There are some beautiful recently released picture books to share with children (and adults) that are created by very talented First Nations authors and artists, and we don’t want you to miss out on discovering them. Here are some of our favourite recent First Nations picture books:

A Kunwinjku Counting Book by Gabriel Maralngurra

Accompanied by illustrations drawing on traditional Kunwinjku art, each of the twelve entries of this counting book showcases a different animal of West Arnhem Land. From crocodiles and echidnas to wallabies, children and adults alike will enjoy learning the Kunwinjku names for numbers and animals, the animals’ habitat and behaviour, and what they mean to the Bininj people.

More than just a counting book, this is also a beautifully illustrated work of art, a tribute to the Bininj people, and a fascinating guide to Northern Territory ecology.

A stunning art picture book for ages 5 and up.

Miimi Marraal, Mother Earth by Melissa Greenwood

From Gumbaynggirr artist Melissa Greenwood, of mother-daughter art and design label Miimi and Jiinda, comes a deeply felt and heart-stirring picture book about the connection between mothers, babies and Miimi Marraal, Mother Earth. Our reviewer, Dani, calls this book ‘a lyrical blessing to read to your baby’.

A heartwarming picture book for ages 2 and up.

Ceremony: Welcome to our Country by Adam Goodes, David Hardy and Ellie Laing

Joyful and full of fun, Ceremony: Welcome to our Country invites you to celebrate the rich traditions of dance, family, community and caring for Country from the world’s oldest continuous culture.

This is a fun and simple introduction to a traditional ceremony for young children.

A celebratory picture book for ages 2 and up.

The Dunggiirr Brothers and the Caring Song of the Whale by Aunty Shaa Smith with Yandaarra

This picture book tells the traditional stories of the mid-north NSW coast. This is the story of the Koala Brothers, the Dunggiirr Brothers, how they saved the local community and the ceremony done to keep that knowledge alive.

Written by Aunty Shaa Smith and the local community, this is an important story of the Gumbaynggirr people.

A creation story for ages 6 and up.

Animals All Around Us by Melanie Hava

Discover the animals of Australia through the incredible artwork of Aboriginal artist Melanie Hava.

The All Around Us series is a captivating collection of first concepts board books, told through simple narrative.

Suitable for ages 1 and up.

Numbers All Around Us by Rachael Sarra

Count your way through the incredible artwork of Aboriginal artist Rachael Sarra.

The All Around Us series is a captivating collection of first concepts board books, told through simple narrative.

Suitable for ages 1 and up.