Presented in three parts – Seedlings, Cinders and Sprouts, with titled poems, it speaks of Land, bushfires that rage through the country, many caused by the lack of traditional back burning to limit undergrowth, renewal, family life, community, teachings of Elders, and caring for Country and each other.
It is written with the inclusion of Gundungurra words, of which there is a list of interpretations at the end of the book. To a great degree autobiographical, Kirli Saunders uses Bindi’s voice to describe many daily habits, her surrounding area, the animals that share it, dreams for the future, hockey, her animals and family.
Each of Bindi's siblings comes with their own gift; a calling. They have a place in life and honour the responsibility this carries. For the three children, every day is a new adventure. The beauty of this is revealed through the verse.
Like Bindi’s descriptions on what inspires her painting, each poem is a sweep of the brush. Moving, visual and expansive in a minimal way, the stunning prose allows readers to be observers of the joyous and heartbreaking scenes she experiences.
Winner of the 2019 Western Australian Premier’s Book Awards, and the Daisy Utemorrah Award, Kirli was also named the 2020 NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year. The Incredible Freedom Machines and Kindred are her previous publications.
Dub Leffler‘s breathtaking illustrations have brought him great success. The author of two children’s books, he is currently illustrating his 25th title.
Presented in a beautifully designed gift book, with a stunning cover, this interesting verse novel is a must for your book collection.
Title: Bindi
Author: Kirli Saunders
Illustrator: Dub Leffler
Publisher: Magabala Books, $16.99
Publication Date: 11 November 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781925936667
For ages: 10+
Type: Verse Novel
