An exquisitely illustrated story that masterfully introduces children to Indigenous philosophies.
Aunty Fay Muir is a Boonwurrung Elder committed to sharing stories from her First Nation culture. Sue Lawson is renowned for her collection of children’s and young adult titles, among them the YA book Freedom Ride, which was shortlisted for the CBCA Book of the Year, Younger Readers, in 2016. The talented writers have come together to create the acclaimed Our Place series, which introduces children to important parts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Sharing is book three of the series, following 2020’s two releases: Respect and Family.
Written on Wadawurrung and illustrated on Darug people’s lands, Sharing welcomes children to the Indigenous philosophy of taking only what you need. It also presents other cultural elements such as cleansing spirits with water, weaving baskets with tall grass, and using ochre for ceremony, stories, and art. The story sensitively and masterfully explores concepts such as the significance of caring for Country and giving back—universal themes that can educate children of all backgrounds.
Like the other two books in the Our Place series, this is a visually stunning work that contains easy-to-read text against vibrant, colourful, and stirring illustrations. Leanne Mulgo Watson, a Darug woman from the Booroborongal people of the Dyirabun, the Hawkesbury region of New South Wales, perfectly captures the essence of the story with authentic artwork that showcases Aboriginal culture.
Sharing is a wonderful addition to the series and would make a special gift for children who are starting to read themselves or who love being read to.
Reviewed by Vanessa Elle
Instagram: @vanessaellewrites
Distributed by: Magabala Books
Released: November 2021
RRP: $24.99
This review is the opinion of the reviewer and not Glam Adelaide.
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