Just So Stories

Allen & Unwin

August 2023

ISBN:9781760526207

Publisher:A&U Children’s

Imprint:A & U Children

RRP: $27.99

We have come to know Trace’s books as eloquent and evocative explorations of important themes, with a deep connection to nature and to country. This new one is, I think, my favourite so far as it narrates the interconnections of a small community and, in turn, the reverence and restoration of the environment.

It is a stand-alone companion novel to Landing with Wings, and once again features Miri, who will continue to charm readers with this new adventure. Miri’s neighbours are a wealth of traditional knowledge, and do all they can to live in harmony with country, as caretakers in the time-honoured way.

Miri’s friend Wingo helps with the animals they have rescued (though Miri thinks of these as pets, at first) and when an abandoned emu egg is found by Wingo’s ranger dad, everyone is tremendously excited to watch as it incubates, hatches, and Barramal {Djarra for ’emu’) becomes a favourite with all, and particularly Miri. But wild things are not pets, as Miri discovers, and it is a hard thing indeed to eventually part with her special friend.

There is so much more to this graphic novel than that storyline however, and readers will be fascinated to see how this small community lives at ease with their natural surroundings and each other. Themes of connectedness, breaking down barriers (how timely at this moment in our national history!), kindness, generosity, sharing, wildlife, and living in full respect of country are paramount, and will provide endless opportunities to expand on these in a classroom or library setting.

Like Trace’s other books, it won’t be the easiest ‘read aloud’ as there is so much detail on every page including the annotated illustrations, which thoughtfully inform as to the variety of species found in this locale, but I could easily see myself spending weeks on exploring this text with a group of children. I spent much time poring over each page, and I know that your readers will happily do likewise.

I consider this a must-have for any collection and can definitely suggest creating a unit of work around it (and I might just do that). My highest recommendation to you for your able readers from around 10 upwards.