Just So Stories

UQP

April 2024

ISBN: 9780702266355

RRP: $26.99

As soon as I saw this book, I wanted to review it as I knew it would be both beautiful and poignant. I’ve not been to Hopevale or Woorabinda, only as far as Cairns, but I know people who have both been and worked there. I have though, been to Cherbourg a number of times so have some experience of what mission life was, and the legacy from those institutions and times.

I read about Wanda’s life history and her long-standing as an artist and master weaver, a significant elder in her community and her collaboration with Magpie Goose to create her gorgeous designs for use in their range. I also knew from reading and from long-time knowledge in Queensland education that there was connection with the Lutheran church, and naturally, from my own experiences with the Lutheran community I was drawn to learn more of Wanda’s life and work.

This vibrant and joyful book takes readers to a time when Wanda and her family would holiday at the beach in the short two weeks they had as respite from the hard work at the mission farm. Our kiddos think life is tough at times, but when you share this book with them, they will quickly realise that for Wanda and many hundreds of other children like her, life was real drudgery, with very little joy in it.

Yet, despite all that, there is no echo of any bitterness in Wanda’s recounts of those times, and the joy expressed in receiving those second-hand dresses is both palpable and touching.

This NAIDOC week is a good opportunity to introduce some new reflections to your kiddos (well, ok, any time is a good time but significantly when the focus is on our First Nations people...).

There are teaching notes for you to cherry pick but I would strongly suggest you look to some of the several First Nations educator sites, to which I have referred several times, to get some authentic and meaningful input into your program (e.g. Koori Curriculum or Wingaru), but also seek out your local mob and ask for support in your teaching.

There are too many people feeling afraid to embed cross-cultural learning for fear of offending but it’s quite simple really – just ask and use reputable sources. I loved the book, Wanda’s narrative and her artwork.

In the meantime, I think many people will already have this (I have a feeling it went into SO??) but if you don’t – get it! You really won’t be sorry! I’m giving it a 5 👗👗👗👗👗 all the way.