This is a truly beautiful book which was warmly embraced by the Year 3 class with whom I shared it. We all loved the text - which has the effect of being both soothing and gentle -and the children loved guessing the meaning of the words in language used throughout.
Kirli's lyrical and poetic words are so superbly matched by Dub's visually eloquent illustrations. We were all entranced with our close examination of them, and the chosen palette of subdued colours not only evokes the colours of the bush, but further added to the sense of calm our reading conjured up.
Mother and puggle echidna wander through the pages as the narrator explains the meaning, depth and wisdom of the chosen Dreaming. Many will think that there is only one Dreaming in First Nations culture, without realising that for each nation or language group there will be both similarities and differences across the traditional stories.
One thing in common however is the paramount importance of the love and respect for Country. This is a concept which all Australians should take on board and, indeed, more and more non-Indigenous citizens are beginning to deepen their connection with the land.
It is without doubt one of the most emotive picture books I've seen this year and, certainly, one that is valuable for our sharing of cross-cultural perspectives. I highly recommend it to you for your readers from as early to Prep right up to upper primary, where it will do much to promote understanding and respect.
It is without doubt one of the most emotive picture books I've seen this year and, certainly, one that is valuable for our sharing of cross-cultural perspectives. I highly recommend it to you for your readers from as early to Prep right up to upper primary, where it will do much to promote understanding and respect.
Title: Our Dreaming
Author: Kirli Saunders
Author: Kirli Saunders
Illustrated by: Dub Leffler
Publisher: Scholastic Australia, $24.99
Date of Publication: August 2022
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781742995113
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book
Date of Publication: August 2022
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781742995113
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book
from Kids' Book Review https://ift.tt/c6vbkgp
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