More Stories from the Billabong (James Vance Marshall, illus by Francis Firebrace, Walker Books)

This is a companion title to Stories from the Billabong by the same collaborators. It is a gorgeously presented book, full of stories of the Dreamtime when Australian Aborigines believe the world was created. The tales, which come from a number of different Indigenous tribes, have been translated into print from the traditional oral storytelling format. There are 10 stories in all, including ‘How Turtle Got His Shell’, ‘Why Young Koalas Cling to Their Mothers’ Backs’ and ‘Why the Stars of the Southern Cross Shine So Brightly’. Interspersed between the stories are one-page fact sheets about various animals that live in Australia. There is also a glossary and an insight into the meanings of several commonly used Aboriginal symbols, such as the markers for shady trees and waterholes. James Vance Marshall’s words are appropriate for the middle to late primary school market, while Francis Firebrace’s vivid, earth-coloured illustrations of the Indigenous flora and fauna are detailed and beautiful. His pictures break up and decorate the text, but also fill entire pages of their own. More Stories from the Billabong is a great collection to spark conversations about culture and mythology. 

Thuy On is a Melbourne-based reviewer and the books editor of the Big Issue

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

Category: Reviews