The power of storytelling: 6 picture books that celebrate Indigenous Australian culture

The power of storytelling: 6 picture books that celebrate Indigenous Australian culture

For our youngest Australians, hearing stories aloud accompanied by pictures, is the perfect way extend their understanding of Indigenous culture. We’ve put together six picture book recommendations for your little readers.

The Naked Boy and the Crocodile edited by Andy Griffiths

In a collection of 13 stories from a series of workshops held with children in Indigenous Communities, The Naked Boy and the Crocodile allows readers to immerse themselves in the Indigenous spirit. With stories of angry mamus, emu egg hunts, berry picking, motorcycle rides, and more, you’re sure to be taken on a wild adventure.

Kick with My Left Foot by Paul Sedan and Karen Briggs

This story about determination, resilience, and strength was produced through the Indigenous Literacy Foundation’s Emerging Indigenous Picture Book Mentoring Project. Kick with My Left Foot follows the story of a young boy and his dog learning the basics of Aussie Rules, showing how never giving up on what you set your mind to can help you reach your dreams.

Possum and Wattle: My Big Book of Australian Words by Bronwyn Bancroft

More than 100 words about Australian animals, plants, and landscapes – from blossoms and bees through wombats and willy willys, the most prominent aspects of Australia’s beautiful landscape are detailed here. Lavish illustrations range from small vignettes to expansive narrative landscapes and both captivate and celebrate the uniqueness of Australia and its language.

Ten Scared Fish by Ros Moriarty

This is an animal counting book with a difference!  Following the river to the sea, the reader meets and counts the animals until finally ten little fish meet a big scary shark! Bold illustrations and a delightfully playful text help readers familiarise themselves with prepositions as well as animals and numbers.

Warnayarra: The Rainbow Snake by Lajamanu School and Pamela Lofts 

This story is based on a story told by the children at Lajamanu School, a bilingual school where Aboriginal children are taught to read and write their own language, Walpriri. Illustrator Pamela Lofts (Koala Lou, Wombat Stew) adapted the illustrations from original paintings done by the children for their story.

Sam’s Bush Journey by Sally Morgan and Ezekiel Kwaymullina, illustrated by Bronwyn Bancroft

Sam doesn’t like the outdoors and would be happy if it all disappeared. But when he goes to stay with his grandmother, he learns that the outdoors has an abundance of things to offer. Sam’s Bush Journey is brimming with themes that will promote discussion amongst young readers: journeys, the environment, storytelling, Aboriginal knowledge of the bush and intergenerational knowledge. 4-8 readers

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