A groundbreaking new children’s book is reviving First Nations language by bringing the nations cold-blooded creatures into the spotlight in a way that has never been seen before.
‘Deadly Reptiles,’ written by acclaimed Kamilaroi author Corey Tutt, has merged fascinating facts about over 60 reptiles, with traditional names and the rich cultural knowledge of Indigenous peoples.
By naming the cold-blooded creatures in language, the book is working to preserve First Nations languages in the process.
While speaking at the official book launch at Taronga Zoo on Friday, Tutt said the book was an opportunity to introduce the broader community to the intricate knowledge that Indigenous people have had for thousands of years.
“It’s about telling the true history of our reptiles … Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have been caring for our reptiles and have had this knowledge for millennia” Mr Tutt told NITV.
“If young, non-Indigenous kids grow up loving, understanding and respecting our culture, they’re going to respect our people more and it’s going to lead to better outcomes for us.”
The book stands as a first-of-its-kind, educating young readers about the diverse world of reptiles, while honouring the Indigenous names and cultural connections to these creatures.
The introduction of the reptiles’ traditional Indigenous names, obtained via extensive consultation, make the publication a historic endeavour in the preservation and revitalisation of First Nations languages.
Through vibrant illustrations and captivating facts, Deadly Reptiles delves deep into the lives of these creatures, offering children a fresh perspective on some of the deadliest and most fascinating animals in the country.
“Through this process, the journey of me connecting through culture was so much more meaningful than the physicality’s of it, it was inept in me as a person… That’s how we are, we connect with our land so deeply,” illustrator Ben Williams said.
“Deadly Reptiles isn’t just about science; it’s about embedding First Nations culture into broader Australia.
Director of Education, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Paul Maguire, said the book has so far been a success, with plenty of copies being sold via the Taronga Zoo retail facilities, as well as being used in school programs and as a learning resource for teachers to reference.
“We have used First Nations naming conventions before, but the depth of Corey’s research has been a standout for us across the whole country.
“To be able to tap into their knowledge and connections with community has been a game changer for us… It is a really powerful learning tool,” Mr Maguire said.
“It’s the book I wish I had as a kid, and a way of making our cultures and languages accessible to everyone… If you can see things through different lenses, you’ll become a more well-rounded person,” Mr Tutt told NITV News.
By reflecting Indigenous cultures in a format that First Nations children can relate to, Deadly Reptiles provides a unique opportunity for children to see their culture represented in a way that is both engaging and informative.
