The Star Factory

Words By: Gowri Paary

Pictures By: Dooreen Chew

“Often, Leela would escape to the roof of the orphanage to read. Her favourite book was about a star factory. That factory had made all the stars in the universe - one for every single person. Leela had been told that her parents were in the stars, so she felt sure the tale was true”. ⠀

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This book is a magical adventure to the stars and back that touches on themes of loss, resilience and self belief. The book also includes some discussion questions at the back which is a brilliant addition. This book can be purchased from the Authors website www.bypaary.com

The Day You Begin

Words By: Jacqueline Woodson

Pictures By: Rafael López

“There will be times when the world feels like a place that you’re standing all the way outside of... and all that stands beside you is your own brave self - steady as steel and ready even though you don’t yet know what you’re waiting for”.⠀

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Such a touching story about feeling different and all the ways we can feel different - because we don’t look the same, speak the same, eat the same or go on holidays like everyone else does. It is about the day you begin to have courage to share your story and take up space in the world. ⠀

My People

Words By: Eddie Betts

Pictures By: Jesse White

“Look, it’s Eddie and the crew! We heard you rapping. What’s the news? What’s got you clapping?”⠀

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“Hey! I’m sharing facts about my people. Come, join in! Have you heard about this land and the cultural groups within? My mob are Wirangu, but there’s hundreds more. From the dessert in the middle and all around the shores. There’s Karuna, Eroa, Nyoongar - just to name a few. There’s a really cool map to find those closest to you”⠀

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This is a fun and engaging book that you can rap (if you’re young and cool - unlike me 😂) it educates young Australians about Aboriginal culture and history. The inclusion of traditional place names and how to say them makes this book extra special. It also represents characters of different backgrounds and diverse abilities beautifully. The author Eddie Betts is a well known AFL player and is passionate about literacy and sharing his culture. ⠀