Our birds by Siena Stubbs
Magabala Books, 2018. ISBN 9781925360981
Our Birds is the ideal book for any bird lover. It is all
about the birds of North East Arnhem Land and uses the photographs
taken by the author who was 12 at the time. Each bird is named in
English and Yolnu - the local Indigenous language - making it a
great way to connect with this ancient culture. It is also the
author's culture.
Readers will learn interesting facts about each bird and view
detailed photographs. Read about the Nerrk and its yellow crest or
the Bilitjpility and its beautiful colours. Did you know the Yolnu
people know when it is the season to hunt for Gurrunatji by
listening for its honk at night? Did you know the Nama' is related
to the pterodactyl?
The facts and personal connections to each bird are easy to read as
well as interesting and educational. Our Birds is a good
read as well as a way to observe Australian birds. It is also
inspirational for all young, budding writers and photographers,
making the book a great model for English and Science lessons.
Kylie Kempster