Reviewed by Wendy Lipke
I Am Me is a hard-covered children’s picture-book produced by Mitch Tambo and illustrated by Caria Hoffenberg. In January 2026 this talented music artist will release an album of children’s music with the same title. First discovered on the finale of Australia’s Got Talent, this unique First Nations’ entertainer has provided a personal book about himself which also asks readers to consider their own culture and talents.
Throughout the book Mitch Tambo is presented as he appears on stage in his special outfits. Various aspects of his clothing are explained as to their significance to him and his culture.
The book is very personal and asks questions directly to the reader. Many words from First Nations language are explained such as words for hello, sing and dance. These are usually followed by a question to the reader, or as it shows in the book, to the children in the audience- ‘How do you say hello in your language?’, ‘Who are your people?’ and ‘Do you do special dances or wear special things?’
There are detailed explanations of how his headwear is created, what it signifies and why he has white ochre painted on his face.
Most of the illustrations are double-page spreads. There is an acknowledgement of First Nations land which shows an Australian-shaped games structure being used by many children. Another shows the entertainer in his various outfits either singing, dancing or playing the didgeridoo.
The colours in this book are vibrant with a dominance of purple, orange and peach shades. The illustrations showcase the bright and joyful artwork of another talented Australian, Carla Hoffenberg.
As well as being an interesting picture-book for children promoting the First Nation’s reverence of the land and the stories of their culture, this would also be a great promotional document for this up-and-coming new artist.
I Am Me
(2025)
by Mitch Tambo
Illustrated by Carla Hoffenberg
Allen & Unwin
ISBN:978-17611-822-04
$24.99; 36pp