WELCOME TO AUSTRALIAN USED HOMESCHOOL BOOKS!
AUSTRALIANA FICTION - ABORIGINES
Picture Books
Pigs and Honey (Jeanie Adams) $5 PB EC, $4 PB GC (Ex lib, minor water damage to top edge of pages) Set in the Cape York Peninsula in Arukun, North Queensland, this is a delightful tale about an Aboriginal hunting and picnic party in the bush. Everyone, from Granny and Grandad to the youngest babies, drives out into the bush to hunt wild pigs, and that night there is a wonderful feast of roast meat, wild honey and damper. In very natural and matter-of-fact language, a young boy describes the fun weekend enjoyed by his extended family. The story is authentic and deals with transition in the Aboriginal culture. Beautifully illustrated and disarmingly truthful, this excellent story makes delightful reading for all ages. 5-9 YO THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA BOOK OF THE YEAR: YOUNGER READERS http://books.buyaustralian.com/featuredbook1.asp?StoreURL=buyaustralian&bookid=9781862910508&db=CO
Kuiyku Mabaigal: Waii & Sobai (Aidan Laza) $2 PB EC (Ex lib) A traditional children's story from the Torres Strait Islands about the warrior society that existed in Australia's northern islands before the coming of the missionaries. Gorgeous illustrations. 6-10 YO http://www.flipkart.com/kuiyku-mabaigal-waii-sobai-aidan-book-1875641408
The Little Black Princess (Mrs. Aeneas Gunn) $5 HB VGC The story of the 8 year old Aborigine who took refuge with Mrs. Aeneas Gunn whilst living in the outback. She called Bett-Bett the “Little Black Princess,” who stayed a while, learns a little, laughs much, wonders much and finally decides to go bush again. A charming picture of Northern Territory life and Aboriginal ways have made this an Australian classic. Lovely colour illustrations with specially selected and adapted episodes from the book for children. 7-10 http://thehungrybookshelf.com.au/gunn-aeneas-little-black-princess-hardcover-1983-edition-1633
Idjhil (Helen Bell) $4 HBDJ EC (Ex lib) A beautiful story about an Aboriginal boy of the Western Australian Nyungar people who is taken from his family. Based on a true story, the text includes Nyungar words provided by Cedric Jacobs. Illustrations are evocative of the Australian bush. A few are pencil sketches, but most are full-page, earth-toned, chalklike works. 6-10 YO http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51J1ZGCVMZL._SL500_AA300_.jpg
The Goori Goori Bird: A Legend of the Bidjara People of the Upper Warrego (Grahame L. Walsh – University of Qld Press) $5 HB VGC A retelling of an Aboriginal legend from Queensland in which the child-stealing Goori Goori bird meets his match in the boy Wangurd and the punishment for his misdeeds creates the Milky Way. 5-9 YO http://cgi.ebay.com.sg/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250763151726
Goanna’s Point Of View (Margarette Thomas-Cochran) $3 PB EC Jo and Beni, a young Aboriginal boy go for a picnic at Broken Bay where Goanna awaits new visitors from which to beg a meal. After trying to chase the insistent goanna away, Beni hears the steady thrum of the didgeridoo and sees his grandmother dragging Goanna by his tail through the scrub. He also sees the sinewy smoke from a cooking fire, curl its way up through the branches of a bloodwood tree. Great pictures. 4-9 YO
The Day The Mountains Played (Judith Wright) $3 HB VGC Two little Aboriginal boys Darri and Cobadong live in the Sunshine Coast area before white man came and they hear the story of the Glasshouse Mountains: wise Tibrogargan; Coonowrin with the crooked neck; the twins called Tunbubudla; little Ngun Ngun; and Beerwah the king of them all. Lovely illustrations. 5-10 YO
Wurradi Wondee & The Dancing Brolgas (Sue Maytom, illus Lionel Doyle) $4 HB EC (Signed by author and illustrator) Three little Aboriginal boys set out to look for a dog in the back yard and have a major adventure in the city. They meet up with their uncle and grandfather in the city gardens and discover that Uncle Lonny is to play a major part in making music for the dancing brolgas which have come to celebrate the arrival of the summer rain. Wonderful illustrations! 6-10 YO https://www.greaterglider.com.au/books/wurradi.html
Banana Bird and the Snake Men (Percy Trezise) $5 PB EC The Snake Men were a tribe of the Cape York wilderness whom Aboriginal legend has it that were able to turn themselves into kangaroos. Whilst out in the bush they meet a tribe of the Bird Men intent on taking home a kangaroo for dinner. 4-9 YO
The Quinkins (Percy Trezise) $5 PB VGC, $4 PB GC (Ex lib) This Aboriginal Dreamtime story of the Yalanji tribe of the Cape York area tells of the attempt by an Imjim Quinkin to steal Moonbi and Leealin from their family, by imitating their father's voice. The author of many books for children telling the ancient myths and legends of the aboriginal people and illustrating them with his own paintings. These paintings are gorgeously coloured and highlight not only the tribes in the stories, but also the landscapes on the Cape in which they live. Each is an artwork in its own right, worthy of framing! Highly recommended series! 4-9 YO AUSTRALIAN PICTURE BOOK OF THE YEAR http://meanjin.com.au/spike-the-meanjin-blog/post/does-anyone-remember-the-quinkins/
Turramulli The Giant Quinkin (Percy Trezise) $5 PB VGC Two children of the Yalanji people are pursued by Turramulli, the largest and fiercest of the spirits roaming the bushland. The author of many books for children telling the ancient myths and legends of the aboriginal people and illustrating them with his own paintings. These paintings are gorgeously coloured and highlight not only the tribes in the stories, but also the landscapes on the Cape in which they live. Each is an artwork in its own right, worthy of framing! Highly recommended series! 4-9 YO http://www.amazon.co.uk/Turramulli-Giant-Quinkin-Percy-Trezise/dp/0006619428
Lasca And Her Pups (Percy Trezise) $5 PB EC It's over 40,000 years ago and Lasca's puppies are about to be born. True to her nature as a dingo, she leaves her human friends Ngalia and his little sister Mayli, and goes to the creek to dig a den. However there is always danger for dingo pups from Thylacine, the striped wolf. The author of many books for children telling the ancient myths and legends of the aboriginal people and illustrating them with his own paintings. These paintings are gorgeously coloured and highlight not only the tribes in the stories, but also the landscapes on the Cape in which they live. Each is an artwork in its own right, worthy of framing! Highly recommended series! 4-9 YO http://beta.oztion.com.au/oa/oa_previewpic.aspx?itemid=10323275&picnum=1&#pic
Land Of The Brolga People (Percy Trezise) $5 HB EC (Ex lib) Jadianta, Lande and Jalmor have been stranded across the great lake, Balanorga. This story finds them in the Land of the Brolga People. As their journey continues they discover the spectacular Rainbow Serpent and fall into an adventure with a giant snake named Wonambi. The author of many books for children telling the ancient myths and legends of the aboriginal people and illustrating them with his own paintings. These paintings are gorgeously coloured and highlight not only the tribes in the stories, but also the landscapes on the Cape in which they live. Each is an artwork in its own right, worthy of framing! Highly recommended series! 4-9 YO http://www.wheelers.co.nz/books/9780207199462-land-of-the-brolga-people/
Land Of The Snake People (Percy Trezise) $6 HB BRAND NEW The story of the journey home of three Kadimakara children, as they travel through the land of the Snake People with their new companion, Wongabel. Has a glossary and map attached to the inside back cover which pulls out to show the region the stories are based. The author of many books for children telling the ancient myths and legends of the aboriginal people and illustrating them with his own paintings. These paintings are gorgeously coloured and highlight not only the tribes in the stories, but also the landscapes on the Cape in which they live. Each is an artwork in its own right, worthy of framing! Highly recommended series! 4-9 YO https://products.schools.nsw.edu.au/prc/booklist/listBooksByTitle.html?letter=L&levelId=2
The Owl People (Percy Trezise) $5 PB VGC Tells the legend of the Owl People who made their camp on the banks of the Palmer River in far North Qld and who later found their mopoke grandmother who was boss of a huge dog that was a big as a bullock. The dog joins the owl people in their hunting, and that's where the trouble really began. The author of many books for children telling the ancient myths and legends of the aboriginal people and illustrating them with his own paintings. These paintings are gorgeously coloured and highlight not only the tribes in the stories, but also the landscapes on the Cape in which they live. Each is an artwork in its own right, worthy of framing! Highly recommended series! 4-9 YO
The Rainbow Serpent (Percy Trezise, Dick Roughsey) $5 PB EC Set in Dreamtime,
this Aboriginal legend of the Creation follows the serpent Goorialla on his
journey across Australia, where he creates birds, animals, plant life and
geographical features. The author of many books for children telling the ancient
myths and legends of the aboriginal people and illustrating them with his own
paintings. These paintings are gorgeously coloured and highlight not only the
tribes in the stories, but also the landscapes on the Cape in which they live.
Each is an artwork in its own right, worthy of framing! Highly recommended
series!
THE CHILDREN'S BOOK COUNCIL OF
AUSTRALIA PICTURE BOOK OF THE YEAR. 4-9 YO
http://www.amazon.com/Rainbow-Serpent-Dick-Roughsey/dp/0001850164
Stradbroke Dreamtime (Kath Walker) $5 HBDJ VGC Kath Walker spent her childhood with her family on Stradbroke Island, off the Queensland coast. The first half of this book, Stories From Stradbroke, describes episodes from her childhood days - some happy, some sad - and gives a memorable impression of Aboriginal life on the island and of a family proud of its Aboriginal heritage. The second part of the book, Stories From The Old and New Dreamtime, is made up of Aboriginal folklore which the author recalls hearing as a child, and of new stories written in traditional Aboriginal forms. Includes tales such as Kill To Eat, Going Crabbing, Carpet Snake, Family Council, Dugong Coming!, Biami And Bunyip, Mirrabooka, The Midden, Wonga And Nuda and many more. 7+ http://www.oztion.com.au/oa/oa_previewpic.aspx?itemid=10186040&picnum=1&#pic
Songs Of The Dreamtime Painted By Jack Wunuwun $4 HBDJ EC Presents an ancestral Aboriginal creation story of the Murrungun/Djinang clan, Miwirnbi, Northern Territory. 31 paintings by the late Jack Wunuwun tell the story, whilst his son reveals the many levels of meaning contained within them. Today, his son leads members of his clan in song and dance when this story is celebrated in the Morning Star Ceremony. In addition to the vibrant artwork, there are colour photos. 10+
Jirrbal: Rainforest Dreamtime Stories (Yarrcali Barlow) $4 HB EC (Ex lib) Jirrbal Rainforest Dreamtime Stories are witty and wise moral fables from the tablelands of Northern Queensland. They are traditional, as told to generations of young people for thousands of years, and as told to the author Maisie (Yarrcal) Barlow herself, when she was a child of the rainforest. The animal characters have been brought to life in breathtaking simplicity, full of lively personality and charm, by Michael (Boiyool) Anning. The last chapter tells about growing up in the rainforest country. Traditional language words of the Jirrbal people are included. Suitable for readers 6 to 10 years old but a treat for all ages. http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51vlBMbYtHL._SL500_AA300_.jpg
Tales Of The Dreamtime (K Langloh Parker, illustrated by Walter Stackpool) $2 HB VGC A collection of Dreamtime legends adapted by Vashti Farrer and including: How The Sun Was Made; The Fire-Makers; The Rain-Maker Wirinun; A Legend Of The Flowers; Bohra The Kangaroo and The Black Swans. Accompanied by wonderfully vivid and colourful paintings by well-loved Aussie artist Walter Stackpool, this will be sure to delight the younger student of Aussie history. 6-11 YO http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Tales-Dreamtime-Parker-K-Langloh-/140437442486
Why The Emu Can’t Fly (May L. O’Brien) $2 PB VGC This story was told to generations of children by the Wongutha people who lived in Kalgoorlie district of Western Australia and is unique to this location. Find out how emu loses his ability to fly due to his vanity and independence. Gain an appreciation of Aboriginal culture and language through the lovely illustrations and Aboriginal words used in the book. Pronunciation Glossary at the back of the book. 4-8 YO http://www.applebybooks.net/si/004365.html
How Crows Became Black (May L. O’Brien) $2 PB GC (Inscription & light cover creases) One of a series of stories told in memory of the Wongutha people of outback Western Australia. These stories were told to the children so they would come to understand their land, their people and their beginnings. They help today's children understand the aboriginal past as well as the present. Designed for 6-11 year olds, these titles have evocative pictures that help tell the story. http://www.peoplelearn.com.au/index1.html
The Magic Fire At Warlukurlangu: A Dreaming Narrative (Edited by Christine Nicholls) $2 PB EC (Ex lib – RRP $13.95) When an old man tricks his sons into believing he is blind, he triggers a series of tragic events, culminating in a terrible bushfire. 4-8 YO http://www.workingtitlepress.com.au/paperbacks.html
The Spotted Cat: A Dreaming Narrative (Edited by Christine Nicholls) $2 PB EC (Ex lib – RRP $13.95) An evil monster is terrorising the land and the people are afraid. The Spotted Cat knows he must act quickly. But what can he do when he is so small and the monster is so big? http://www.workingtitlepress.com.au/paperbacks.html
How The Animals Came To Australia (Adapted from an Aboriginal legend by Peter Davison) $4 HBDJ VGC A re-telling, with vibrant illustrations, of the Aboriginal dreamtime legend of how animals arrived in Australia. Wunnamurra and Noorengong are two small Aboriginal boys who learn the indigenous ancestral legend of how animals came to Australia. Lovely pictures, an Aussie gem! 5-10 YO
Warnayarra – The Rainbow Snake: An Aboriginal Story (Compiled by Pamela Lofts) $2 PB EC (Ex lib) Tells the story of the Rainbow Snake and of the Warlpiri people, who were forced off their land and later settled the Lajamanu community. Although they were in unfamiliar territory and forced to adapt to a new lifestyle, the people's culture and traditions helped them to adapt and stay strong. This story, told and illustrated by the children of Lajamanu, is an example of the strong storytelling tradition of the Aboriginal people. It will appeal to, and educate, children of all cultures. 4-8 YO http://www.abc.net.au/messageclub/good_reading/s1074723.htm (Cover different)
Rainbow Bird: An Aboriginal Folktale From Northern Australia (Eric Maddern) $4 HB EC "I'm boss for Fire," growls rough, tough Crocodile Man, and he keeps the rest of the world cold and dark - until one day clever Bird Woman sees her opportunity and seizes it… This traditional aboriginal fire myth from Northern Australia, simply retold and lit by glowing illustrations, will delight children and parents everywhere. The cover positively zings with vibrant citrus colours, and the illustrations inside the book are even zingier... A dramatic, beautiful book with a satisfyingly right ending. 5-9 YO http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rainbow-Bird-Aboriginal-Nothern-Australia/dp/0711208980
Chapter Books & Novels
On Country: Stories of Nyrlotte (Fiona Doyle) $4 PB EC (Ex lib) A beautiful collection of childhood memories brimming with adventure, family relationships and customs set on Cape York. The story revolves around Nyrlotte, a mischievous and enquiring young, Alngith girl who lives with her extended family on Wik country. Nyrlotte’s generous and wise granny helps keep her safe from danger, while teaching the inquisitive Nyrlotte about her culture and traditions. Nyrlotte’s journey is one of discovery, a little naughtiness and a lot of love from Granny and Daddy Old Man. 7-11 YO http://www.booksdirect.com.au/images/0702235458.jpg
Me and Mary Kangaroo (Kevin Gilbert) $4 HBDJ EC (Ex lib), $3 PB VGC The wonderful childhood reminiscences of the Aboriginal poet Kevin Gilbert, his family and his very special pet kangaroo Mary. There are many charming stories of how he and Mary hid their treasures including pennies and threepenny bits in Mary’s pouch till Dad was surprised by the jangling coming from Mary’s pouch as she hopped around; how a group of savage dogs attacked Mary and her struggle to fight them off; and the special friendship between Mary and Darlin’ (as Kevin Gilbert was called as a child). The stories have a spontaneity which would make them a delight to read aloud. They are also very revealing of the love and caring in this Aboriginal family set in the 1920s or 1930s in Australia. Lovely sepia photographs by Eleanor Williams add to its attractiveness. SHORTLISTED FOR THE 1995 AUSTRALIAN MULTICULTURAL AWARD. 6-11 YO http://www.qbd.com.au/product/9780140323146-Me_And_Mary_Kangaroo_by_Kevin_Gilbert.htm
Piya (James Porter) $5 HBDJ VGC (A little damage to jacket), $4 PB VGC After a terrifying cyclone and tidal wave, Piya, a young Aboriginal girl, is washed ashore on a tiny island off the North Queensland coast. She is found and cared for by Len Scott, a lone writer who has made the island his home. But Len can't prevent Piya from being rounded up with other Aborigines scattered by the storm and taken to a harsh government reserve. Filled with a fierce independence and pride, Piya is determined to be free. 11+ SHORT-LISTED FOR THE AUSTRALIAN MULITCULTURAL CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARD http://www.worldbookmarket.com/images/books/00001/14479.jpg
Daughter of Two Worlds (Audrey Oldfield) $5 HBDJ EC Melalla always had been different. Even her hair was different. The rest of her tribe had dark hair, but hers was a shining gold. She was descended from red-headed Tim McGhee, who entered the tribal territory many years before and founded the cattle station on which Melalla was born. She happily played with the children of the Big Boss, not conscious of any difference between black and white. To save her from being married off at 11 years of age, the wife of the Big Boss sent Melalla to a Mission School and later she went to a Perth high school where she slowly became aware of the puzzling differences between black and white and the vicious discrimination that lived there. 10+ http://cars2.ebay.com.au/DAUGHTER-OF-TWO-WORLDS-by-AUDREY-OLDFIELD-1979-HBDJ_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQitemZ290352728813QQViewItemTabZshipping
Boori (Bill Scott) $4 PB GC Based on Aboriginal folklore of the Kabi and Wakka people of Queensland, this is a tale of high adventure, the central character, the young Aboriginal warrior, Boori. 11+ THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA HIGHLY COMMENDED BOOK http://cgi.ebay.com.au/BOORI-Bill-Scott-Aust-Aboriginal-Story-VGC-Compelling-/300386198335
My Girragundji (Meme McDonald & Boori Monty Pryor) $2 PB VGC Alive with humour, this is the vivid story of a Boori’s growing up between two worlds. With the little green tree frog as a friend, the bullies at school don't seem so big anymore. And Girragundji gives him the courage to face his fears. 10+ WINNER, BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR YOUNGER READERS, CHILDREN'S BOOK COUNCIL BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS 1999; SHORTLISTED, BEST CHILDREN'S BOOK, QUEENSLAND PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS 1999; COMMENDED, BEST DESIGNED YOUNG ADULT BOOK, AUSTRALIAN PUBLIS http://www.bookaholics.com.au/product_images/y/1864488182__03047.jpg
Njunjul the Sun (Boori Monty Pryor) $4 PB EC (Ex lib) A 16-year-old Aboriginal boy leaves his family and home for the big city, and as he struggles to make sense of his experience he realises that he must have the knowledge of his own people and culture in order to know who he is, and to find his direction. THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA SHORT-LISTED BOOK 11+ http://www.allenandunwin.com/default.aspx?page=94&book=9781865086415
The Binna-Binna Man (Boori Monty Pryor) $4 PB VGC (Ex lib) The powerful story of an Aboriginal teenage boy who is caught between the attractions of city life and the ways of his people. After a terrifying encounter with the Binna Binna man he knows what he must do in order to be true to himself. 10+ http://www.allenandunwin.com/default.aspx?page=94&book=9781865080710
Malanbarra (Romayne Weare) $4 PB EC (Ex lib) In the rugged country of North Queensland Rosa and Cally are on the run from police who want to take them from their mother. 11+ http://images.bookdepository.co.uk/assets/images/book/large/9781/8756/9781875641369.jpg
Bahra Bay (George Watt) $4 PB VGC A grazier’s daughter goes missing, last seen in the company of her Aboriginal friend. The white community doesn’t have to think about where to lay the blame; the black community move instinctively to protect their own. Set in North Queensland on a station at Bahra Bay, where the Murray people live and work. 11+
Wild Cat Falling (Colin Johnson) $2 PB VGC This book was a major breakthrough when it was initially published in 1965, hailed as the first Aboriginal novel. Colin Johnson, as Mudrooroo was then known, wrote what is still a disturbing story, not least of all because almost forty years after its first appearance, and the improvements in Aboriginal conditions and rights that have occurred, the book still resonates far too strongly with the less than satisfactory current life conditions of a number of indigenous Australians. It’s the story of a young Aboriginal man who takes on white society, believing it to be against him. This losing battle develops due to racism he has encountered and ensnares him in an ongoing cycle of imprisonment-release-imprisonment. Unfortunately the protagonist discovers far too late (he is on his way back to Fremantle jail) that the major key to turning this situation around is a stronger connection with his traditional heritage. 12+ http://www.carsoncox.com/bookcover.html (Cover different)
The First Walkabout (NB Tindale -signed by author) $5 HBDJ GC Vintage treasure 1956. A fascinating adventure story of Australia in Negrito times, when our land was peopled with these little men, when Giant Man and Diprotodon roamed the forests. Based on field studies and scientific research into this far-distant period and illustrated with scientifically accurate pictures of the daily life of the Australian Negritos. 10+ THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD
Ballander Boy (Colin Thiele) $4 HBDJ VGC Binda is an Aboriginal boy who lives with his people on the wild and merciless north coast of Arnhem Land. Danny is nearly ten, a white boy whose home is in Adelaide. The two are separated by 3000 km and many centuries of tradition. When Danny visits his Uncle Bert's northern cattle station during the school holidays he finds himself caught in an adventure that brings the two boys together. Colin Thiele's charming and gentle story concerns a young boy's first encounter with the realities and hardships of the outback. David Simpon's eloquent photographs describe with exquisite sensitivity, detail, and poetic symbolism the interchange of cultures between the boys and at the same time highlight the universal bonds that link all children. 7-11 YO http://www.naturallybooks.com.au/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1213
Branded Black (Blair Ostwald) $3 HBDJ VGC A mesmerizing adventure into the expansive wilderness of outback Australia. The novel begins in 1845 within the mountains and hills of the Three Moon Valley, near Monto, Qld. This was the tribal home of the Korang Gorang tribe who for thousands of years had entwined their lives with the seasons and the environment. The ancient culture on the oldest continent, clash dramatically with the first settler to the valley, the rich Rupert Courtenay aristocrat from England. He is soon followed by the gold hungry colonials Dan Silver and Black Pat, whose desperate quest leads them to these rugged ranges in their search for the mother metal. 11+ http://www.aussiebooks.com.au/prod3145.htm
The Flying Emu And Other Australian Stories (Sally Morgan) $5 PB EC The Australian Aboriginal counterpart to the Just-So Stories--20 original folktales brimming over with life and good humour. Full of characters that embody the full range of human fallibility and appeal such as greed, vanity, cruelty, or laziness, balanced by forgiveness, courage, kindness, or love. There are creation tales, fables and trickster tales; talking animals, giants, monsters, and spirits. In the splendidly decorative art-- powerful in design and satirically funny in detail--humans are brown-skinned, but the stylized animals come in a vibrant spectrum of imaginative hues. 5-12 http://www.amazon.co.uk/Flying-EMU-Other-Australian-Stories/dp/0140381910
Aboriginal Legends: Animal Tales (A.W. Reed) $2 PB VGC A unique collection of stories for those who are interested in learning more about this fascinating culture. Learn about the powerful Rainbow Snake, red and black flying foxes, the Eagle-hawk and the Medicine-Man and many more. Traditional Aboriginal storytelling teaches us about the animal world and the spiritual bond shared between the Aboriginal people and nature. 8+ http://www.newholland.com.au/product.php?isbn=9781876334154
True Australian Tales “Tales From The Aborigines” and “Content To Lie In The Sun” (Bill Harney) $2 PB GC Bill Harney lived continually among Aboriginal people for fifty years, and these two much-loved books record many of the absorbing stories he heard and dialogues with the people he knew. By the campfire after the day’s hunt, the Aborigines loved to share the tales of bygone days. Based on this rich experience, Bill Harney reminisces about a happy and rugged life and is full of information on subjects as diverse as crocodiles and the droving days. 11+
Stories Told By My Grandfather And Other Old Men: A Collection Of Short Stories (Stan Grant) $2 PB EC (Ex lib) Stan Grant grew up in Wiradjuri country during and after WWII. The Wiradjuri are the largest Aboriginal group in New South Wales. They occupy a large area in central New South Wales, from the Blue Mountains in the east, to Hay in the west, north to Nyngan and south to Albury: the South Western slopes region. His father was a soldier in the war and at this time his grandfather was influential in introducing Stan to the Wiradjuri language and culture. The stories told in this book are a reflection of that wonderful heritage. Complete with ink sketches throughout. 7-11 YO
Songman (Allan Baillie) $4 PB VGC Yukawa sails from his tribal lands in northern Australia across pirate-infested seas to a dagger-shaped island where East and West mix and clash. Learn about the culture and lifestyle of the Australian Aborigines before the arrival of Captain Cook through the story of Yukuwa, a young boy of Northern Australia. 11+ THE VICTORIAN PREMIER'S AWARDS: ALAN MARSHALL DIABETES PRIZE FOR CHILDREN'S LITERATURE; LOUIS BRAILLE AUDIO PRIZE http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/b/allan-baillie/songman.htm
Coorong Captive (Colin Thiele) $3 PB EC A boy sails to the wilderness of South Australia's Coorong and befriends an Aboriginal boy who teaches him about the history of the indigenous people in the area. A strong reconciliation and environmental message. 10+ http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/t/colin-thiele/coorong-captive.htm
The Spirit Wind (Max Fatchen) $2 HBDJ EC (Jacket a little tattered) An adventure story with goodies and baddies, captures and escapes. Jarl Hansen jumps ship off the South Australian coast and is rescued by an Aboriginal fisherman, Nunganee, who is central to the story. THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA HIGHLY COMMENDED BOOK 11+ http://www.cornstalk.com.au/pix/65898.jpg
Kakadu Calling: Stories For Kids (Jane Christophersen) $4 PB EC Jane Christophersen, an elder of the Bunitj clan in Kakadu National Park, opens up our hearts with this wonderful collection of stories from the Australian bush. Join the adventures of Burrki, a young boy who travels across a huge landscape to find his way home, encountering buffaloes and snakes along the way. Step into Mardjibi's shoes and feel what it's like to visit the city after you have lived your whole life in the bush. 7-11 YO http://www.magabala.com/popup_image.php?pID=93&image=0&osCsid=5c7d384ff1c0a1d84bd20761d1492db2
The Girl With No Name (Pat Lowe) $3 PB VGC A girl and her family teach a white boy about their country, its ways and about family values. Matthew had set off alone to camp at Goanna Gorge. He was determined to find the Aboriginal rock paintings he knew were hidden there. But his plans fell apart when he realised he couldn't find his way back. The wild country of the Kimberley, which Matthew thought he knew so well, seemed to mock him with its secrets, until he met these people. 10+ http://www.amazon.com/Girl-No-Name-Pat-Lowe/dp/0140369538
Desert Cowboy (Pat Lowe) $3 PB EC (Ex lib) The third book in the stunning Yinti series, this book is based on the life stories of Jimmy Pike. Yinti has left his desert sand hills country to be a cowboy, working on huge sheep and cattle stations. Still a mischief-maker, he finds out all about station life and town life too. And then Yinti falls in love. http://www.seekbooks.com.au/book/Desert-Cowboy/isbn/9781875641574.htm
The Man From The Dreamtime (Thomas Roy) $3 PB VGC Jimmy Brent, age fifteen, lives with his mother on a cattle station at Princess Charlotte Bay in the remote Cape York Peninsula. They are forced to realise that they face bankruptcy in the midst of a dreadful drought. Jimmy, having grown up among the local Aborigines, loves, understands, and is accepted by them. So when the mysterious visit by the man from the Dreamtime occurs, Jimmy wonders what he must do to right past wrongs and restore peace and harmony to the settlement they share with the Oona Aboriginal people. 10+ http://cgi.ebay.com.au/The-Man-From-The-Dreamtime-Thomas-Roy-Oonaderra-Trio_W0QQitemZ320129827021QQihZ011QQcategoryZ125418QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
The Fat And Juicy Place (Diana Kidd) $2 PB VGC At the back of Jack's school there's a special place. Not even his Mum or Gran or Splinter or Fleabag or his little sister, Pest Susie, know about all the things that happen there. His Mate, Lizard, is the only he can tell. When Jack meets the mysterious Birdman, he finds out secrets about the past. There's one secret that he can't tell anyone – not even Lizard. What happened at the Fat and Juicy Place? Why does Jack need to go there? Only that old fella Birdman has the answers. THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA SHORT-LISTED BOOK. AUSTRALIAN MULTICULTURAL CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARD WINNER. SHORTLISTED, VICTORIAN PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS, 1992 SHORTLISTED, WESTERN AUSTRALIAN YOUNG READER'S BOOK AWARD (WAYRBA), 1993 http://www.harpercollins.com.au/books/9780207167867/The_Fat_and_Juicy_Place/index.aspx
The Barrumbi Kids (Leonie Norrington) $4 PB VGC (Ex lib) Best friends Dale and Tomias live in the outback of Australia's Northern Territory. They have a deep love for the wild, ancient land that is their home, and move easily between their two cultures - Aboriginal and white. But for both boys, growing up is neither easy nor safe. They get into trouble and they learn about themselves, about each other and about the wider world. 10+ THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA SHORT-LISTED BOOK http://books.boomerangbooks.com/featuredbook1.asp?StoreUrl=boomerang&bookid=9781862914964&db=au
Turtleshell (Peter Lawrance) $2 PB EC Set in the Australian outback, this novel tells of the friendship that gradually develops between an Aboriginal and a white boy as they join forces to thwart some criminals. Shaun 's life on Turtleshell Station is just about perfect - until angry young Sam moves in. But that 's nothing compared to the danger they 're about to face in the rugged hills to the north. Exciting CHRISTIAN outback fiction for ages 11+. http://orders.koorong.com/search/product/view.jhtml?code=0732410002
Echoes Of Dreaming (Ruth Homes) $4 PB EC Deep inside, sixteen year old Louisa, wrangles with questions about her life and position in her her aunt and uncle’s landholding. Why shouldn’t I have the right to choose my friends? Why does everyone condemn Aborigines? Set in turn-of-the-century rural Australia. 11+
The Silent World Of Bal-Bal (William C.F. Cowan) $2 PB VGC This captivating story begins in the Dreamtime, then gradually develops to describe the beginnings of a wonderful race of people born on this huge continent of Australia - a land subject to the climatic conditions conducive to the growth of a race of athletic, black people. Through these pages is woven an Aboriginal saga of birth, childhood and adventure. This legend of Bal-Bal was passed on to the author by an old Aboriginal, Borungi in 1919, out near Winton, Qld. 10+
Tangara (Nan Chauncy) $3 PB GC Seven-year-old Lexie, the youngest of a white Tasmanian family, finds a hidden gully in the bush where she meets and befriends Merrina, an aboriginal girl of her own age. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that their friendship mirrors that of another pair of girls a century before, and that it may have the same tragic end. Years later, when Lexie has almost forgotten, Merrina returns to help her in a last act of friendship. 9-13 YO http://www.allowaybankbooks.com.au/product.php?productid=16451 (Cover different)
The Curse Of The Turtle (Thomas Roy) $2 PB GC (Tanning) Set in the late 1800s in the wilds of Cape York Peninsula. Tajurra, of the Oona people and Jimmy Brent, of the Brent family cattle station, are close friends. Tajurra tells Jimmy that his home is built on a sacred area, a Bora ring, and that because of this, and the killing of Tajurra's great grandfather, there is curse on the property. Remarkable for its non-racist presentation of traditional culture. 11+ THE AUSTRALIAN CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA COMMENDED AWARD http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/B003Y0LB38/ref=dp_image_text_z_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Darkness Under The Hills (Bill Scott) $2 PB GC (Ex lib, light tanning) An adventure based largely on the beliefs of the Kabi and Wakka nations, who lived near the Qld coast north of Brisbane. Boori, a young Aboriginal warrior goes on a quest to bring the forces of protection against the evil spirit, Rakasha, lurking in his stronghold under the hills. 11+ THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA HIGHLY COMMENDED BOOK http://www.cornstalk.com.au/pix/65899.jpg
Walkabout (James Vance Marshall) $2 PB GC Two South Carolina children, a brother and sister, are stranded in the Australian outback after a plane crash. They encounter an aboriginal boy who is engaged in his walkabout—a six-month period of isolation as an initiation into manhood. Broader themes in the story present an initiation into tolerance and survival in an alien, hostile, and demanding world. 12+ http://www.readingmatters.co.uk/book2.php?id=107
The Burnt Stick (Anthony Hill) $4 PB GC (Ex lib, inner binding repaired) Born to an Aboriginal mother and a white father, John Jagamarra lives happily at Dryborough Station, Australia, cared for by his extended family and steeped in the traditions of his tribal culture. One day, however, the "Big Man from Welfare" comes to take him away, for, since he is of mixed parentage, the law requires that he be sent to a mission to learn the white man's ways. Liyan, desperate to keep her son, takes a burnt stick and covers his body with charcoal and soot. Her trick fools the government officials twice, but finally the five-year-old is carried off to the Pearl Bay Mission for Aboriginal Children. Years later, he returns to the Station with his own son. Though his family and all traces of the cattle ranch have disappeared, John rubs charcoal from a burnt stick into his son's skin, reminding the boy that their native background will always be part of them. The format, much like a picture book, allows ample room for Sofilas's art. His realistic illustrations amplify the text and are rendered, fittingly, in charcoal. 7-12 YO THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA HONOUR BOOK http://www.amazon.com/Burnt-Stick-Anthony-Hill/dp/0395739748
Follow The Rabbit-Proof Fence (Doris Pilkington) $4 PB GC (Minor dog ears) Following an Australian government edict in 1931, black aboriginal children and children of mixed marriages were gathered up and taken to settlements to be institutionally assimilated. In Rabbit-Proof Fence, award-wining author Doris Pilkington traces the story of her mother, Molly, one of three young girls uprooted from their community in south-western Australia and taken to the Moore River Native Settlement. There, Molly and her relatives Gracie and Daisy were forbidden to speak their native language, forced to abandon their heritage, and taught to be culturally white. After regular stays in solitary confinement, the three girls planned and executed a daring escape from the grim camp. 11+ http://books.google.com.au/books?id=j-a1yI79ijQC&dq=Follow+The+Rabbit-Proof+Fence+%28Doris+Pilkington%29&printsec=frontcover&source=bl&ots=8Sica3kbm3&sig=KkhycZEwX_N0ufTfDugtMFTB-lk&hl=en&ei=DPyNSuOcJInQtgO2maDqCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9#v=onepage&q=&f=false
Mother And Daughter (Sally Morgan) $2 PB VGC My Place for younger readers is an abridged edition, especially adapted to younger readers, that retains all the charm and power of the original. It is published as three separate books and Mother and Daughter follows the lives of Daisy and Gladys Corunna, Sally’s grandmother and mother. 11+ http://www.fremantlepress.com.au/books/indigenous/909
True Australian Tales “Through My Eyes” (Ella Simon) and “The World Owes Me Nothing” (Bobbie Hardy) $2 PB GC This self-portrait by an Aboriginal woman, told with fine irony and perception, brings into the open some of the conflicts and indignities experienced by Aboriginal people in Australia. The second story is of an Aboriginal man raised in poverty who aimed to be a gun shearer but was labelled by society as a drunk. His struggle to win the battle for his own life makes inspiring reading, as through sorrows and laughter, he regains pride in himself. 12+
The Warrigal (Deborah Lisson) $2 PB EC Ronan Morgans child is soon to be seventeen and has been away from Marridail, his family home, for four years. His homecoming should be happy but instead Ronan finds things changed for the worse. His father is caught up in a feud with a mysterious newcomer named Kendrick. This man is known by the nickname The Warrigal, an Aboriginal word meaning 'wild dog'. As a result of this struggle Ronan's father seems to have become a hardened tyrant on his own property. On top of all this Ronan, who's mother was Aboriginal, feels within him the desire to follow a path which will take him closer to the native peoples although, as the heir to Marridail, that is a course he will never be able to take. 11+ http://www.librarything.com/work/3494521
Shadows Among The Leaves (Bill Scott) $2 PB VGC Errol knows how much money can be made from developing the rainforest land and selling the blocks and wants to buy the land from Mrs Nichols. But in his greed to possess what is not his, he does not know of the ancient Aboriginal spirits who live there……..and his presence angers them. What will happen to him as he wanders lost in the very forest he wishes to buy? 10+
Gracey (James Moloney) $3 PB VGC (Light tanning on inturns) Part history, part mystery. Gracey comes home to Cunningham on holidays. Now that she is a state athletics champion everything looks different. Dougy, her younger brother, does odd jobs around the town. Raymond, the eldest, is a football star; he played A Grade in Sydney, and is doing really well for the local team, isn't he??? With themes of acceptance, and prejudice, Gracey starts querying her Aboriginality. Sad ending. THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA SHORT-LISTED BOOK http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/m/james-moloney/gracey.htm
Dougy (James Moloney) $3 PB VGC Tells the story of an Aboriginal population in a Queensland country town and the prejudiced attitudes of the white community there. Dougy's older sister, Gracey, is a State running champion who wins a scholarship to attend an elite all girls boarding school in Brisbane, fuelling deep racial tension between the blacks and the whites in the township. 11+ http://www.queenslandbooks.com/schools/01_cms/details.asp?ID=71 (Cover different)
Rainstones (Jackie French) $2 PB VGC The country Helen loves has been dry for nearly half her life. Can her entreaties to Mr Sarancen persuade him to invoke the power of the rain stones as his Aboriginal ancestors did to bring water to this parched land? 9+ THE CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA SHORT-LISTED BOOK SHORTLISTED IN THE PRIMARY AGE GROUP OF THE WAYRBAS 1992 SHORTLISTED, CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARD IN THE NSW PREMIER’S LITERARY AWARDS http://www.harpercollins.com.au/global_scripts/product_catalog/book_xml.asp?isbn=0207171246
The Rocks Of Honey (Patricia Wrightson) $2 PB EC (Ex lib) High in the rocks of Honey, according to Aboriginal legend, Warrimai the Club Thrower hid a stone axe which he believed to be cursed. Barney and his friend Eustace are determined to find the axe, but after a series of "accidents", they realize there's more to the legend than they thought. http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/w/patricia-wrightson/rocks-of-honey.htm
(Last update January, 2012)
