Going for Pippies (Wilaaran Hunter Laurie, illus Tori-Jay Mordey, Magabala)

Going for Pippies is a joyful celebration of First Nations culture created by debut Yaegl author Wilaaran Hunter Laurie and established Torres Strait Islander illustrator Tori-Jay Mordey (Our Flag, Our Story). This charming picture book follows a young boy and his family as they head out for a day on Country to dig up pippies for their dinner – a cherished cultural practice and a fun family tradition. Laurie’s text is simple, rhythmic and full of warmth, making it ideal for readers aged 3–9 or shared reading with an adult. A highlight is the ‘pippie dance’, a playful sequence where the family ‘squish their feet into the sand, then dig in their heels … and twist their hips’, bringing a sense of movement to the story. Mordey’s vibrant, expressive illustrations are a perfect match for the story, rich with expression and texture. Her art captures the delight of a day at the beach and the closeness of family, while also highlighting the deeper cultural significance of passing traditions and knowledge between generations. Going for Pippies is an engaging, authentic and visually stunning book that will be a rich addition to the shelves of homes, classrooms and libraries, with teacher’s notes available.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Emma Nield is a Community Library Assistant in country South Australia and an avid reader who loves matchmaking people with the perfect story. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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