7 Picture Books to Learn About First Nations Cultures

There are so many incredible picture books by First Nations authors that can teach us all – young and old – about Australia’s rich history, cultures and proud people, and help us imagine a better future. Here, we’ve put together a list of some insightful picture books by First Nations authors that are both educational and beautifully presented.

Nedingar: Ancestors by Isobel Bevis, illustrated by Leanne Zilm

A young child wants to meet their Ancestors. They want to know them, and learn from them and follow their ways. Their mother gently explains that they have already met their Ancestors, yesterday, today and tomorrow, and that they are everywhere in Country, walking close behind them. This lyrical, dual language picture book from two debut Noongar creators celebrates the beauty of Country and family.

Ages 0+.

Buy a copy of Nedingar: Ancestors here.

Welcome to Our Country: Walk With Us by Adam Goodes and Ellie Laing, illustrated by David Hardy

Walk With Us is inspired by the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and invites readers to find out more about the First Nations Country where they live. From Australian of the Year Adam Goodes, former journalist Ellie Laing, and Barkindji illustrator David Hardy.

Ages 4+.

Buy a copy of Walk With Us here.

Bidhi Galing by Anita Heiss, illustrated by Samantha Campbell

Powerful and moving, Bidhi Galing (Big Rain) celebrates the Wiradyuri heroes of the Great Flood of Gundagai in 1852, told through the eyes of a young girl who is rescued from the raging floodwaters by her father. Anita Heiss’s powerful text, accompanied by Samantha Campbell’s evocative illustrations, is a gift of Wiradyuri culture, knowledge and language, sharing a resonant message for our times.

Ages 3+.

Buy a copy of Bidhi Galing here.

The First Scientists by Corey Tutt, illustrated by Blak Douglas

Corey Tutt is the founder of DeadlyScience, an organisation encouraging First Nations kids to get involved in STEM at school and pursue careers in the field. The First Scientists is a wonderful exploration of Indigenous knowledge and what it can teach us about the world of science, from astronomy to ecology and land management.

Ages 7+.

Buy a copy of The First Scientists here.

The Trees by Victor Steffensen, illustrated by Sandra Steffensen

Take a walk with Uncle Kuu in this picture book about caring for Country and respect for Indigenous knowledge. Featuring stunning artwork by Sandra Steffensen, The Trees is a powerful and timely story to help future generations manage our landscapes and ensure that they thrive. This book is the follow-up to Victor Steffensen’s Looking after Country with Fire, which explains Aboriginal burning practices for children.

Ages 5+.

Buy a copy of The Trees here.

Sharing by Aunty Fay Muir and Sue Lawson, illustrated by Leanne Mulgo Watson

Sharing is the third picture book in a wonderful series (following Respect and Family) that introduces young readers to important First Nations philosophies, such as the power of sharing with others.

Ages 3+.

Buy a copy of Sharing here.

Young Dark Emu by Bruce Pascoe

Young Dark Emu is Bruce Pascoe’s young readers’ edition of his ground-breaking book Dark Emu. This picture book version introduces fascinating concepts of Indigenous history, housing, land management and more to a younger audience in a digestible way.

Ages 10+.

Buy a copy of Young Dark Emu here.

Also, check out the fantastic work from The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) – an independent charity supporting literacy programs in remote Indigenous communities across Australia. You can purchase beautiful books written and illustrated by Indigenous children and adults living in remote Communities and learn more about ILF here. Donations are warmly received.