Reviewed by Wendy Lipke
This book is another beautifully presented hard-covered children’s book about Dreaming stories. Presented by First Nations’ people, these books share the stories and knowledge passed down from generations to generations.
The information in this particular book is presented by Uncle Bud Marshall who shares information of the land around Nambucca Heads. The reader is invited to travel up the river to come into Dreaming with the narrator who tells of the activities of his people especially those around fishing. He explains the best time for this activity by reading the flora in the area and how his people prepared for their activities. He says that his purpose is for everyone to follow in the footsteps of his ancestors and be part of Yildaan, his Dreaming track.
He tells the reader that ‘Everything has a reason to be on this earth’.
The narration is then handed over to Aunty Shaa who shares a story about a young man who did wrong and became an owl and how two sisters made the sand and the sea in this area.
Each page illustrates, in bright colours, the text being shared. They are presented on glossy paper which make them vibrant. Aboriginal words within the text are explained and a QR code is provided for readers who would like more information about this book.
Though some of the illustrations are sketches, the majority are pictures taken in the area. The double page spread at the beginning of the book shows a photo of the area with figures from Aunty Shaa’s story superimposed. The one at the back of the book shows circles of photos of people enjoying the celebration of the running of the mullet fish.
Young readers are told to listen to these stories and how they must do the right thing and have respect. If they do these things, all will go well for them. They are left with the statement that Yildaan, the Dreaming track means a world of plenty and togetherness.
This is a lovely book, beautifully presented with wise advice. It would be a good addition to any classroom or library.
Yildaan Our Dreaming Track
(2025)
by Uncle Bud Marshall with Yandaarra
Illustrated by Hannah Smith and Elaine Carmady
Allen & Unwin
ISBN:978-1-76118-138-2
$29.99, 52pp