Just So Stories

Magpie Publishers

October 2021

ISBN: 9780645178401

RRP: $19.99 Special school price: $15.99

I stumbled upon finding out about this book and was so taken by the premise that I messaged Steve and asked if I could review it for him. I am so very glad that I did. While Steve is a whitefulla, he consulted his First Nations friends throughout the entire gestation of this novel in order to make certain that everything was as accurate, culturally sensitive and had full approval of the local mob.

Steve had felt this book calling to him for over twenty years and knew that he had to write it. Such was his conviction that he gave up his job and moved to Melbourne to spend two years learning the craft of writing.

This is an historical fiction which incorporates elements of Dreaming stories, romance, adventure and drama set two hundred years ago, just as the influx of European colonisers was starting to spread into traditional Bundjalung country. But it’s not only the threat from the white people that sets the Nyangbal people on edge.

Their long peace with neighbours, living in harmony with country and lore is threatened when a forbidden love between Balagaan and Gawngan is revealed. The love story stems from their time as children but Gawngan is married to another man, and lore forbids her being with Balagaan unless Dangan releases her. A tension filled trial by spears leaves Dangan defeated but still not allowing Gawngan to be free – so we can surely hope for a sequel (?).

I love that Steve has incorporated modern language into this narrative, which makes it far more accessible to younger readers, while keeping the tone and respect for traditional ways of thinking and being.

I can easily see this being welcomed into classrooms, particularly in lower/middle secondary as a novel study with a focus on cross-cultural perspectives. It allows the reader true insight into the societal fabric of First Nations culture on the brink of being essentially wiped out. In saying that, it is also a great read for adults, and will encourage a new way of looking at traditional First Nations culture and lifestyle. Read more about Steve’s journey to publishing his book in this article from the Byron Shire Echo.

Highly recommended for readers from around 12 upwards. Buy your copy direct here from Steve’s website, www.magpiepublishers.com, or from Amazon, or can be ordered from any book shop. You might also like to check out ‘Gawngan and the Marriage Tree’ which is a short chapter picture book targeting upper primary readers. It can be bought from Amazon. Keep your eyes open for the sequel to The Magpie and The Snake – ‘Savages’ – on its way.