This week is National NAIDOC week!
In the first week of July each year, celebrations are held across the country to honour the history and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about and commemorate one of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
One of our favourite ways to celebrate NAIDOC week is by reading books that surround Indigenous culture. Here at QBD Books, we are constantly expanding our range of First Nations titles, embracing the rich tapestry of cultures that make up Australian society.
If you want to read along with us, we have compiled a list of some of our favourite titles:
“Wylah: The Koorie Warrior” by Richard Pritchard and Jordan Gould
Grounded in culture and inspired by First Nation’s history, this story follows young Wylah. When her family is stolen by a dragon army, she must find the courage to save them. She is brave, strong-willed, and clever – but what will it take for her to become a warrior?
“Ceremony: Welcome to Our Country” by Adam Goodes, Ellie Laing, and David Hardy
From Australian of the Year Adam Goodes, co-writer Ellie Laing, and Barkindji illustrator David Hardy, “Ceremony: Welcome to Our Country” is a joyful celebration of family and culture that introduces First Nations history to children. It warmly invites you to celebrate the rich traditions of dance, community, and caring for Country.
“Somebody’s Land: Welcome to Our Country” by Adam Goodes, Ellie Laing, and David Hardy
This accessible picture book for young children introduces First Nations history and the term ‘terra nullius’ to a general audience. “Somebody’s Land” is an invitation to connect with First Nations culture, to acknowledge the hurt of the past, and to join as one community with a precious shared history as old as time.
“Somebody’s Land: Welcome to Our Country” by Adam Goodes, Ellie Laing, and David Hardy
This accessible picture book for young children introduces First Nations history and the term ‘terra nullius’ to a general audience. “Somebody’s Land” is an invitation to connect with First Nations culture, to acknowledge the hurt of the past, and to join as one community with a precious shared history as old as time.
“Our Home, Our Heartbeat” by Adam Briggs
Written by Adam Briggs, “Our Home, Our Heartbeat” is a celebration of past and present Indigenous legends, as well as emerging generations. At its heart, this incredible book honours the oldest continuous culture on earth.
“Sorry Day” by Coral Vass & Dub Leffler
Two stories entwine in this captivating retelling of the momentous day when the
then Prime Minister of Australia, Kevin Rudd, acknowledged the sorrows of the past
and said ‘Sorry’ to the generation of children who were taken from their homes. Including foreword from Lee Joachim, this book was the Winner of the 2019 CBCA Eve Pownall Award for Information Books.
Happy reading!
