Wilam: A Birrarung Story; Aunty Joy Murphy & Andrew Kelly, illustrated by Lisa Kennedy

As the sun rises, the eagle takes flight into the sky whilst down below the Yarra River slowly begins its long journey to the bay. As the rains fall, water trickles over earth and gathers in creeks and in turn these creeks and tributaries become part of the river and eventually it is as one. And this one is Birrarung, the Yarra. Birrarung is alive with life. Plants and animals call it their homes, for others it is a fleeting visit - maybe to nest, to roost, to hibernate, to search for food. The Birrarung is a bringer and a giver of life.

The emotive language and and double page spreads tell the story of the river as it winds its way from the central highlands to the bay. Together, these words and pictures encapsulate a day in the life of the Birrarung. There is something very magical about this book. The use of the Woiwurring language gives the text an air of mystery and magic and the illustrations are simply wow. Each double page spread is a work of art and every new read is an opportunity to spot something new. A wonderful glossary gives context to the Woiwurring language that features throughout the story.

The contributors to the book are people who have the Yarra River close to their heart and their connection with the river is what makes this book so special. Aunty Joy is a Senior Aboriginal Elder of the Wurundjeri People of Melbourne, Andrew Kelly grew up in South Yarra and is the Yarra Riverkeeper and Lisa Kennedy has first-hand experience of the importance of a river to people having witnessed restoration of the natural environment of the Maribyrnong River and feels strongly connected to the Wurundjeri People.

A wonderful journey along the Yarra River. The pages are filled with poetic text and the lush artwork is drenched in fauna and animals.

Recommended for 7+.