1. Kangaroos
2. Literary devices
3. Stories and motifs
4. Surfing
5. Visual literacy

In this picture book, Malu-Kangaroo spirit moves to the sea country from the wide lands beyond the tall tree country. There, on a beach, he encounters the first children and makes them a surfboard from a piece of wood. The children learn to balance on the board, skim across the water and ride the waves, just as people do today.

The past connects with the present in this modern Aboriginal story set on the north coast of New South Wales. Author Judith Morecroft uses simple, evocative language, sprinkled with action verbs and similes drawn from nature. The vibrant artwork is by acclaimed Aboriginal artist Bronwyn Bancroft of the Bundjalung people.

1. Cochrane, Bronwyn. Indigenous Perspective Literacy unit of work: 'Malu Kangaroo' by Bronwyn Bancroft and Judith Morecroft https://tipiac.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Malu-Kangaroo-Literacy-unit-Early-Stage-1-2017-editing-1.pdf
2. Deena, Marion and Vella, Hannah. Teacher Resource. ‘Exploring the Spirit of Australia through the Windows of Time’ (pp. 16-19) https://www.graftonpublicschool.com.au/Libweb/Stage%202%20NC%20English/Malu%20Kangaroo/The%20Spirit%20of%20Australia.doc
3. Meacham, Steve. Sydney Morning Herald. ‘Writer challenges myths of Aborigines and saltwater culture’. https://www.smh.com.au/national/writer-challenges-myths-of-aborigines-and-saltwater-culture-20111125-1nz6q.html