Kep Barna: Water Creatures by JAYDEN BOUNDRY, illustrated by TYROWN WAIGANA, is the second entry in the ‘Noongar First Worlds’ series.
Read on for an interview with Jayden on the magic of discovering water creatures, big and small.
MEET JAYDEN BOUNDRY
What inspired you to write Kep Barna: Water Creatures?
My old people and my community always inspire me to be able to share language. Understanding the language of this land is an important way to understand the culture of this place and to connect with it. When we speak Noongar, the country understands this rhythm, if you listen carefully, you might just hear the rhythm too.
How did you choose which water animals to include in the book?
I chose some of these animals because they have a special connection to me and my family. I also chose some of these animals because they are what you see when you are out on country near the bilya/river and the wardan/ocean so that you can use this language in day-to-day life.
What role do you hope this book plays in helping families connact with Noongar culture and language?
I hope this book connects families to country and they can start to learn about this place more deeply and understand how special and important it is so that we care for country.
What has been the most rewarding part on working on this book and the Noongar ‘First Word’ series?
It’s been so rewarding getting to see a lot of young fellas and their grown ups getting involved and learning Noongar language together. I love hearing about people’s nieces or nephews picking up the book and they play games together and learn language. The inter-generational learning and enjoyment is something really special. I also love hearing the stories from my community about young people using and being creative with Noongar language.
Can you tell us about any other projects you are working on?
I’m excited for our next edition of the ‘Noongar First’ words book to be released, Worl Barna which focuses on birds and other creatures of flight. You’ll also be able to see me on-screen in a new Stan Original film Whaleshark Jack. I’m also working on some exciting ideas to share more Noongar language to support the Noongar ‘First Words’ series.
Discover the first book in the series Boodja Barna: Land Creatures here.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Jayden Boundry is Wadjak Balardong Noongar and Badimaya Yamatji. He is a Noongar language teacher and cultural consultant, didgeridoo player, traditional dancer and storyteller with Ngalak Nidja.
Tyrown Waigana is a Wardandi Noongar (south-west cape country) and Ait Koedhal (Torres Strait Islander) multidisciplinary artist and graphic designer.
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