21 Feb Growth in Australian Indigenous Language books
Despite facing significant challenges, there is a growing movement to revitalize and preserve Indigenous languages globally, with increased efforts in education, community initiatives, and technological advancements contributing to a positive trend in the number of speakers and language usage, particularly through initiatives focused on intergenerational transmission and community-led language programs
Did you know:
- That Australian indigenous languages are available in books for kids in specific communities?
- First Nations bilingual children’s Board books and picture books are available to anyone interested directly from the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.
- These books are available in English as well as an Indigenous language such as Dhurga, Pitjantjatjara, Tiwi and Wirangu.
ngayawanj bagan-nggul ngayawanj barra barra-nggul (we belong to the land, we belong to the sea)
Vincentia High School with Kirli Saunders and Jaz Corr. Paperback, rrp: $24.99, Childrens/Teenagers. Language: Dhurga and English.
bagan, barra barra, mirriwarr (The Boys Who Found Their Way)
by Tyran Uddin and Kayden Wellington with Kirli Saunders and Jaz Corr.Hardback, rrp: $24.99, 24 pages. Children’s picture book, ages 7-12. Language: Dhurga and English.
Yaltji Ngayuku Papa? (Where’s My Dog?)
written and illustrated by the students of Tjuntjuntjara Remote Community School with Stewart Ennis and Ange Leech. Hardback, rrp: $29.99,44 pages, Children’s picture book, for ages 3+. Language: Pitjantjatjara and English.
Ngirringirri Kirijinga Japalinga (Shining Little Star)
written by Pirlingimpi FaFT families and bubs. Translated by Marie Simplicia (Simpy) Tipuamantumirri and Ian Williams. Board Book, rrp:$14.99, 16 pages, Picture storybook ages 1-4. Language: Tiwi and English
Where’s my Minya Marlu?
by Mia Speed. Board Book, rrp: $14.99, 16 pages, Picture storybook ages 1-4. Language: Wirangu and English.
The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (lLF) is a national charity working with remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities across Australia. They are Community-led, responding to requests from remote Communities for culturally relevant books, including early learning board books, resources, and programs to support Communities to create and publish their stories in languages of their choice.
Main Image:
The Moon Story
written and illustrated by Marshia Cook, some illustration by Tamua Nuggett. Hardback, rrp: $24.99, 24 pages. Picture book, ages 3-8. Language: Dhurga and English. Language: Kriol (Kimberley) and English.
Books available now from the ILF online shop and some good book stores.
Search for talented Gumbaynggirr artist Melissa Greenwood’s books on our site for example:
New picture books written by Aussie authors for the under three’s
