the impact of which is still being felt today.
The language is straightforward and explanations of various often complex ideas are understandable and flow well from one to another. It includes some words from the Yorta Yorta language. Isaiah Firebrace is a Yorta Yorta man. The accompanying digital illustrations by Jaelyn Biumaiwai are boldly coloured and blend well with the large font.
This is an excellent book for sharing and leading discussions of First Nations people.
Isaiah Firebrace is a proud Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara man who grew up on the banks of the Murray River. After a childhood of hardship faced by so many in the Aboriginal community, Isaiah’s life changed completely after winning The X Factor in 2016 on his 17th birthday. In 2017 he represented Australia at Eurovision. He is also a passionate advocate for Indigenous education.
Jaelyn Biumaiwai is a self-taught illustrator. She is of Mununjali and Fijian ancestry and she has a passion for First Nations and Pasifika culture and communities and is reflected in the work she creates. Book designer Keisha Leon is a Waanyi and Kalkadoon woman who creates her designs through her connections to her identity and life.
Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander Resource
