Mel Brown’s memoir is of her journey to finding herself, reconnecting with her Aboriginal heritage and discovering her deeper life calling. Through every chapter in her life, what she refers to as her Dreaming, Brown details the experiences that have shaped who she is today.

Born from an unplanned pregnancy between a white father and a ‘light-skinned’ Aboriginal mother, Brown’s early years were unsettled. Her parents’ divorce ushered in a period of instability marked by violence from her mother’s subsequent partner. Amid these challenges, Brown grappled with her decision of choosing her father over her mother. Also, her Aboriginal heritage remained unacknowledged throughout her youth, fostering a profound disconnect from her cultural roots.

After enduring a turbulent relationship during her early adulthood, Brown was compelled to reconnect with her cultural heritage and discover her true calling. Her narrative sheds light on poignant moments as an Aboriginal child protection worker, exposing significant mishandling of Aboriginal welfare. Along her journey, Brown delves into unconventional pursuits such as witchcraft, clairvoyance practices, past life regression, and ultimately finding love.

Brown prefaces her story by acknowledging how unrelated the chapters of her life might seem. This is apparent as chapters alternate between conventional subjects and extraordinary supernatural and mystical themes, often without a clear connection between them. This makes for a somewhat disjointed reading experience. However, the narrative is written in a straightforward and accessible style, but requires an open mind to truly appreciate it.

Reviewed by Chandra Hazebroek

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melinda (Mel) Brown lives in Alstonville, northern NSW, Australia Mel Brown is an Indigenous author, artist and clairvoyant who has written and illustrated many popular spiritual titles. Mel has a Masters in Indigenous Healing and Trauma from the Southern Cross University in Lismore, NSW, Australia, and many years experience of working with children at risk. Acclaimed for her expertise in cultural competency and lateral violence both nationally and internationally, she draws on her personal and professional experience to work with families and organisations ensuring Aboriginal children who are unable to live at home are not excluded from cultural connection to their families. Find out more