Say hi to Mr Beaky. He lives on Taungurung Country in Victoria, speaks three languages - English, Taungurung and Budgie - and unlike his many wild budgie friends who have yellow and green feathers, his are blue and white. Even though he might look a bit different he is still a native bird, just like Aboriginal people are still Aboriginal despite their differing appearances because it is in their ‘murrup’ (soul and spirit). Mr Beaky has an important message about what it means to be an Aboriginal person in Australia…
Written in both English and the author’s indigenous language, An Important Message from Mr Beaky is another fantastic addition to the rapidly growing collection of books for young children that educate about the First Nations and connection to Country. A descendant of the Taungurung people; master weaver, traditional dancer and bushtukka woman Cassie Leathem is passionate about giving young people the opportunity to learn and understand Aboriginal culture and children will be rallying behind her blue-feathered budgerigar.
The adorable Mr Beaky is wise and his considered words need to be heard. Through his eyes, children are introduced to First Nations cultures and will learn and understand what it means to be an Aboriginal person in Australia - the longest continuing civilisation in the world.
Important messages abound in this thoughtful and informative picture book. Everyone looks different - Mr Beaky is testament to this - but what is important is the soul and spirit that we all carry within. Raising future generations that are informed about respecting Elders, the connection to Country, heritage, belonging and identity will hopefully have outcomes of understanding, acceptance and reconciliation. Books like this are a vital part of that journey and the charming titular character is a fantastic advocate that will not only steal the hearts of young children but delivers words that they will want to remember.
Delightful back matter includes ‘Budgie Business’ with some interesting facts on these birds and their importance to Aboriginal people, a helpful glossary and further information about Cassie and her feathered-educator Mr Beaky. Recommended for 4+. With huge thanks to Wild Dog for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.
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