The danger seed: A story from Karajarri Country by Liz Thompson

cover image

Pearson Australia, 2011. ISBN 978 1 4425 4694 3.
(Age: Junior primary to be read to; Upper Primary and lower secondary for research). Well recommended. This book follows the pattern of Djulpan and has all the positive features mentioned there. This story is set 170km south of Broome in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Topics for discussion surround the 'government ration days'. The story of the danger seed, a type of acacia, is important to these people who believe that if one of the seeds is dropped the person will be punished. In this book the children's colourful and detailed paintings are large and often cover half the page. The soft wash background adds to the beauty of the pages and the book. Again, the voices of the children and elders, often different and always personal, gives the reader a sense of authenticity. The glossary and index are very helpful. This is another beautifully presented book, delightful to read and to research.
Sue Nosworthy

booktopia