Published by Simon & Schuster on 2023
Genres: Picture Book
Format: Hardcover
Source: Personal book collection
Author Anita Heiss and illustrator Samantha Campbell share the story of the Great Flood of Gundagai in 1852 in Bidhi Galing (Simon & Schuster, 2023)
This narrative non-fiction picture book introduces Wagadhanny, her family, and her community during the bidhi galing, the big rain, that flooded Gundagai in 1852. It describes this historical event including details of the indigenous people in the area and the role they played in trying to warn the European settlers of the dangers of the river, and in rescuing stranded settlers as the flood waters rose.
The text incorporates Wiradyuri names and words (with a glossary at the end as a reference) with the story told from the perspective of a young Wiradyuri girl. While the event itself is interesting, for me the value of this story is that it gives a voice to the experiences of the indigenous people in the area. Our history is so often shared from the perspective of the settlers, with indigenous voices confined and restricted or ignored completely, despite their foundational role in our cultural heritage.
The story is interesting and engaging, and the illustrations appealing, but for me the highlight is the warmth and respect for country and culture conveyed in the sharing of the experiences of the Wiradyuri people. We are fortunate to have indigenous authors and illustrators who share the story of their communities, culture and country in such generous and evocative ways, and particularly to have the stories shared in formats such as picture books that help us to encourage our children to understand and value Australia’s indigenous heritage and culture.
Be First to Comment