Just So Stories

Allen & Unwin

June 2024

ISBN:9781761067860

Publisher:A&U Children’s

Imprint:A & U Children

RRP: $29.99

Many will already know the magnificent book Walking in Gagudju Country: Exploring the Monsoon Forest, and now there is an equally stunning companion book, coming from the same multiple award-nominated creative team.

Look into these lush green bushes.
We might find something . . . There is alyurr!
Kakkak Kapindi, my mother’s mother, told us alyurr are the Lightning people’s children. When the rains begin, they come out of the soil. As they grow, they shed their skins and their bright colours are revealed. Soon they will find a mate.

Once again Diane and Ben take us exploring the wonders of the multi-faceted Kakadu landscape, and along the way , they introduce Kundjeyhmi language, one of the Bininj Kunwok languages of Kakadu and western Arnhem Land.

While the earlier book took readers on a journey of discovery around the waterholes and tropical forest, this one focuses on the wild, rocky landscape, its wildlife, plants and special features, all described in both English and Kundjeyhmi. Emily Long’s exquisite illustrations are, again, something over which to pore and wonder with so many small details to discover.

Tiny illustrations accompany the words in language throughout the book as well as in the double-page glossary. And the glorious endpapers feature an endangered bird species at the front, and an endangered plant at the back – wonderful! So this is not just a visual feast but another immersive learning experience for your readers.

Whether it’s learning about the animals, birds, plants or places, whether walking the tracks, climbing the rocks or swimming in the pools, this will be an experience your kiddos will relish from start to finish. While they do so, they will also be developing a respect for country and nature. While your Smalls will certainly enjoy the illustrations and spotting creatures, this is really most suited to older students who will fully appreciate the nuances as well as the factual narrative.

Highly recommended for readers from around 7 years upwards. 🐍🦘🦋🦎🦇 big 5 rating for this beauty!