3 Reasons Why You Should Read Kimberley Kickers #1: Jy Goes for Gold by Carl Merrison and Hakea Hustler, Illustrated by Samantha Campbell

What’s the book about?

I’m about 35 metres out from the goal and, running on instinct, I do a snap kick of the ball. I watch as the footy flies through the air.

Will it bend enough?

I can hear the roar of the crowd but my focus is on that red ball. It flies through the big white sticks.

It’s a goal!

I’m Jy Farrar and the dream I had to play professional Aussie Rules footy since I was a kid in outback Halls Creek has finally come true.

Let me tell you the story of how I got here – about my mates, my family, growing up in the Kimberley around the bush and the red dirt and spinifex and goannas, playing footy and going to boarding school far away from home.

Recommended for: 

Ages 8+.

Three reasons to read it: 

1. Kimberley Kickers #1: Jy Goes for Gold features a diverse cast of characters who reflect the multicultural fabric of modern Australia. Jy, our hero, is an Indigenous Australian child, and readers follow him as he explores his identity, community, and aspirations to become a professional football player.
2. Samantha Campbell’s illustrations capture the energy and excitement of Aussie Rules footy, as well as the emotional nuances of Jy’s experiences. Campbell’s art incorporates elements of the Kimberley region and Indigenous cultural motifs such as depictions of the unique natural environment with Kimberley’s distinct flora and fauna.
3. Apart from a strong range of diversity, the book integrates elements of Indigenous Australian culture and traditions, offering readers a window into a rich heritage. For example, Indigenous cultures often emphasize strong community ties. The support Jy receives from his community is an integral part of his football journey.

Buy a copy of Kimberley Kickers #1: Jy Goes for Gold here.

About the author:

Carl Merrison is a respected Jaru/Kija man who came WA runner up Australian of the Year – Local Hero in 2016. He worked for over ten years alongside Aboriginal youth as a mentor and coach in education, AFL and community. Carl, along with co-writer Hakea Hustler, is an award-winning author of the books Black Cockatoo (CBCA Young Reader Honour Book), Tracks of the Missing, Dirran, Beautiful Night, Loved You Then and My Deadly Boots.

Hakea Hustler is an experienced teacher who has taught around Australia including in remote Aboriginal communities. Hakea believes in the power of stories for empowerment, learning and change. Hakea, along with co-writer Carl Merrison, is an award-winning author of the books Black Cockatoo (CBCA Young Reader Honour Book), Tracks of the Missing, Dirran, Beautiful Night, Loved You Then and My Deadly Boots.

Samantha Campbell is a children’s book illustrator and graphic designer. She is descended from the Dagoman people and lives in Mparntwe (Alice Springs) with her family. She draws from inspiration from her childhood growing up in remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.