Library News | Junior School
We have displayed some powerfully emotive picture books in the Library this week that highlight the importance of Reconciliation Week. One of the books; Finding Our Heart; A story about the Uluru Statement by Thomas Mayor is an age appropriate picture book that helps explain the issues of the past when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people had their lives turned upside down with the arrival of Captain Cook. The book calls for action, asking for the voices of the First Nations people to be heard. The book offers practical ways to help ‘Find our heart’ such as; Knowing what First Nation you live in and acknowledge the Traditional Owners often; Learning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander words in different First Nation Languages; Learn about the different Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander seasons; Read books and watch shows by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. More information about this can be found at www.ulurustatement.org. Gregg Dreise’s new picture book Common Wealth is relevant for older readers. Dreise advocates for the reader to listen to the Indigenous story of the past so that we can make a difference for the future. Dreise uses slam poetry as a way of promoting unity. He ends the book with “Now I’m hoping that you are wishing, that more and more people take a moment to listen; and join in our mission, and break down the barriers of division… by discussing without ammunition; a willingness to listen…to a true common wealth vision.” These two books are available for borrowing, along with many other recent Indigenous stories. We have many Gregg Dresie books in the Junior School Library for borrowing, and more information about this author can be found at https://www.greggdreise.com.au/
Eric Carle, a favourite author and illustrator passed away last week on 23 May, at the age of 92. His picture books have been educating and entertaining children (and adults) since 1967, when he collaborated on his first book Brown Bear, Brown Bear; what do you See? He went on to write and illustrate 70 books and sold 145 million copies. His most popular book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar published in 1969 has been translated into 66 languages and sold over 50 million copies. The Library set up a display of some of his work and asked the boys which was their favourite Eric Carle book. Not surprisingly, The Very Hungry Caterpillar was the most popular. More information about Eric Carle can be found at his website https://eric-carle.com/
Nikki Bowden | Teaching and Learning Librarian
