Duncan Smith, Nicole Godwin
Listen
Listen, and you will hear the voices of Ancestors.
Listen.
And you will hear the voices of Ancestors.
Speaking to us.
Guiding us.
Leading us on the path to knowledge of culture, of Country.
To reconciliation.
Listen.
Wild Dog Publishing, 2023
Listen encourages the reader to reflect on the importance of listening and truth-telling in response to Australia's complex history. The poetic writing style creates a rich and respectful text, and the bright colours inject a sense of joy into a text that explores what is often a painful history.
The use of traditional First Nations techniques reinforces the longevity and importance of a culture that has lived on Australian land for over 65,000 years.
We Are Australians
For those born in Australia, it’s easy to take citizenship and its responsibilities for granted. But there is much more to being an Australian citizen than having a passport and the right to vote.
Wild Dog Publishing, 2022
We Are Australians encourages reflection and for readers to look further into the topics of citizenship and the role of Australia’s First Nations people.The poetic writing style creates a rich and respectful text, and the bright colours add a joyfulness and a sense of celebration. The use of traditional First Nations techniques reinforces the longevity and importance of a culture that has lived on Australian land for over 65,000 years.
“Its brief words evoke deeper meanings, ones that will be conveyed through discussion and sharing of stories, as children learn of the First Nations people, here for over 65,000 years, living alongside other migrants to this country. The spare words are enlarged by the luminous illustrations, offering large swathes of colour on each page, interspersed with dot paintings, images of many people of this country, working together, singing, dancing, painting and telling stories. The face on the front cover stares out at us, inviting us in, ready to share a story. And what a story there is to tell.”
About the Authors
Duncan Smith OAM was born on Wiradjuri Country. He spent his younger years learning his culture and painting with his Elders and members of his family. Elders in Duncan’s community took him hunting and gathering, and taught him cultural dances.
Nicole Godwin is a multi-award-winning author who shines a light on environmental, animal rights and social justice issues through captivating picture books. Her books engage readers and help to create a generation of thoughtful, committed and compassionate individuals.
About the Illustrator
Jandamarra Cadd is a Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Warung descendent. Painting has been a way of life that has enabled him to express his creativity and story telling. Jandamarra uses a variety of styles and mediums; with his unique blend of traditional aboriginal art techniques along with his own signature contemporary portraiture.
