Reviewed by Wendy Lipke
Earth Speak is the first book by Sean McCann who lives on Noongar lands in Perth. He is a small business owner, a rope access technician and a rigger. This book is illustrated by Gamilaroi woman, Jade Goodwin. With her commitment to showcasing a range of perspectives through her illustrations, she has created a successful career.
This is a hard covered, 27x29cm, book which celebrates the natural environment of Australia. On white glossy paper the bright colours in the illustrations dominate the pages, but the double-page spreads inside both covers have more muted colours with a montage of leaves and bark.
As a family of parents and two children go on a hike, the father tells his children that if they look and listen as they go, they might hear the earth speak. He takes every opportunity to teach his children important lessons for life with every outing.
Australian flora and fauna are featured in all the illustrations which tell the story. As they walk the father explains how wind, water and fire shaped and created the land. In the text key First Nation words are highlighted.
When the weather changes the family huddle in a cave in a narrow gorge. When lightning creates a fire, the father explains how important this is for the flora of the area.
After their experience the children agree that during their hike they heard, saw and felt the earth speak.
This is a beautifully presented book which helps to spread the message of how First Nations people are so attuned to nature.
Earth Speak
(2025)
by Sean McCann and Jade Goodwin
Allen & Unwin
ISBN:978-1-76118-123-8
$26.99; 36pp