Giinagay Juluum, Hello Mountains (Melissa Greenwood, ABC Books)

Following the success of Miimi Marraal, Mother Earth, and Miimi and Buwaarr, Mother and Baby, the latest picture book by Melissa Greenwood (Giinagay Gaagal, Hello Ocean) is a vivid storytelling of nature’s wonders. Giinagay Juluum, Hello Mountains is an invitation to use the senses to explore Country with curiosity and respect. With the mountains and the ancestors watching over a family, they take note of all the changes they see while spotting animals, plants, waterways, and tall peaks along the way. Greenwood’s lyrical writing and knowledgeable remarks make for a beautiful way to spread the wisdom passed down to her from her Elders. The vibrant illustrations and harmony of colours and contrasts confirm Greenwood’s keen eye for art and beauty. The artist, who recently launched a high-fashion women’s collection with her hand-painted designs, is Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Dunghutti on her matriarchal side. The book includes a Gumbaynggirr translation and is perfect for children of all ages as a read-aloud or independent read, as well as educators and librarians interested in the environment and First Nations cultures and languages. It will also inspire those seeking to implement grounding techniques with children, such as going for a walk in nature and describing the surroundings by tuning in to the senses.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Nadia Heisler is a CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) writer with a background in journalism and a passion for children’s books. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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