Within the pages of this fascinating picture book, we follow a journey through a monsoon forest in the Top End’s Kakadu National Park. Diane Lucas and Bininj chef Ben Tyler’s text, along with Emma Long’s illustrations, weave together a story that shares their wisdom and passion for this ancient region in an accessible and vibrant manner.

As they wander through the monsoon forest, Lucas and Tyler introduce readers to the stories of the local flora and fauna in Bininj Culture, as well as teaching us Kundjeyhmi words. Kundjeyhmi is one of several language groups of the Bininj people. This sharing of language is presented in such a smooth and clever way throughout: the Kundjeyhmi words are highlighted within the text in bright colours alongside an image of the referenced item, and the English word is also located nearby in the corresponding colour. This is all supported by a glossary found at the back of the book.

Presented in such a way that allows young readers to learn as they enjoy, this is a story that encourages respect for and harmony with nature. For ages 5+.

Claire Atherfold is the manager and the children’s book buyer at Readings State Library.