Come Together is a heartwarming, debut picture book for children aged 5+ from pop artist Isaiah Firebrace, inspired by his petition to the Australian Government calling for Aboriginal history to be taught in every classroom.
In this essential book, Isaiah, a Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara man, establishes a foundation of First Nations knowledge with twenty key topics. Alongside bright and contemporary illustrations by Mununjali and Fijian artist Jaelyn Biumaiwai, Isaiah connects us to each topic through his own personal story and culture, from the importance of Elders to the Dreaming.
Come Together is the kind of book I’ll be recommending to everyone I know. On a personal level, Isaiah opens the picture book by expressing that growing up, he wasn’t taught very much about his beautiful, traditional culture nor his ancestors. And so begins a charming, educational and exciting journey of discovery for all.
With twenty key topics covered in this nifty picture book, I was eager to learn everything I could. As you read everything from clans and languages to caring for Country, you’ll feel your knowledge expand as you dig deeper into the history and culture of First Peoples. For me, I was fascinated to learn about Songlines and how they’re a musical map and soundtrack to the land. It was also interesting to discover that First Nations Cultures don’t follow the European seasons, but rather look to the changes in mother nature and watch the stars; there are six seasons in Victoria, where Isaiah lives.
Overall, the essence of this picture book is encapsulated through Isaiah’s closing words: “In communities across Australia, there are all sorts of beautiful shades and colours. No matter what is on the outside, we share the same spirit and come together as one family.”
At once accessible and engaging, Come Together will make every Aussie kid proud that we are home to the longest continuing culture on Earth! This would make a great addition to classrooms and a great gift for the upcoming season.
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