‘Walking in Gagudju Country : Exploring the Monsoon Forest’ by Diane Lucas and Ben Tyler, a Bininj entrepreneur, and illustrated by Emma Long is a stunning picture book experience that immerses the reader into the richness of the Gagudju area. In the notes for readers at the beginning of the book, it is stated that another word for Gagudju is ‘Kakadu’ and that the monsoon forest in the story is the Kakadu National Park.
This story begins with the enticing premise that walking through country, specifically the shady monsoon forest, means being open to a myriad of possibilities that could be experienced and to be prepared for anything. This adds to the beauty and wonder of the sensory exploration. This story is told in an accessible way using avatars to represent the authors communicating fascinating facts, as well as wisdom that has been passed on from Aboriginal elders. As the walk begins, remarkable information about animals and plants is shared, as well as where and how to find bush foods. There are numerous stories included that have been passed on from Aboriginal elders, such as one about the Willie Wagtail who calls out to alert people to be aware of their surroundings and possible dangers in the area, for example snakes.
This book is brimming with facts, including details about an ancient tree that can survive fires and cyclones. There are stories and observations, such as the meaning of different animal calls such as the Mistletoe bird’s call which indicates that the green plums are ready for eating. There are interesting facts about the way vines, plants and trees are used to create items such as rafts, canoes, medicines and soap. There are also warnings about which animals to watch out for and others to carefully listen to. The book includes much wisdom from elders about signs to watch for from country and how to interpret what country is alluding to about weather and seasonal changes. For example, the blooming of flowers indicates that it is time to begin burning the woodlands and rock country.
This stunning picture book highlights the riches and beauty that Kakadu has to offer which can be truly appreciated when one keenly observes and listens to the surroundings. Emma Long’s striking, vibrant ink and watercolour illustrations are mesmerising, full of life, movement and illuminate the double page spreads. They include mini scenes that have been extracted from a picture to show remarkable detailing. This is an inspiring story to invite exploration in your own backyard and to listen carefully, watch closely, use your sense of smell, have a curious mind, ask questions and deeply respect country just as Indigenous people have for many thousands of years.
The language in this book is Kundjeyhmi, one of several language groups of the Bininj people. This language is embedded within the text by using colour for the Kundjeyhmi words accompanied by an illustration of the word referred to. At the back of the book is a glossary with a list of Aboriginal words from the Kundjeyhmi language, their English translations and the page in the story where the word appears.
This book is the first of a proposed series of three titles.
Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander Resource
